Female Sexual Dysfunction: An Overlooked ‘Women’s Problem’

When it comes to sexual problems, Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is often overlooked, despite being a common condition. Lack of awareness and social stigma prevent many women from seeking help, leading to delayed diagnosis or neglect. Research shows that about 38% of women worldwide experience some form of FSD, a higher prevalence than sexual dysfunction in men, which is around 28%.

The effects go beyond the bedroom. FSD can influence both physical and emotional well-being, reduce self-esteem, and even affect intimate relationships. Yet, because conversations about women’s sexual health are still limited, many continue to suffer in silence.

This article explores the essentials of FSD, including its types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is Female Sexual Dysfunction?

Sexual Dysfunction (SD) in women can be understood as the persistent inability to experience sexual pleasure or arousal. It causes personal distress and often impacts the relationship with your partner. FSD may take different forms, from a lack of sexual desire to physical pain during sex.

In the US only, the prevalence of FSD has been reported to be around 43%, where nearly 17%-54% of women confess to having problems with sexual desire. Sexual Dysfunction in women may have physiological and psychological causes or both, impacting each other. Fortunately, FSD is manageable with early diagnosis and prompt medical intervention.

Female Sexual Dysfunction symptoms and types

Some common symptoms that often signal the type of Female Sexual Dysfunction are as follows:

• Sexual Desire Disorder: It involves a lack of interest in engaging in sexual activity in general or with the current partner. It may also involve low libido in women and can be caused by lower Estrogen and Testosterone levels.
• Sexual Pain Disorder: Involuntary muscle tightening around the vagina, as in the case of Vaginismus, causes a painful sexual experience. It can also be due to inadequate lubrication of the vagina.
• Orgasm Disorder: Even with normal sexual interest, you may face difficulty reaching orgasm or climax.
• Sexual Arousal Disorder: It causes difficulty in becoming sexually aroused, also called Female Sexual Arousal Disorder.

Female Sexual Dysfunction causes

Many factors or causes contribute to the development of Sexual Dysfunction in women. While the causes are typically physical or psychological, they are often associated with each other, creating a complex interplay that can further complicate diagnosis and treatment. 

Some major contributors to Sexual Dysfunction in females include:

1. Physical FSD causes

Several health conditions and treatments can affect sexual function and desire. These issues may also cause pain during sex or reduce sexual satisfaction. Common factors include:

• Cancer (including Breast and Ovarian Cancer)
• Bladder problems
• Kidney diseases
• High Blood Pressure
• Heart problems
• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Hyperprolactinemia
• Surgical removal of the ovaries
• Side effects from certain medications, such as antidepressants, Chemotherapy, and blood pressure medicines.

2.  Psychological causes of FSD

Emotions and feelings play a notable role in sexual health, and many women experience Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) due to mental or emotional factors. These psychological causes of sexual dysfunction can arise from life experiences, stress, or personal challenges, such as:

• Depression
• Persistent fears, such as fear of rejection, self-image concerns, or past sexual trauma
• Low self-esteem or ongoing self-doubt
• Anxiety
• Emotional distress after the sudden loss of a close relative
• Ongoing family problems or relationship conflicts
• Financial stress that affects mental well-being

Addressing these issues can restore emotional balance, improve confidence, and support a fulfilling sexual relationship.

3. Hormonal imbalance

Changes in hormone levels can greatly affect sexual health in women, especially during midlife and beyond. Low Estrogen after Menopause is a common factor that influences sexual desire and comfort. 

Key points include:

• Menopause and libido changes are due to declining Estrogen levels.
• Low Estrogen causes thinning and reduced elasticity of vaginal tissue, leading to discomfort or pain during sex.
• Reduced natural lubrication, making intimacy less pleasurable.
• Low libido in women is linked to hormonal shifts, particularly in the years following Menopause.
• Hormonal changes potentially impacting arousal, sensitivity, and overall sexual satisfaction.
• Noticeable changes in women’s sex drive after 40, due to gradual hormone decline.

Managing these hormonal effects can help improve comfort, restore desire, and support a healthy intimate life.

4. Pregnancy and postpartum issues

Pregnancy is itself a rollercoaster of hormones and a new experience for many women. Sex drive during pregnancy and postpartum is often diminished and may be linked to fatigue and stress. 

