Approximately 40% of women and 30% of men report that they suffer from some degree of sexual dysfunction. Despite being such a widespread issue, the National Institutes of Health has found that only a small percentage of women seek medical attention for it. While shame can play a role in this, more women need to understand that sexual dysfunction, especially as they age, is both normal and treatable.
If you suffer from sexual dysfunction, the health experts at Holistic OB/GYN & Midwifery can help. In this blog, they explain why this problem can occur, what the signs are, and some of the treatment options that are available.
Sexual dysfunction, as a whole, refers to physical or psychological problems that interfere with a woman’s ability to enjoy sex. Sexual dysfunction can occur due to a complex mix of physical and psychological factors, which can disrupt the sexual response cycle that traditionally includes excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution.
Sexual dysfunction can be classified into four main categories or signs:
The threshold for when sexual dysfunction merits medical attention is personal. If it’s beginning to worry you or affect your relationship with your partner, book a gynecological appointment at Holistic OB/GYN & Midwifery.
Sexual dysfunction most often occurs when hormones are in flux or changing. Pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and menopause can all have a role in a lower sex drive, difficulty with arousal and orgasm, and pain during sex. Lower estrogen levels after menopause, the leading cause of sexual dysfunction, can lead to any of the following:
Medical conditions, certain medicines, depression, anxiety, long-term stress, relationship issues, and sexual abuse can also lead to sexual dysfunction. Causes of sexual dysfunction are often interrelated, and you may suffer from multiple factors at one time.
Treatment largely depends on what’s causing your sexual dysfunction. For some, lifestyle adjustments, such as exercising, avoiding drugs and alcohol, or stopping smoking, can lead to success. For others, counseling and therapy may help with emotional issues that are causing sexual dysfunction. You should also be open with your partner and discuss communication, arousal techniques, and different ways to find pleasure.
Other treatments that may help include hormone therapy and medications. Hormone therapy can be taken orally or topically. When it comes to medications, there are two FDA-approved drugs for premenopausal women — Flibanserin (Addyi®) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi™) — that may help boost desire and libido.
If you’re experiencing sexual dysfunction, the team at Holistic OB/GYN & Midwifery can help. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today.
