Sexual Dysfunction Diagnosis & Treatment

Sexual dysfunction is a common issue among women and men alike and refers to a sexual, reoccurring problem that keeps sex from being a positive and satisfying experience. Most women have symptoms of a sexual problem at some point in their lives.  Regular, persistent sexual problems (including pain during intercourse, having less desire, sexual response, or inability to orgasm) that bother a woman or cause tension in the relationship are symptoms of female sexual dysfunction.

There is a wide range of causes for female sexual dysfunction since female sexuality by nature is highly intricate and complex.  The heart of female sexuality is based on a need for emotional connection and intimacy.  In addition, women have physical needs just as men do.  Sexual response involves an intricate interplay of emotions, physiology, lifestyle, personal experiences, and relationships.  A problem within any of these components, either emotional or physical, can cause sexual problems affecting libido, arousal, or satisfaction.

Common causes of sexual dysfunction may be a result of a physical or psychological issue:

• Physical causes such as pain issues, certain medical conditions (i.e. arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, neurological diseases, kidney disease, etc.), drug abuse, alcoholism, menopause, hormone imbalances, natural aging (can cause changes in the vagina, such as dryness), and certain medications (some medications for seizures, depression, and anxiety) can disrupt normal sexual responses.
• Psychological causes such as emotional issues, guilt, fear, anxiety, stress, depression, relationship problems, past sexual abuse/rape, and body self-consciousness can also contribute to sexual dysfunction.

Female sexual dysfunction is diagnosed by further investigating any physical causes and/or evaluating possible psychological causes.  After a patient notices a change in sexual responses or desire, it is helpful for both patient and physician to assess what is and is not working in the patient’s body and life.  Is the patient ill, taking certain medication, stressed, or fatigued?  Does the patient have a caring and healthy relationship with her partner?  Does she have any trauma in her past or painful memories linked with intimacy or sex?  To diagnose female sexual dysfunction the physician will most likely begin with a physical exam and/or pelvic exam, along with a thorough investigation of the symptoms experienced.  Furthermore, the doctor will ask questions to evaluate the patient’s attitude toward sex or any other psychological/emotional underlying causes.  It may be difficult and embarrassing for a woman to discuss such private matters, but it is critical in helping the doctor understand the core issues at hand so that he/she may determine the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment for female sexual dysfunction depends on the cause and root issues.  Fortunately, most cases of sexual dysfunction are treatable, which is why it is so important to communicate concerns with both sexual partner and doctor.  The ideal approach to treatment involves a group effort between doctors, qualified therapists, and the patient.  By treating the underlying physical or psychological problems, most symptoms of female sexual dysfunction can be corrected.

Depending on the cause, effective treatment for female sexual dysfunction may involve:

• Identifying and addressing a medical condition
• Addressing a hormonal change or condition (i.e. hormone therapy)
• Minimizing pain during intercourse (i.e. exploring positions or use of lubricants)
• Prescription medication (for libido or premenopausal women)
• Changing medication that has negative sexual side effects
• Optimizing or revamping treatment for anxiety and/or depression
• Learning how to communicate openly with a partner
• Sexual education and the changes associated with aging
• Relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety (i.e. sensual massage, bathing, etc.)
• Enhancing sexual stimulation, prolonging foreplay, or changing routines

Due to the nature and complexity of female sexual dysfunction, treatment often involves more than one approach.  Please contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers.

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