Sexual Problems

Sexual dysfunction can affect an individual or a couple. It refers to any problem that prevents pleasure during the sexual response cycle. This cycle has four phases:

• Motivation or desire.
• Arousal.
• Orgasm.
• Resolution.

Sexual dysfunction affects approximately 30% to 40% of women. Lack of desire is the most common complaint. Sexual problems tend to increase as women get older, but they can affect women at any stage of life. Sexual dysfunction can be temporary or chronic (long-lasting).

Female sexual dysfunction can take many forms and have many causes. It can occur before, during or even after intercourse. The most common types of sexual dysfunction are:

• Anorgasmia: Orgasm disorder or inability to orgasm.
• Dyspareunia: Pain during intercourse.
• Hypoactive sexual desire disorder: Low libido or lack of sexual desire.
• Sexual arousal disorder: Difficulty becoming aroused.