#HealthBytes: Common female sex problems, and how to cure them
A healthy sex life is crucial for a couple's overall mental, physical and emotional well-being. Sex is supposed to be enjoyable, but in case it's not, something needs to be fixed. A sex problem or sexual dysfunction can be anything that prevents you from getting desired satisfaction from sexual intercourse/activity. Here are 5 common sex problems in women, and what to do about them.
What leads to sexual dysfunction in women
Sexual dysfunction in women can be caused by a range of medical, lifestyle, and psychological reasons. Medical conditions leading to sexual problems might include high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid, and menopause, among others. Drugs and certain medications such as sedatives, antidepressants and painkillers might also be the culprit. Other causes include psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and body image issues.
Low sexual drive
In the years leading up to menopause, women may suffer from loss of libido. However, age isn't the only factor responsible. Medical issues such as diabetes and low/high blood pressure can also contribute to lowering of lust, while psychological problems like stress or depression may also reduce sexual desire. See your doctor to get to the root of the problem, and seek apt treatment.
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness happens on account of hormonal changes that might occur during breastfeeding or menopause. In fact, according to a study of 1,000 postmenopausal women, published in the journal Menopause, 50% of postmenopausal women suffer from vaginal dryness. To deal with it, one might consider using an over-the-counter lubricant, before and during intercourse. If the problem still refuses to go, contact your doctor.
Inability to get aroused
A woman's inability to get aroused could be due to a number of reasons. These include (sexual) anxiety, lack of proper foreplay, and non-pleasurable or painful intercourse. Other reasons could be hormonal disturbance due to menopause, or the partner's sexual issues such as erectile dysfunction. Talk to a health-care professional to figure out the underlying cause, and get the required treatment.
Painful intercourse
According to a 2015 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, about 30% of women suffer from pain during vaginal intercourse. Underlying reasons include lack of foreplay and vaginal dryness. It could be because of certain medical conditions such as childbirth, surgery, menopause, some skin issues. If you experience pain during sex, see your doctor to get treatment for the underlying cause.
Difficulty reaching orgasm
Reportedly, around 5% of perimenopausal women suffer difficulty in reaching orgasm. Apart from the hormones, reasons that might lead to the problem include anxiety, improper foreplay, chronic diseases, and certain medications. To reach orgasm, it is advisable to try newer positions and styles, being more mindful during sex, and paying more attention to foreplay. However, if you still can't reach climax, see your doctor.
Tips to prevent sexual dysfunction in women
Although sexual problems cannot be avoided altogether, here are certain tips to help you maintain good sexual function: 1) Religiously follow your doctor's treatment plan for any medical conditions. 2) Quit smoking, and limit your alcohol intake as well. 3) Improve communication with your partner. 4) Get rid of mental health issues like stress, anxiety and depression. Seek treatment if required.
