Female sexual dysfunction

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Causes of sexual dysfunction

Overview	Treatment

Female sexual dysfunction

Definition

Sexual dysfunction in women may involve a reduction in sex drive, aversion to sexual activity, difficulty becoming aroused, inability to achieve orgasm, or pain with sexual activity or intercourse.

Alternative Names

Frigidity; Sexual dysfunction - female

Considerations

Traditionally, sexual dysfunction in women was thought to be largely due to psychologic problems. Recent research is beginning to uncover many organic causes for sexual problems in women. While many sexual problems have an underlying psychologic component, possible organic causes must be ruled out in the initial investigation.

Causes

Communication problems with partner
Anxiety or depression
Feelings of guilt and shame about sex
Fear of pain, infection, or being pregnant
History of sexual abuse
Lack of appropriate stimulation
Lack of lubrication
Changes related to menopause
Damage to nerves due to surgery or trauma
Medication
Infection or gynecological disease

Review Date: 5/11/2004
Reviewed By: Sharon Roseanne Thompson, M.D., M.P.H., Clinical Fellow, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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