Many women have had instances where it felt like they “lost that loving feeling.” It usually passes, and next time sex is back to normal. This temporary problem can happen to anyone, but when it becomes consistent, this is one of the signs you may be suffering from female sexual dysfunction.
We Can Only Guess At The Numbers
Statistics about female sexual dysfunction vary. The Cleveland Clinic and others stipulate 43% of women suffer from it at some point in their lives. Getting to the true numbers is difficult since it’s a topic most women would prefer not to discuss, so they don’t always talk with gynecologists about it. Most likely it is a higher number.
Sexual dysfunction includes issues with the following:
- Difficulty getting aroused, known as arousal disorder
- Low desire for sex
- An orgasmic disorder where a women cannot achieve orgasm
- Painful sexual intercourse
Let’s take them one at a time.
Arousal Disorders
Many of us can remember when getting aroused was just part of every day life and you probably needed very little encouragement. When you have difficulty getting aroused on a regular basis, this is a sign of sexual dysfunction.
In general the causes range from your medications to psychological reasons like stress and depression. It can also be caused by physical and chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Alcoholism, drug addiction, and kidney and liver problems can lead to sexual dysfunction especially arousal disorder. Prescription anti-depressants are another common cause.
One simple remedy might be longer foreplay, but don’t be embarrassed to speak to your doctor about it.
Low Desire
Many of the same factors apply here. Disinterest in sex can occur at any age, even in young women. Post menopausal women usually have issues due to changes in hormones like the reduction in estrogen. This is a natural progression and women can find help if they talk with Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Orgasmic Disorder
Let’s start by saying not every woman has an orgasm every time they have sex. Don’t expect this to occur, and don’t be worried if you don’t achieve an orgasm every time.
When this happens more often than not, this can be a sign of sexual dysfunction. Insufficient foreplay, medications, anxiety, and chronic diseases all play a part.
Speak with your physician about ways to help you overcome this issue.
Painful Sexual Intercourse
This is an obvious sign that something is wrong, but it is easily corrected. As a woman ages, the vagina loses some of its moisture and becomes dry, resulting in painful intercourse. This is a common issue for postmenopausal women.
Creams and lubricants are available everywhere to help with dryness. If that doesn’t improve the situation, there are also prescription meds.
You don’t have to live with a less than satisfying sexual experience. There are many remedies if you are open about your issue and ask for help.
Contact Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology at (205) 933-8334, or request an appointment online, if you are experiencing any of the signs of female sexual dysfunction.