Sex. That thing we don’t talk about although many of us engage in, regularly, or not so regularly.
As with all other aspects of our lives, everyone’s experience of sex is differs, in both positive and negative ways. As much as most people find sex pleasurable, there are also people who have difficulties with sex. One type of sexual dysfunction experienced by women is female sexual arousal disorder (FSAID)
While having a sexual dysfunction can feel isolating, it’s actually fairly common. About 40 percent of women experience some type of sexual dysfunction, such as FSIAD, in their life.
For many women, the symptoms of FSIAD come and go. Some have symptoms every time they try to have intercourse or engage in sexual activity. Others may only experience them occasionally.
Symptoms of FSIAD include:
● Loss of interest in sex. This maybe due to a lack of arousal or may also be a symptom of stress and anxiety from having FSAID.
● Few thoughts related to sex.
● Less initialtion of sexual activity. Being unreceptive t a partners attempts at initiating sex.
● Decreased sexual excitement or pleasure during sex.
● Lack of genital or non-genital sensations during sex.
What causes it?
Arousal sets off a series of events in the body: Increased blood flow to the tissues around the vaginal opening and clitoris, causing swelling. The vagina produces natural lubricant.
These events are the result of a series of chain reactions. Any interruption in the process can cause FSIAD. These interruptions could be either psychological, physical or both.
Psychological causes
Emotional and mental health issues that can cause FSIAD include:
● low self-esteem
● poor body image
● stress
● anxiety
● depression
● relationship problems
● negative thoughts
● guilt
● Trauma
Hormonal causes
Hormones are an important part of the process of sexual arousal. Changes in hormone levels may affect ones ability to be aroused. However, it’s not clear whether there’s a direct relationship between hormone levels and sexual function.
Things that can cause hormonal changes and possible FSIAD include:
● menopause
● birth control pills
● Pregnancy
Other causes
Other factors can also lead to FSIAD, including:
● Medications. Certain medications, including Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant, may cause FSIAD.
● Medical treatments. Such as chemotherapy or radiation. Likewise, a recent surgery may interfere with arousal and sexual stimulation.
● Inadequate sexual simulation. You might have trouble getting aroused if the stimulation you receive from yourself or your partner isn’t sufficient.
● Diabetes. Diabetes can affect the nervous and vascular systems. This may make arousal more difficult because the body is unable to send the necessary hormones, blood, and electrical signals for arousal.
How is it diagnosed?
FSIAD is sometimes hard for doctors to diagnose since many cases involve a combination of underlying conditions. In addition, many women may feel uncomfortable talking to their doctor about their symptoms and their sex life. This prevents a lot of women from getting diagnosed.
Most doctors start by asking a series of questions about your sexual and mental health. Next, the doctor may perform a pelvic exam to rule out any physical causes of your symptoms, such as an infection or nerve damage.
If your doctor determines your symptoms aren’t due to physical causes, they may refer you to a psychotherapist who specializes in sexual health. This health professional can help you discover the emotional cause behind your FSIAD and help you create a treatment plan that suits you.
Many women experience a form of sexual dysfunction at some point, including problems being aroused. While having FSIAD can feel isolating, frustrating or unnatural, it can be treated.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined above, Start by making an appointment with your doctor to rule out any underlying physical or psychological conditions that might be causing your symptoms. You can also try seeing a sex therapist either on your own or with your partner.
