Your Sexual Health

I'm having a problem with sex. Is this common?

Yes. About 4 in 10 women experience sexual problems at some point in their lives. While it can be concerning, many issues have solutions. You can address them individually, with a partner, or with guidance from an obstetrician-gynecologist (Ob-Gyn) or another healthcare professional.

Several factors can contribute to sexual problems, including:

  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause)

  • Cancer treatments and their side effects

  • Illnesses and certain medications

  • Relationship issues

  • Past negative experiences

  • Depression, anxiety, or stress

Types of Sexual Problems

What are the different types of sexual dysfunction?

Sexual dysfunction can be classified into several categories, which often overlap:

  • Lack of desire

  • Arousal problems

  • Orgasmic problems

  • Sexual pain

  • Medication or substance-induced sexual dysfunction

Lack of desire is common and can occur at any age. It may not be a concern unless it persists for at least six months and causes distress. Signs of desire problems include:

  • No interest in sexual activity, including masturbation

  • Few or no sexual thoughts or fantasies

  • Lack of initiation of sexual activity

  • No pleasure from sexual experiences

Arousal, Orgasm, and Pain Disorders

What are arousal problems?

Arousal issues occur when there is an inability to experience mental or physical excitement. Contributing factors include:

  • Self-esteem issues

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Lack of exercise and sleep

  • Certain medications (e.g., antidepressants)

  • Alcohol or drug use

  • Relationship conflicts

Some women struggle with reaching orgasm, experiencing:

  • Delayed orgasms

  • Fewer or less intense orgasms

  • Lack of orgasm altogether

  • Difficulty recognizing the sensation of orgasm Orgasmic dysfunction may stem from health conditions, mental health issues, relationship changes, or pelvic surgeries.

Sexual pain disorders include vaginismus (involuntary vaginal muscle tightening) and dyspareunia (pain during intercourse). Symptoms may include:

  • Vaginal pain, tension, or burning

  • Reduced sexual desire due to discomfort

  • Avoidance of intercourse due to fear of pain

  • Sexual pain post-pregnancy

  • Get enough sleep

  • Practice Kegel exercises

  • Increase time spent on foreplay