Condition

What is sexual dysfunction?

Persistent, recurrent problems with sexual response, desire, orgasm, or pain — that distress you or strain your relationship with your partner — are known medically as sexual dysfunction. Many women experience problems with sexual function at some stage of their lives, and some have difficulties throughout their lives. It can prevent a woman from experiencing satisfaction during sex. Sexual problems are reported to affect 40 percent of women worldwide and approximately one in every eight females have a sexual problem associated with personal distress.

What causes sexual dysfunction?

Causes can be physical, social, psychological or multifactorial. In views of physical causes, many symptoms of female sexual dysfunction can be associated with issues of pelvic floor diseases. Pelvic floor distortion from childbirth, gynaecologic conditions (such as endometriosis, uterine fibroid), hormonal imbalance following menopause can often lead to physiological and structure changes to pelvic floor and feminine tissues. Ultimately resulting in symptoms negatively impacted on women sexual function. It is important to known that there are also other health conditions, certain medications, or psychosocial factors can affect sexual function and it will need multi-disciplinary treatment approach in order to address patients concerns.

How can we help?

As a women led team at FEMME, we understand the unique needs and concerns of women. Our mission is to empower women though innovative and state of the art treatments, helping to remove the stigma around feminine health.  We offer the latest radiofrequency (RF) technology that focuses on pelvic floor and feminine tissue restoration. Intra-vaginal RF is a safe non-hormonal option for women having difficulty achieving orgasm. Treatment also has visible tightening effect on feminine tissues and appears to increase local blood flow, result in increased vaginal tightness and moisture. Improved appearance and friction resulted in improved confidence and reduced anxiety.

FAQ

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How common is sexual dysfunction in women?

Sexual dysfunction affects about 30% to 40% of women. A lack of desire is the most common complaint. Problems with sex tend to increase as women age, but can affect women at any stage of life. Sexual dysfunction may be temporary or chronic (long-lasting).

What causes sexual dysfunction in women?

Physical causes of sexual dysfunction in women may include:

  • Blood flow disorders: Some research points to vascular (blood vessel) disorders. These disorders may prevent blood flow to parts of the female reproductive system. The vagina, clitoris and labia need increased blood flow for sexual arousal.
  • Certain medications and treatments: Some medications affect sexual function. Antidepressants may reduce your sex drive or your ability to have an orgasm. Selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are especially likely to cause sexual side effects. Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can also affect hormone levels and cause problems.
  • Gynaecologic conditions: Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids and vaginitis can all cause pain during sex. Vaginismus, a condition that causes vaginal muscle spasms, can also make intercourse uncomfortable.
  • Hormonal changes: Hormone imbalances may cause vaginal dryness or vaginal atrophy, making sex painful. Low estrogen levels can also reduce feeling in genitals. Menopause, surgery and pregnancy can affect hormone levels.
  • Particular health conditions: A number of health conditions can affect your ability to enjoy sex. These include diabetes, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and heart disease. Drug addiction or alcohol abuse may also prevent a healthy sexual experience.
  • Psychological causes of sexual dysfunction in women may include:
  • Depression: Depression may cause a lack of interest in activities you enjoyed before, including sex. Low self-esteem and feelings of hopelessness can also contribute to sexual dysfunction.
  • Stress: Stress at home or work can make it hard to focus on enjoying sex. Some studies show that stress can increase levels of the hormone cortisol. This increase may lower sex drive.
  • Past physical or sexual abuse: Trauma or abuse may cause anxiety and a fear of intimacy. These feelings can make it difficult to have sex
  • Relationship issues: Some women may be unhappy with their partner or feel bored during sex. Other strains on the relationship may lead to sexual dysfunction.
How can I prevent sexual dysfunction?

While there isn’t a single way to prevent sexual dysfunction, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Avoiding drugs and too much alcohol.
  • Eating a balanced diet.
  • Exercising regularly.
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight.
  • Seeking help from a health care professional if you are experiencing trouble with your mood or difficulty communicating with your partner.

    Also, talk to your doctor about sexual dysfunction risk before starting new medications or undergoing certain medical procedures.

Is sexual dysfunction a permanent condition?

For some women, sexual dysfunction may go away on its own. It also might only happen at certain times, such as after childbirth or during hormonal changes. For others, sexual dysfunction may need ongoing management. Sexual dysfunction often requires the assistance of different multiple different types of health care professionals, including physiotherapist, counsellors, women’s health doctors, and gynaecologist.

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