- Sexual dysfunction can be defined as the inability to feel satisfied by sexual intercourse. People with sexual dysfunction experience a problem during the sexual response cycle that leaves them unfulfilled. The sexual response cycle can be separated into four stages: excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution. A person with sexual dysfunction may be unable to be sexually excited, be uninterested in intercourse, feel physical pain during sex or have trouble ejaculating or being stimulated.
- Sexual dysfunction can be grouped into four categories: desire dysfunction, orgasm dysfunction, arousal dysfunction and sexual pain dysfunction. The cause of the problem depends on the type of dysfunction, and may be either a physical or psychological issue. Women may suffer from a decreased libido, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), orgasm problems, inability to be sexually aroused, vaginismus (involuntary contraction around muscles surrounding the vagina) or vulvodynia (pain in the vulva). Men may suffer from ejaculation disorder, inhibited sexual desire or erectile dysfunction.
- Sexual dysfunction may be caused by physical conditions. Diabetes, heart and vascular disease, hormone imbalances, arthritis, fatigue, urinary or bowel difficulties, neurological disorders, kidney or liver failure and drug use can cause problems in the bedroom. Certain surgical injuries may result in impotence. Some medications---like certain antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs and antihistamines---can cause a decreased libido and interfere with the ability to orgasm. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or menopausal may experience a temporary decrease in desire due to fluctuating hormones.
- Along with physical conditions, psychological issues may be significant causes of sexual dysfunction. Depression, anxiety, stress, self-consciousness about sexual performance, guilt, and relationship or marital problems can easily lead to sexual problems. Past traumatic experiences may impede present sexual desire, or a person may simply be bored with his relationship. Relationship issues will need to be addressed for any treatment to work.
- There are many treatments to choose from to overcome sexual dysfunction. Some medications, such as sildenafil (Viagra), increase blood flow to the penis and help men who have erectile dysfunction. Other people don't need medication---they just need a change in routine or a new position to mix things up. If the cause is primarily emotional, psychotherapy can be used to explore any deeply hidden feelings. But first, anyone suffering from sexual dysfunction needs to talk openly with her partner.