The risks of the impact of pregnancy and postpartum on the sexual function of a woman are as follows:

• Stress: The company of the infant, changes in roles, and sleep disruptions may cause stress, affecting the sex drive.
• Postpartum injuries: Tearing in the area of the vaginal opening during delivery may lead to pain in the vaginal region, often linked to a decreased sex drive.
• Postpartum Depression: Postpartum Depression is real issue and is caused by sudden hormonal changes after the delivery of the baby, which further affect the sex drive.

Diagnosis of Female Sexual Dysfunction

The diagnosis of FSD involves identifying the symptoms of impaired sexual function through medical and sexual history. It can only be diagnosed if the symptoms of FSD persist for more than six months and cause significant psychological distress among women.

The diagnosis of FSD involves a thorough examination of the pelvic region to identify the cause of pain during sexual activity. Your doctor may also take a blood test to look for the underlying health condition or hormonal imbalance that may cause FSD.

Furthermore, your doctor may also ask you questions related to your sexual life, such as:

• Symptoms of sexual impairment
• Other medical disorders
• If you had an injury in the pelvic region
• Relationship with your partner
• If you take any medications
• Common triggers like emotional baggage or past problems
• Past sexual experiences or sexual trauma

Based on the answers to these questions, your doctor may prescribe you Sexual Dysfunction treatment for a faster recovery.

How to treat Female Sexual Dysfunction?

With early treatment and proper management, you can overcome sexual problems. Some of the effective ways to treat FSD are as follows:

Medications

Some prescribed medical treatments for FSD include the following:

• Estrogen therapy: Your doctor may recommend Estrogen Therapy to replace the Estrogen levels after Menopause. It comes in various forms, including vaginal cream, tablets, rings, and gels.
• Androgen therapy: While Testosterone is often associated with male sexual function, it plays a significant role in women, too. Low male hormone levels can be treated with Testosterone gel for women, which can improve sexual function.
• Female Sexual Dysfunction pill: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Flibanserin for low sexual desire in women before Menopause.
• Prasterone: It is a synthetic type of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) that is inserted into the vagina. It relieves vaginal dryness and makes sexual activity less painful.
• Ospemifene: If you cannot apply vaginal Hormonal Therapy, Ospemifene, a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM), can treat genital problems in women.
• Phosphodiesterase (PDE) Inhibitors: Some PDE Inhibitors, such as Sildenafil-containing Lovegra 100 mg and Lovegra Oral Jelly Rx 100, can benefit FSD.

Lifestyle adjustments

In addition to medications, you can also treat FSD regardless of its causes. Some Female Sexual Dysfunction natural treatments or measures include:

• Open communication with your partner about sexual preferences, concerns, and needs.
• Educate yourself and your partner about sexual health and FSD to reduce misunderstandings.
• Strengthen emotional intimacy through shared activities, trust-building, and mutual support.
• Engage in relaxing Yoga, meditation, or mindfulness to reduce triggers and manage stress.
• Seek professional support from a sex therapist or try Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for emotional barriers.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking.
• Use aids for comfort and arousal, such as vaginal lubricants or clitoral stimulation devices.
• Practice safe sexual activity to maintain overall sexual health.

Sexual function is crucial in shaping the bond between you and your partner. Always discuss these issues with your partner, your sexual preferences, and your concerns.

Conclusion

Female Sexual Dysfunction is a complex condition that can affect desire, arousal, orgasm, and comfort during intimacy. Its causes may be physical, psychological, hormonal, or linked to pregnancy and postpartum changes. 

Many women also experience challenges due to underlying health conditions, emotional stress, or relationship difficulties. Diagnosis requires persistence of symptoms for at least six months and a detailed evaluation of medical, emotional, and sexual history. 

Fortunately, FSD is manageable with a combination of treatments, such as hormone therapy, prescribed medications, and PDE inhibitors like Lovegra. Lifestyle changes, open communication, stress reduction, and healthy habits also play a key role in recovery. 

With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, women can restore intimacy, improve confidence, and enjoy a fulfilling sexual life. If you notice ongoing symptoms, consult a healthcare provider to explore safe and effective options for treatment and long-term well-being.