Topic Overview
What are sexual problems?
A sexual problem means
that sex is not satisfying or positive for you. In women, common sexual
problems include feeling little or no interest in sex, having problems getting
aroused, or having trouble with
orgasm. For some women, pain during intercourse is a
problem.
Most women have a sexual problem at one time or another.
For some women, the problem is ongoing. But your symptoms are only a sexual
problem if they bother you or cause problems in your relationship.
There is no "normal" level of
sexual response, because it is different for every
woman. You may also find that what is normal at one stage of your life changes
at another stage or age. For example, it's common for an exhausted mother of a
baby to have little interest in sex. And it's common for both women and men to
have less intense sex drives as they age. This is linked in part to hormone
changes in the body.
What are some causes of sexual problems in women?
Female sexuality is complex. At its core is a need for closeness and
intimacy. Women also have physical needs. When there is a problem in either the
emotional or physical part of your life, you can have sexual problems.
Some common causes include:
- Emotional causes, such as
stress, relationship problems, depression or anxiety,
a memory of sexual trauma, and unhappiness with your body.
- Physical causes, such as hormone problems, pain from an injury or
other problem, and certain conditions such as
diabetes or
arthritis.
- Aging, which can cause changes
in the vagina, such as dryness and
stiffening.
- Certain medicines that can cause sexual problems. These
include medicines for depression, blood pressure, and diabetes.
What are the symptoms?
Sexual problems can
include:
- Having less desire for sex.
- Having trouble feeling aroused.
- Not being able to
have an orgasm.
- Having pain during intercourse.
How are sexual problems in women diagnosed?
Women
often recognize a sexual problem when they notice a change in desire or sexual
satisfaction. When this happens, it helps to look at what is and isn't working
in the body and in life. For example:
- Are you ill, or do you take a medicine that
can lower your sexual desire or response?
- Are you stressed or
often very tired?
- Do you have a caring, respectful connection with
a partner?
- Do you and your partner have the time and privacy to
relax together?
- Do you have painful memories about sex or
intimacy?
Your doctor can help you decide what to do. He or she
will ask questions, do a physical exam, and talk to you about possible causes.
Some women find it hard to talk to their doctor about sexual
problems at first. Sometimes it helps to write out what you want to say
beforehand. For example, you could say something like “For the past few months,
I haven't enjoyed sex as much as I used to.” Or you could say "Ever since I
started taking that medicine, I haven't felt like having sex.”
How are they treated?
Treatment for sexual
problems depends on what is causing the problem. There may be one or more
issues causing the problems. Many sexual problems can be worked out after you
know the cause or causes.
Sex involves emotional, physical, and
relationship issues. Successful treatment requires a high level of comfort
between you and your doctor. Ideally, you and your partner will also be able to
talk openly about sexual concerns. Treatment may include treating health
problems, getting communication counseling, and learning about things you can
practice at home. For example, you might take a warm bath to relax, have plenty
of foreplay before sex, or try different positions during sex.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about sexual problems in women: | |
Being diagnosed: | |
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