Are you suffering from problems such as sexual dysfunction or a dry vagina? Perhaps you’ve been through past sexual trauma and are suffering from sexual anxiety? If so, you’re not alone; many women suffer from these problems. If you would like to get help and advice about treatments for sexual dysfunction or any other sexual or reproductive health problem, contact your gynecologist today. Patricia Nevils is a Lafayette OB/GYN who works at the Vibrant Women Health Center. She’s available for consultations and can provide treatment for issues such as infertility, menopause problems and can carry out a well woman examination.
What is Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction is where a problem is caused that stops the individual from experiencing sexual satisfaction. Problems with sexual intercourse are more common than you may think; around 43% of women experience problems as do 31% of men. Many people are embarrassed to talk about their sexual problems and, therefore, never seek help.
Luckily, there are treatments available for sexual issues, so it’s important to discuss any problems you’re having with your doctor or gynecologist. Sexual dysfunction affects both men and women of all ages but is more common among older people. This is because health problems and menopause cause people to lose their sexual drive.
The Common Causes of Sexual Dysfunction
There are many reasons why people experience sexual dysfunction, these can be both physical and psychological. If you have an ongoing health problem such as chronic pain, diabetes, or heart disease, this may lower your sexual desire. Women also lose their libido when they are going through the menopause or if they’re experiencing hormonal issues.
People who are experiencing problems such as alcoholism or drug addiction may also lose interest in sex. Loss of sex drive can be caused by some medications and is a common side effect of taking anti-depressants.
If you’re suffering from stress at work or other mental health problems such as depression or anxiety, you may not feel sexy. It’s also common for women who have suffered past sexual trauma to have psychological issues that cause sexual inhibitions. Relationship problems or feelings of guilt may also stop you from being able to enjoy sex.
Problems Women Face
Women often suffer from a lack of lubrication, and this can result in the ability to become aroused. A lack of desire may be caused by hormonal changes, pregnancy, fatigue, and stress.
Couples may become bored with their sexual routine, and this can lead to dissatisfaction in the bedroom. Many women also find it difficult to orgasm. The inability to climax is often caused by stress or guilt, past trauma, or sexual abuse in childhood. It can also be caused by a lack of experience or insufficient stimulation.
Women can also suffer from a condition called vaginismus, which makes sex painful. The muscles surrounding the vaginal may go into spasms, which cause a lack of lubrication and pain. The condition is common in women who have a phobia of penetration or fear that penetration will cause pain. This could stem from bad sexual experiences in the past, such as sexual abuse or rape, but could also be caused by performance anxiety.
Treatments
If you’re experiencing any of the above problems, talk to your doctor or health care provider who will be able to recommend treatments. If you’ve experienced trauma in the past, you may find that counseling will help.
