Female sexual problems

A sexual problem is something that keeps sex from being satisfying or positive. Most people have symptoms of a sexual problem at one time or another. For some, the symptoms are ongoing. But your symptoms are only a sexual problem if they bother you or cause problems in your relationship.

There is no "normal" level of sexual response. It's different for everyone. You may also find that what's normal at one stage of your life changes at another stage. For example, it's common for an exhausted parent of a baby to have little interest in sex. And it's common for people to have lower sex drives as they age.

Symptoms of sexual problems can include:

• Less desire. You may have fewer sexual fantasies or thoughts. You may not want to have sex.
• Less arousal. You may notice that you're not interested when a partner makes sexual suggestions. You may not be able to feel or maintain sexual excitement.
• Being unable to reach orgasm.
• Pain during sex.

These symptoms are problems only if they bother you or cause problems in your relationship with a partner.

Your doctor will work with you to identify your symptoms and may:

• Ask questions about your past health problems and the medicines you take.
• Ask questions about your sexual history.
• Do a physical exam, in some cases. This may include a pelvic exam if you're having pain during sex.
• Order tests, if needed. For example, blood tests can check hormone levels and thyroid function.

Treatment will depend on the cause and the type of sexual problem you're having. Treatment may include:

• Treating any physical causes. This may include:
  • Using hormones, such as estrogen.
  • Taking steps to relieve pain or vaginal dryness.
  • Taking medicines.
  • Changing medicines that may cause sexual problems.
  • Doing pelvic floor physical therapy.
• Using counseling-based therapies. They can help you learn how to talk openly with your partner. You may also learn more about your body, your sexual signals and receptors, and changes in sexuality as you get older. Therapies may include:
  • Getting counseling for you and your partner.
  • Getting psychological therapy. This often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Using sex therapy.

It's important to feel comfortable talking with your doctor. What works for one person may not work for another. So the more you can tell your doctor, the more the doctor will be able to help you.