Understanding Female Sexual Problems

The sexual response cycle is a cycle during which physical and emotional changes occur as a woman becomes sexually aroused and participates in stimulating sexual activities. The sexual response cycle has four phases:

• Excitement – is the first phase of the sexual response cycle. During this phase the body begins to react in sexual stimulation. This phase can last from couple of minutes to couple of hours and it is characterized by hard and erected nipples, increased muscle tension, rapid heart rate and breathing, increased blood flow to the genital area, beginning of vaginal lubrication, etc.
• Plateau – is the second phase of the sexual response cycle. During this phase the changes that have begun in the first phase are more intensified. The woman’s clitoris becomes very sensitive, muscle tension is increased, the heart rate, breathing and the blood pressure continue to increase, etc.
• Orgasm – is the third phase of the sexual response cycle. The orgasm is the climax of the sexual response cycle, during which there is a sudden release of sexual tension, the vagina and uterus undergo rhythmic contractions. There is also a rapid intake of oxygen with an increased blood pressure, breathing and heart rate.
• Resolution – is the fourth and last phase of the sexual response cycle. During this phase the body slowly undergoes to its normal condition before the sexual stimulation and arousal begin. This phase is also characterized by a general sense of pleasure, well – being and satisfaction. Some women are capable of experiencing multiple orgasms.

Sexual problems and sexual dysfunction in woman result from any physical or psychological problem. Various physical conditions like heart disease, kidney diseases, neurological diseases, liver failure, diabetes, alcoholism, drug abuse, hormonal imbalance, menopause, etc., can lead to sexual problems and sexual dysfunction. Various psychological problems like depression, work – related stress, anxiety, relationship problems, marriage problems, sexual trauma, etc., may also lead to sexual problems and sexual dysfunction.

But, how these sexual problems affect woman and lead eventually to a sexual dysfunction?

Sexual problems that mostly affect woman include:

• Inability to become aroused – usually results from insufficient vaginal lubrication, inadequate sexual stimulation from the partner, etc.
• Lack of sexual desire – usually results from sexual trauma in the past, sexual abuse, various medical conditions, stress, depression, hormonal changes, the same sexual routine, etc.
• Inability to have an orgasm – usually results from sexual trauma in the past, sexual abuse, anxiety, inexperience, etc.
• Painful sexual intercourse – usually results from various medical conditions that affect the genital organs and the female reproductive system like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, ovarian inflammation, vaginitis, poor lubrication, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.

Diagnosing a sexual problem and sexual dysfunction is not an easy job. First, health care providers will do a total check-up in order to rule out any other medical condition that might interfere with the sexual activity and sexual life. An evaluation of other contributing factors like stress, fear, anxiety, depression, sexual trauma and sexual abuse will help your health care provider understand the real cause of the sexual problem and make appropriate recommendations for the treatment.

The treatment of the sexual dysfunction in women will vary from its cause.