An Overview of Sexual Dysfunction

What is sexual dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity. The sexual response cycle includes excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution.

While research suggests that sexual dysfunction is common (43 percent of women and 31 percent of men report some degree of difficulty), it is a topic that many people are hesitant to discuss. Fortunately, most cases of sexual dysfunction are treatable, so it is important to share your concerns with your partner and health care provider.

What are the types of sexual dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction generally is classified into four categories:
* Desire disorders The lack of sexual desire or interest in sex
* Arousal disorders The inability to become physically aroused during sexual activity
* Orgasm disorders The delay or absence of orgasm (climax)
* Pain disorders Pain during intercourse (This condition mostly affects women.)

Who is affected by sexual dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction is more common in the early adult years, with the majority of people seeking help during their late 20s and early 30s. Sexual dysfunction also is common in the geriatric population, which may be related to a decline in health associated with aging.

What are the symptoms of sexual dysfunction?
In men:
* Inability to achieve an erection or maintain and erection suitable for intercourse (erectile dysfunction)
* Delayed or absence of ejaculation despite adequate sexual stimulation
* Inability to control the timing of ejaculation (premature or retarded ejaculation)

In women:
* Inability to relax the vaginal muscles enough to allow intercourse
* Inadequate vaginal lubrication before and during intercourse
* Inability to achieve orgasm

In men and women:
* Lack of interest in or desire for sex
* Inability to become aroused
* Pain with intercourse

What causes sexual dysfunction?
Causes of sexual dysfunction include:
Physical causes Many physical and/or medical conditions can cause problems with sexual function. These conditions include diabetes, heart and vascular (blood vessel) disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic diseases such as kidney or liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. In addition, the side effects of some medications, including some antidepressants drugs, can affect sexual function.

Psychological causes These include work-related stress and anxiety, concern about sexual performance, marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the effects of a past sexual trauma.

How is sexual dysfunction diagnosed?
The doctor likely will begin with a complete physical and history of symptoms. He or she may order diagnostic tests to rule out any medical problems that may be contributing to the dysfunction. An evaluation of the person's attitudes regarding sex, as well as other possible contributing factors (fear, anxiety, past sexual trauma/abuse, relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, etc.) will help the doctor understand the underlying cause of the problem and make recommendations for appropriate treatment.

How is sexual dysfunction treated?
Most types of sexual dysfunction can be corrected by treated the underlying physical or psychological problems. Other treatment strategies include:

Medication Men and women with hormone deficiencies may benefit from hormone shots, pills or creams. For men, drugs including sildenafil (Viagra) may help improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to the penis.

Mechanical aids Aids such as vacuum devices and penile implants may help men with erectile dysfunction (the inability to achieve or maintain an erection).

Behavioral treatments These involve various techniques, such as self-stimulation, to treat problems with arousal and/or orgasm.

Psychotherapy Therapy with a trained counselor can help a person address feelings of anxiety, fear or guilt as well as poor body image that may have an impact on sexual function.

Education and communication Education about sex, and sexual behaviors and responses may help an individual overcome his or her anxieties about sexual function. Open dialogue with your partner about your needs and concerns also helps to overcome many barriers to a healthy sex life.

Can sexual dysfunction be cured?
The success of treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the underlying cause of the problem. The outlook is good for dysfunction that is related to a treatable or reversible physical condition. Mild dysfunction that is related to stress, fear or anxiety often can be successfully treated with counseling, education and improved communication between partners.


Source: revolutionhealth.com

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