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
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 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
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