When you think of sexual dysfunction, men probably come to mind. Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and other male-dominant issues tend to garner more attention than those things you can’t see, such as stress, depression, and past trauma.
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, however, sexual dysfunction is common in women and is defined as any persistent problem that interferes with a woman’s ability to experience sexual pleasure. This includes difficulty with arousal, orgasm, or pain during sex.
What causes sexual dysfunction in women?
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are many different things that might trigger intimacy issues. These can be physical or psychological.
Physical:
- Hormonal changes. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, fluctuations in hormone levels can have a significant impact on a woman’s sexual function. This is especially true during menopause, when declining estrogen levels can cause dryness, pain during sex, and an overall decreased libido.
- Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as neurological disorders, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, can make it more difficult for a woman to become physically aroused during intimate contact.
- Medications. Antihistamines, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers can decrease libido or cause vaginal dryness.
- Surgery. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that any type of surgery that involves the pelvic region or reproductive organs can cause scarring, damage to nerve tissue, and sensitivity.
- Alcohol and drug use. While many women find a glass of wine helps them wind down and get in the mood, excessive alcohol consumption and drug use can have a negative impact on sexual function by causing fatigue and decreasing libido.
Psychological
Marla Ahlgrimm says that physical disorders are not the only reason a woman might have trouble enjoying sexual intercourse.
- Stress and anxiety. There is no question that stress and anxiety can have an equally negative impact on the body. The cortisol buildup can also trigger sexual dysfunction by interfering with the one’s ability to become aroused.
- Depression. Depression can cause waning sexual desire along with a loss of interest in pleasurable activities, decreased energy levels, and distancing from relationships. Marla Ahlgrimm explains, however, that some women may become oversexual during times of depression in an effort to feel some sort of connection.
- Relationship problems. Marla Ahlgrimm says that relationship problems cause more sexual dysfunction than one might think. Poor communication between partners, a lack of trust, unresolved conflicts, and infidelity are all reasons that a couple may decrease their intimacy.
- Negative body image. Many women suffer from negative body image or body dysmorphia. This can make her feel as though she is not desirable, and she may reflect her own feelings of poor self-worth as coming from her partner.
Treatment
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, the treatment for sexual dysfunction in women depends on the underlying cause. Some women may find that hormone therapy can help, particularly in the cases of menopause. There are also medications, including lidocaine creams, that may reduce pain during intimacy. Marla Ahlgrimm also says that some women can benefit from counseling and lifestyle changes.
All relationships deserve to have a healthy sex life. However, hormones, depression, and other issues can have a negative effect. If you and your partner are having trouble achieving intimacy because of female sexual dysfunction, Marla Ahlgrimm recommends visiting a healthcare professional.
Marla Ahlgrimm has co-authored two ground-breaking books,