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Female sexual problems

Many women have problems with sex at some stage in their life. Here's a look at some forms of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and advice on where to get help if it affects you.

According to the Sexual Advice Association, sexual problems affect around one-third of young and middle-aged women, and around half of older women.

Dysfunction can include:

To identify the reasons behind sexual dysfunction, both physical and psychological factors have to be considered, including a woman's relationship with her partner.

Loss of desire

Loss of desire, or lack of sex drive, affects some women at certain times of life, such as during pregnancy, after having a baby, or times of stress. But some women experience it all the time.

A lack of sex drive can have a range of physical or psychological causes, including:

Sex drive can also fall if a woman's natural testosterone levels drop. Testosterone is produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands, so levels can drop if these are removed or they're not functioning properly.

Orgasm problems

These can be divided into two types:

  • primary - when a woman has never had an orgasm
  • secondary - when a woman has had an orgasm in the past, but can't now

Some women don't need to have an orgasm to enjoy sex, but an inability to reach orgasm can be a problem for some women and their partners.

Reasons why a woman can't have an orgasm can include:

  • fear or lack of knowledge about sex
  • being unable to "let go"
  • not enough effective stimulation
  • relationship problems
  • mood disorders - such as depression
  • previous traumatic sexual experience

Research is being done into certain medical conditions that affect the blood and nerve supply to the clitoris to see whether this affects orgasm.

Read What is an orgasm? to find out more.

Psychosexual therapy can help a woman overcome orgasm problems. It involves exploring her feelings about sex, her relationship and herself.

Find out what sex therapists do.

Pain during sex

Vaginismus

Pain during sex - also called dyspareunia - can be a result of vaginismus.

Vaginismus is when muscles in or around the vagina go into spasm, making sexual intercourse painful or impossible. It can be very upsetting and distressing.

It can occur if the woman associates sex with pain or being "wrong", or if she's had vaginal trauma, such as childbirth or an episiotomy.

It can also stem from relationship problems, fear of pregnancy, or painful conditions of the vagina and the surrounding area.

It can be treated by focusing on sex education, counselling and using vaginal trainers, also known as vaginal dilators.

Vaginal trainers are cylindrical shapes that are inserted into the vagina. A woman will gradually use larger sizes until the largest size can be inserted comfortably. Some women may wish to try using their fingers instead.

Sex after menopause

Pain during sex is common after the menopause as oestrogen levels fall and the vagina feels dry.

This can affect a woman's desire for sex, but there are lubrication creams that can help. Ask your GP or pharmacist.

Female genital mutilation

Women who have experienced female genital mutilation (FGM) can find it difficult and painful to have sex.

FGM is where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there is no medical reason for this to be done.

It can also result in reduced sexual desire and a lack of pleasurable sensation.

Talk to your GP or another healthcare professional if you have sexual problems that you feel may be the result of FGM, as they can refer you to a therapist who can help.

Getting help

To find out what is causing a sexual problem and how to treat it, a doctor, practice nurse or therapist will need to ask you questions about your medical, sexual and social history.

Your GP or practice nurse can carry out tests for underlying medical conditions.

If your problem is related to lack of hormones such as testosterone or oestrogen, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help.

Treating other conditions, such as diabetes or depression, might also alleviate symptoms of sexual dysfunction.

Sex therapy

Sexual therapy can help. Talk with your partner about your problem, and see a therapist together if you can. Don't be embarrassed. Many people experience sexual dysfunction and there are ways to get help.

Your GP can refer you to a therapist, or you can see one privately. Look for a therapist who is an accredited member of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists.

This means they will be fully qualified and able to advise on physical, psychological and medical factors that can affect sexual wellbeing. 

If needed, they can also refer you to a GP or another medical practitioner, who can carry out the required tests or examination.  

More information

The Sexual Advice Association offers sexual health factsheets on topics ranging from loss of sex drive to talking to your GP about sexual problems, and ageing and sex.

Read about good sex tips to find out how to learn what you like and what works for you.

Find sexual health services near you.

Article provided by NHS Choices

See original on NHS Choices

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