Female sexual dysfunction: Causes and treatment

When a female experiences lower sexual interest, trouble having an orgasm, or pain during intercourse, it signals sexual dysfunction in women. A satisfying sex session rejuvenates the mind, body, and soul. However, trouble in paradise can be frustrating for females and their partners. 

The question arises: What causes sexual problems female? The answer lies in the following points:

• Physical conditions: Any chronic medical problem like cancer, kidney failure, heart disease, bladder issues can cause sexual dysfunction. Moreover, the mediation for different illnesses like antihistamines, chemotherapy drugs, antidepressants, and blood pressure medicines can also decrease the sexual drive and orgasm experience. 
• Hormonal: Menopause lowers estrogen levels leading to changes in genital tissue and sexual responsiveness. The blood flow to the pelvic region reduces, lowering genital sensations. Thus, the time for sexual arousal and orgasm increases which may frustrate the partner. 

Sexual desire decreases with changes in hormones. The vaginal lining thins and becomes less elastic, leading to painful sexual experiences. Vaginal dryness also occurs after you give birth and breastfeed, leading to female sexual problem.

• Social and mental:  Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, etc., that have arisen recently or were left untreated before can cause sexual problems female. If you are expecting or have just given birth, the constant worries of being a mother and postpartum depression can negatively affect the sex drive. Moreover, work-life problems are another reason to add to the woes that distract your thoughts and hinder sexual arousal. 

Relationship strains with a partner or family can also be a concern in low libido. Cultural, religious, and body image issues can also reflect sexual dysfunction. 

Various risks raise the chances of sexual problems female. These include: 

·       Cardiovascular disease- heart and blood problems

·       Depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues

·       Neurological conditions like spinal injury

·       Gynecological issues

·       Medicine side effects

·       Emotional or mental stress

·       Sexual abuse history

Diagnosis and treatment:

Dr. SK Jain sexologist diagnoses female sexual problems by:

• Discussing your medical and sexual history- you must be upfront and open about it for effective treatment
• Pelvic exam performance to check for physical changes causing hindrance in sexual enjoyment or arousal- it includes checking genital issue thinning, decreased skin elasticity, pain, scarring
• Blood tests to determine any underlying disease affecting sexual performance
• Referring to counselor or therapist for sexual and relationship problems

The non-medical treatment for loss of libido in females include:

• Open communication with partner to share your worries and have greater intimacy
• Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits like exercising, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, focusing on the good, enjoying a favorite hobby to increase your stamina, elevate mood, enhance romantic feelings, and reduce stress
• Talking to a therapist or counselor can give you a fresh perspective of your problems and ways to solve them.
• External lubricants can help alleviate dress and pain and make sex enjoyable.
• Using sex toys can stimulate the area and cause sexual arousal.

Medical treatments for sexual problems in females include estrogen therapy, Ospemifene, Androgen therapy, etc. The treatments vary based on your needs and issues.