Sexual Dysfunction
An overview
A normal sexual activity involves attraction, arousal, pleasure and orgasm. Sexual dysfunction refers to a difficulty experienced during any aspect of the normal sexual activity that prevents one or both the partners from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity. Sexual dysfunction is generally a result of a physical or psychological problem and it is common in both men and women. In men, erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature or delayed ejaculation are most common forms of sexual dysfunction, while in women it is vagina dryness and pain while doing sexual intercourse. It can also include problems with sexual desire (libido) and response. Several research suggets that more than 40% of women and 30% of men experience sexual dysfunction at some stage, yet many people are hesitant to discuss this issue.
Symptoms & Signs
In males, common symptoms of sexual dysfunction are -
  • Erectile Dysfunction - A condition in which you are unable to achieve or maintain an erection. Not achieving an erection once in a while is nothing to worry about but if happens on a consistent and repeated basis, then it could be sign of ED.
  • Ejaculation Disorders such as premature or delayed ejaculation.
  • Loss of interest or desire for sex - Reduced libido can be the result of physical or psychological and low levels of the hormone testosterone are also associated with low sexual desire.

    • In females, common symptoms of sexual dysfunction are -
  • Loss of sexual desire - This involves a lack of desire in sex.
  • Difficulty achieve orgasm - The absence of sexual climax during sexual intercourse.
  • Inability to get aroused - The difficulty in becoming physically aroused during sexual activity means insufficient vaginal lubrication, which could be due to anxiety.
    • Causes
    Sexual dysfunction is generally a result of a physical or psychological problem. Sexual dysfunction is generally a result of a physical or psychological problem.
  • Physical Causes: Many medical conditions can result in sexual dysfunction, and these include condition such as diabetes, heart disease, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, chronic diseases such as kidney/liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. In addition, certain medications have side effects on sexual desire and function.
  • Psychological Causes - The 2 biggest psychological causes of low sexual desire are depression and fatigue. Other causes include relationship issues, stress and anxiety, overconcern about sexual performance, feelings of guilt etc. People with body image issues also experience lack of sexual desire.
    Resentment and anger in a relationship are also major causes of libido loss esp in married couple. If a partner is overly critical or too dominant, then anger steps in and dampens the sexual desire.
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