Female sexual dysfunction is a broad category that includes a variety of sexual problems that hinder a woman from a satisfying sexual experience. It can be recurring problems related to sexual response, desire, orgasm, and pain. Female sexual dysfunction is a multifaceted condition that is caused by a variety of factors, including psychological, physical, cultural, and societal factors. So, To deal with female sexual dysfunction in relationships it is important to remain patient, encourage open communication, engage in non-sexual activities or activities that boost emotional intimacy, and seek medical help when needed.
Female Sexual Dysfunction – What is it?
Female sexual dysfunction is an umbrella term that consists of persistent problems related to sexual response, desire, orgasm, and pain which hinders a woman from enjoying a satisfying sexual experience. It can occur at any stage of life and can vary from a low desire to difficulty achieving orgasm and others.
It is estimated that female sexual dysfunction affects approximately 40% of women across the globe and leads to reduced quality of life.
Types of Female Sexual Dysfunction
The different types of female sexual disorders can be grouped under four primary categories. They are as follows:
- Desire Disorders: Desire disorders refer to a woman’s lack of sexual desire or interest in engaging in sexual activities.
- Arousal Disorders: Women with arousal disorders face difficulties becoming aroused, even when desire is present.
- Orgasmic Disorders: Under orgasmic disorders, women experience reduced intensity or absent orgasm during sexual activities.
- Sexual Pain Disorders: Sexual pain disorders classify the pain or discomfort women experience during intercourse. These include dyspareunia [painful intercourse] and vaginismus [involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles].
Other types include vaginal dryness, vaginal laxity, and pelvic organ prolapse, caused by factors like physical changes, medical conditions, medications, and psychological issues.
Causes of Female Sexual Dysfunction
As mentioned earlier, female sexual dysfunction is a multifaceted condition that is caused by a combination of factors: here are few common causes of female sexual disorders.
- Physical Factors
– Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can impact a woman’s sexual desire and function.
– Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurological disorders can impact sexual function.
– Medications: Specific medications like antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives can impact sexual desire or arousal. - Psychological Factors
– Stress and Anxiety: Continuous or high levels of stress can hinder sexual desire and arousal.
– Depression: Mental health disorders, especially depression, can take a toll on women’s sexual function.
– Past Trauma: Previous traumas or negative experiences can have a lasting impact on one’s sexual desire and well-being. - Relationships Issues
– Communication Problems: Unresolved conflicts or lack of healthy communication between partners can contribute to low desire.
– Emotional Intimacy: A lack of emotional intimacy in the relationship can hinder sexual function.
– Relationship Dissatisfaction: Unhappiness or overall dissatisfaction in the relationship can manifest into sexual dysfunction. - Lifestyle Factors
– Substance Abuse: Excessive use of alcohol or recreational drugs can impact sexual function.
– Lack of Exercise: Lack of exercise or a sedentary lifestyle can reduce sexual desire and energy.
– Fatigue: Chronic fatigue can also reduce sexual desire and energy. - Cultural and Societal Factors
– Societal Expectations: Societal expectations on sexuality can impact one’s confidence and comfort in expressing their sexual desires.
– Body Image Issues: Negative body image or low self-esteem can contribute to lowered sexual confidence.
Symptoms of Female Sexual Dysfunction
The symptoms of sexual dysfunction can vary according to its type. However, here are some of the common symptoms:
- Low Sexual Desire: A lack of desire or interest in sexual activities.
- Sexual Arousal Disorder: Difficulty in being aroused, even when desire is present.
- Female Orgasmic Disorder: Reduced or absent orgasm during sexual activities.
- Pain during Sexual Activities: Discomfort or pain during intercourse.
Why is it Important to Address Female Sexual Dysfunction in Relationships?
It is essential to address female sexual dysfunction in relationships as it is crucial for maintaining the overall well-being of both partners and sustaining a satisfying relationship. Let’s look at some of the benefits of addressing female sexual dysfunction in relationships:
- Enhanced Relationship Satisfaction: Addressing female sexual dysfunction can improve the sexual satisfaction between both partners thus enriching the overall relationship.
- Increased Communication and Intimacy: Addressing sexual dysfunction encourages open communication between partners regarding their desires and needs. This increased communication can help foster intimacy, bringing the partners closer than before.
- Reduced Emotional Distress: Living with sexual dysfunction is challenging for both parties. Therefore, addressing these concerns will help alleviate the distress.
- Prevention of Relationship Strain: If left unaddressed, sexual disorders can lead to long-term relationship problems and dissatisfaction. Proactively treating these disorders will prevent such strains and solidify the relationship further.
- Quality of Life Improvement: As understood, sexual disorders can reduce the quality of life for both partners. By addressing these disorders, individuals can experience better sexual quality and overall improvement in well-being.
- Increased Relationship Resilience: Couples that work together to overcome challenges like female sexual disorders, often develop better relationship resilience. This shared experience can enhance the bond between partners, thus creating a stronger relationship.
- Positive Impact on Mental Health: Untreated sexual disorders can increase mental health concerns like anxiety or depression. Addressing these disorders can positively impact the mental health of both partners.
- Long-Term Relationship Stability: Proactively managing and treating sexual dysfunction can lead to long-term relationship stability.
In a nutshell, addressing female sexual dysfunction in relationships is key to creating a stronger bond between partners.
7 Helpful Tips to Overcome Female Sexual Dysfunction in Your Relationship
Here are seven helpful tips to help you manage sexual dysfunction in your relationship.
- Open Communication: We all know that open communication is the foundation of a healthy relationship and it’s no exception when it comes to managing female sexual dysfunction. When dealing with FSD, it’s essential to encourage open and honest conversations about sexual health, desires, concerns, and needs. Create a safe space where both partners feel comfortable expressing their views without judgement. Remember, active listening is key to understanding and fostering empathy.
- Educate Yourself: Understanding female sexual dysfunction is essential for both partners. That’s why it’s important for you to know the various aspects of female sexual disorder, including its common causes, symptoms, and available treatment. Knowledge empowers your relationship and reduces any feelings of frustration or inadequacy.
- Foster Emotional Intimacy: While physical intimacy is essential, emotional connection plays a more significant role in maintaining a healthy relationship. Focus on building emotional intimacy with your partner through quality time and shared activities. Strengthening emotional intimacy can certainly reduce some of the stress associated with sexual dysfunction.
2 more Tips:
- Patience and Empathy: Dealing with female sexual dysfunction can be challenging, that’s why patience and empathy are crucial for both partners. Understand that the journey towards the solution may take time and setbacks may happen. Avoid putting blame on each other or creating added stress, instead face the situation with a supportive mindset.
- Experiment Non-Sexual Intimacy: While managing FSD, explore different forms of non-sexual intimacy to boost connection. This can be anything from cuddling, and holding hands to engaging in activities that bring joy to both partners. Redefining intimacy beyond the sexual boundaries can help you both connect deeper.
The last 2 tips:
- Collaborate Problem-Solving: Face FSD as a collaborate challenge. Discuss the potential solutions, set realistic goals, and always remember to celebrate small wins together. Approaching FSD together can bring a sense of unity to the relationship.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consulting healthcare professionals, like gynecologists and sex therapists, can offer valuable guidance. Experts can help you understand the root cause of FSD and recommend personalized plans.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
As you can see, female sexual dysfunction can be a challenging battle but with proper care and support, it can be overcome. If your partner is struggling with female sexual dysfunction, it’s important to seek medical help. Consider Dr. Mozhgan, one of the best gynecologists in Dubai. With over 25 years of experience and expertise, Dr. Mozhgan is at the forefront of treating female sexual dysfunction in Dubai.
