Sexual dysfunction is a problem that can affect women of any age at any time.
Women who are between the ages of 35 to 65 however are more likely to suffer
from sexual dysfunction. It is at this time of life that women describe a
pattern of sexual response that is perceived as a problem by the woman and/or
her sexual partner.
The Sexual Response The human sexual response is complicated. Most women will go through many
different physiological changes during sexual arousal. These changes may begin
with the initial period of excitement, where the vaginal wall becomes lubricated
and the skin becomes flushed. This stage is typically followed by a plateau,
where muscle tension is built up and blood congestion occurs in the vagina. This
is typically followed by orgasm and resolution, where most women will experience
a decline in sexual tension and release
Many Factors can Influence your Sexual Function and Response
Your Environment
Overall Health
Biological and Hormonal Changes
Emotional Well Being
Interpersonal Relationship
Socio Cultural Influences
Sexuality over the Course of a Lifetime Most women's sexuality and sexual response changes and develops over the course
of their lifetime. These changes may be the result of personal experiences,
interests, cultural attitudes, behaviors and other factors.
The biological and hormonal changes that typically occur during midlife often
impact sexuality most abruptly. Understanding these changes may be the first
step toward overcoming sexual dysfunction.
One of the hallmarks of midlife is a decline in estrogen, a female hormone
produced in the ovaries. As a woman approaches menopause, varying ovarian
function often leads to a drop in estrogen levels over time. This can result in
a decreased blood flow to the vagina, which may ultimately affect sexual
function.
Other changes that result from this decline include vaginal dryness and
decreased elasticity of the vaginal wall. The clitoris may also change, becoming
less sensitive in some cases and smaller in size.
Most women do not realize that they produce more testosterone, a male hormone
responsible for libido or sex drive, than estrogen. Over time the production of
testosterone declines in women and may result in contributing to sexual
dysfunction.
Men also may experience a decrease in testosterone production over time, which
may result in decreased penile sensitivity and diminished blood flow. It is
important to recognize this very important fact of aging, so that women realize
they are not alone. Such changes in their partner may cause them to withdraw
from intimacy, having a profound impact on a woman's desire and sexual response.
Decreased libido and sexual desire are common among women during the years
preceding menopause.
Other Factors that may Impact Sexual Function May Include
A woman's sense of well being and self esteem.
Partner health and availability. Women tend to live longer than men, and
many find themselves without a partner after the age of 50.
Health history.
Moral beliefs, which may discourage sexual feelings after a certain age.
Performance anxiety related to vaginal changes or a failure to feel
satisfied after intercourse.
Relationship issues, such are changes in communication or boredom with
the sexual routine over time.
Medical issues or medications such as use of certain anti-depressants,
which may diminish sexual response.
Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction If you are suffering from sexual dysfunction, the good news is there are many
treatments that may prove beneficial. Many effective non-pharmacological
interventions are available that may improve sexual dysfunction. In some women,
medications may be tried if the nonpharmacologic interventions do not help
achieve sexual satisfaction.
Nonpharmacologic Treatment of Sexual Dysfunction
Believe it or not, the less frequently you have sex the more common
sexual dysfunction is. Regular sexual activity maintains the chemical
balance in the vagina and helps maintain an increase blood flow. Therefore,
a treatment plan should include regular sexual activity. The benefits of
regular sexual activity are similar with copulation, masturbation and sexual
fantasy.
Communication with your partner to discuss any fears, embarrassment or
issues you may have regarding midlife change can increase sexual
satisfaction.
Lifestyle changes can have a positive influence on sexual satisfaction.
Such as getting in better physical shape, by quitting smoking and starting
an exercise routine. Increased stamina will increase libido, decrease
depression and do wonders for you body image.
The use of vaginal weights helps strengthen and tone the muscles in the
genital area. This may not only improve awareness of sexual response but may
help with urine leakage. You should use vaginal weights in an upright
position for 15 minutes twice a day. Advance to a heavier weight when the
urge to hold it disappears.
Increased tactile stimulation will increase blood flow to the genitals.
The increase blood flow will increase sensation and arousal. A little extra
manual or oral stimulation may be all that is needed to increase sexual
satisfaction.
How frequent you have sex comes down to what is comfortable for you and
your partner. There is no right or wrong answer for sexual frequency. Open
communication is key to resolving problems when it comes to how frequent is
enough?
Breaking the routine of sexual encounters can be satisfying. Try
changing the time of day, varying the positions or location that deviates
from your normal or expected routine. Breaking the habit of what is usual
and expected can lead to more dynamic and exciting sexual relations.
Treatments of Sexual Dysfunction with Medications
Estrogen improves lubrication and elasticity of the vagina that may help
with sexual dysfunction associated with vaginal dryness. It can also help
with improving mood swings and irritability that may decrease sexual
arousal.
Androgens, such as testosterone, normally play an important function in
female sexual response. Did you know the ovaries are a major producer of
testosterone in women? If you have had both your ovaries removed or are in
your menopausal years, you have a decrease in testosterone blood levels.
This decrease in testosterone may lead to decreased sexual energy (decreased
libido). Many studies have shown a positive improvement in sexual function
after the administration of androgen therapy.
Herbal therapies such as “yohimbine” and “ginkgo biloba” have been used
for enhanced desire, arousal and orgasms in women. The information for
herbal therapies for treatment of sexual dysfunction is lacking in the
medical literature.
Tibolone (Livial-Organon) is a hormonal replacement drug that has
androgenic properties that may help improve sexual function. It is currently
available in Europe and Australia. It is believed it will gain FDA approval
in the United States as well.
Viagra (Sildenafil) has shown positive effects in women who have
problems with arousal and orgasm. It is currently under investigation to
help women with sexual dysfunction.
Where to Find More Information If there are medical conditions that are the cause of sexual dysfunction, your
physician can work with you to develop a treatment plan that specifically
addresses any underlying issues, thus resolving any biological problems that may
be contributing to sexual dysfunction.
