Snayubikshan

Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem occurring 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 traditionally includes excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Desire and arousal are both part of the excitement phase of the sexual response.

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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. Because treatment options are available, it is important to share your concerns with your partner and healthcare provider.

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What are the types of sexual dysfunction?

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Sexual dysfunction generally is classified into four categories:

• Desire disorders —lack of sexual desire or interest in sex

• Arousal disorders —inability to become physically aroused or excited during sexual activity

• Orgasm disorders —delay or absence of orgasm (climax)

• Pain disorders — pain during intercourse

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Who is affected by sexual dysfunction?

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Sexual dysfunction can affect any age, although it is more common in those over 40 because it is often related to a decline in health associated with aging.

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What are the symptoms of sexual dysfunction?

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In men:

• Inability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse (erectile dysfunction)

• Absent or delayed ejaculation despite adequate sexual stimulation (retarded ejaculation)

• Inability to control the timing of ejaculation (early or premature ejaculation)

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In women:

• Inability to achieve orgasm

• Inadequate vaginal lubrication before and during intercourse

• Inability to relax the vaginal muscles enough to allow intercourse

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In men and women:

• Lack of interest in or desire for sex

• Inability to become aroused

• Pain with intercourse

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How is sexual dysfunction treated?

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

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Medication — When a medication is the cause of the dysfunction, a change in the medication may help. Men and women with hormone deficiencies may benefit from hormone shots, pills, or creams.

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Sex therapy — Sex therapists can be very helpful to couples experiencing a sexual problem that cannot be addressed by their primary clinician. Therapists are often good marital counselors, as well. For the couple who wants to begin enjoying their sexual relationship, it is well worth the time and effort to work with a trained professional.

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Behavioral treatments — These involve various techniques, including insights into harmful behaviors in the relationship, or techniques such as self-stimulation for treatment of problems with arousal and/or orgasm.

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Psychotherapy — Therapy with a trained counselor can help a person address sexual trauma from the past, feelings of anxiety, fear, or guilt, and poor body image, all of which may have an impact on current sexual function.

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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.

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