When it comes to problems in the bedroom, men typically know what signs to watch for and how to get help. But women aren’t always so lucky.
Many women suffer through difficulties with intimacy for years, never knowing that they could have relief from their symptoms. Some have even brought up concerns in the bedroom to their friends, family members, or medical professionals only to be told it’s “normal for women.”
But satisfying sex isn’t something just for men. And problems in the bedroom, from pain to disinterest and more, aren’t normal for women.
These issues are actually symptoms of sexual dysfunction, a medical term for ongoing symptoms that prevent you from enjoying sex to the fullest. So how do you know whether you have sexual dysfunction, and what should your next step be?
Read on to find out!
The 4 Types Of Sexual Dysfunction In Women
There are four main types of sexual dysfunction. Depending on the cause of your sexual dysfunction, you may experience only one type, or you may find yourself suffering from multiple symptoms.
- Low libido: This is the most common type of sexual dysfunction, with an estimated 40-70% of women experiencing a drop in their sex life at some point in life. When your libido is low, you’re just not in the mood for sex, even when you really want to be.
- Sexual arousal disorder: Sometimes, getting in the mood isn’t the problem. It’s staying in the mood. You may have no problem with arousal at the start of intercourse but find yourself losing interest or enjoyment after that.
- Orgasmic disorder: What if you’re in the mood and excited for sex, but it just isn’t pleasurable? It might not be your partner’s fault. With orgasmic disorder, you may struggle to experience an orgasm even in the best positions.
- Sexual pain disorder: This is another form of sexual dysfunction often dismissed or overlooked by patients. Pain during sex isn’t normal. If you experience an aching, stabbing, cramping, or burning discomfort while having intercourse, it’s time to get help.
What Causes Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction looks like different things to different women based on the underlying cause. For some women, hormonal imbalances like menopause can lead to problems in the bedroom. Others may suffer from underlying conditions that cause pain during intercourse.
Common causes of low libido can include:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Depression or anxiety
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Alcohol
- Certain medications
Common causes of sexual arousal disorder are often:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy
- Decreased sensitivity due to diabetes
- Depression or anxiety
- Certain medications like birth control pills
Common causes of delayed, infrequent, or absent orgasms include:
- Changes to vaginal tissue caused by low estrogen levels
- Diabetes, overactive bladder, or multiple sclerosis
- Blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and certain antihistamines
- Alcohol and smoking
- Psychological and relationship issues
Common causes of pain during intercourse include:
- Low estrogen levels leading to vaginal dryness
- Endometriosis
- PCOS
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Uterine prolapse or retroverted uterus
- Fibroids or cystitis
- Gut conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome
- Hemorrhoids
- Ovarian cysts
- Stress
- Trauma from sexual abuse
Identifying the cause of your sexual dysfunction is key to moving forward. Fortunately, even if you are unsure why the symptoms are happening, there are non-invasive treatment options available to help you enjoy sex to the fullest.
The Best Treatment Options For Female Sexual Dysfunction
Whether you have been suffering from sexual dysfunction for years or you are just noticing these problems, there are treatments available to help you get lasting relief.
1. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy
As you probably noticed, one of the most common causes of all types of sexual dysfunction is a hormonal imbalance, particularly low estrogen levels. This is why so many cases happen during and after menopause.
If you experience signs of sexual dysfunction, a natural first step is to have your hormone levels tested and undergo bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Bio-identical hormones are natural hormones identical to those in the body administered in tiny pellets smaller than a grain of rice. Based on how your body reacts to the hormones, your doctor will adjust your dosage to help you get the most benefit out of each BHRT treatment.
Another benefit of undergoing BHRT as a treatment for sexual dysfunction is the fact that hormonal imbalances can cause problems in almost every system of the body. So your hormonal imbalance is likely affecting more than just the bedroom, and you might not realize it. You can experience dozens of other benefits of BHRT, including:
- Better mental focus, clarity, and attention span
- Improved energy levels
- Enhanced metabolism and ability to lose weight
- A consistently happier mood
- Clearer, brighter skin
- An overall improved quality of life
2. Peptides
If the main type of sexual dysfunction you experience is low libido, there’s another simple way you can improve your sex drive naturally. Peptides, chains of amino acids found throughout the body, play key roles in releasing hormones known to increase sexual interest. Studies have shown that lower levels of specific peptides, like kisspeptin and bremelanotide, are directly linked to increased attraction and desire.
Not all peptides are created equal. So before you jump to Amazon to order peptide supplements, make sure you schedule a consultation with a trusted medical professional who has experience working with peptides. Your doctor can direct you to the best peptides for your specific needs and provide you with high-quality, FDA-approved brands that will give you the best results possible.
3. The Orgasmic PRP Shot
If you don’t have any problems getting in the mood but find sex isn’t as pleasurable as it used to be––or is downright uncomfortable––this solution could be right for you. PRP, also known as platelet-rich plasma, contains the liquid and platelets from your blood. These contain growth factors shown to trigger cell repair and stimulate tissue regeneration.
With an Orgasmic PRP Shot, PRP causes new, healthy vaginal tissue to grow where you need it most. Not only does this improve sensation and pleasure, but it also decreases pain during intercourse, improves lubrication, and helps with bladder leakage. The results happen fast––in some cases, instantly––and they can last up to 18 months.
You Deserve A Fun, Satisfying Sex Life
It doesn’t matter whether you’re in your 30s or your golden years, sex is supposed to be fun, and you should be able to enjoy it! If you suspect you may be experiencing sexual dysfunction, book a consultation with The Resurge Clinic today.
Dr. Wusterhausen is one of the only doctors in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to train under Dr. Red Alinsod, a renowned Orgasmic PRP Shot specialist. Our team has helped countless women regain their confidence and get closer to their partners. We’d be happy to help you, too!
