Sex is a normal, healthy & internal part of the life. It is an act of touching intimately with stimulation giving excitement to a partner, male or female and Sexuality is a complex process, coordinated by the neurology, vascular and endocrine systems. A sexual problem, or sexual dysfunction, refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual intercourse that prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity. Sexual problems are common and can occur in women of any age.
In addition, Sexual dysfunction or sexual problem is a term used to describe difficulties in libido (sex drive), arousal, orgasm, or pain with sex that is bothersome to an individual. Sexual dysfunction may be a lifelong problem or acquired later in life after a period of having no difficulties with sex. Women are most likely to be satisfied with their sex lives if they are physically and psychologically healthy and have a good relationship with their partner. Although a host of changes in hormones, blood vessels, and tissues of the vagina can affect a woman's sexuality, relationship difficulties and feeling poorly, are the most common causes of sexual problems. Sexual problems fall into four groups:
- Sex Desire problems
- Arousal problems
- Orgasmic problems
- Sexual pain disorder
Most sexually active women have had pain during sex at some point in their lives. If it occurs often or is severe, this condition is referred to the sexual pain disorder. It can be caused by a number of problems, including endometriosis, a pelvic mass, ovarian cysts, vaginitis, and poor lubrication, the presence of scar tissue from surgery or a sexually transmitted disease. A condition called vaginismus is a painful, involuntary spasm of the muscles that surround the vaginal entrance. It may occur in women who fear that penetration will be painful and also may stem from a sexual phobia or from a previous traumatic or painful experience.
Causes of female Sexual problems:
The causes of sexual problems are as varied and complex as the human race. Any of the following can contribute to sexual problems:
Insufficient stimulation: A woman’s lack of knowledge about sexual stimulation and response may prevent a woman from achieving a satisfactory experience. Poor communication between partners can also be a culprit here.
Gynecologic problems: A number of pelvic disorders can cause pain in intercourse and thus decrease satisfaction.
Vaginal dryness: The most common reason for this in younger women is insufficient stimulation. In older women, the decrease in estrogen that occurs in menopause is the cause of vaginal dryness. Poor lubrication can also be linked to hormone imbalances and other illnesses and to certain medications. It can inhibit arousal or make intercourse uncomfortable.
Vaginismus: This is a painful spasm of the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening that causes the vaginal opening to “tighten.” It can prevent penetration or make penetration extremely painful. Vaginismus can be caused by injuries or scars from surgery, abuse, or childbirth, by infection, or by irritation from douches, spermicides, or condoms. It can also be caused by fear.
Sexually transmitted diseases – Gonorrhea, herpes, genital warts, Chlamydia, and syphilis are infectious diseases spread by sexual contact. They can cause changes in the genitals that make sex uncomfortable or even painful.
Vaginitis: Inflammation and irritation of vaginal tissues due to infection or other causes can make intercourse uncomfortable or painful.
Nerve damage after surgery: Unavoidable cutting of small nerves during pelvic surgery (such as hysterectomy) may decrease sensation and response.
Physical conditions: Many physical or medical conditions can decrease a woman’s satisfaction with her sex life.
- Tiredness (fatigue)
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, kidney
- Cancer
- Neurologic disorders
- Vascular (blood flow) disorders
- Hormonal imbalances