S3xual dysfunction is a common problem among women and it is said that a great percentage of women have persistent problems with s3x; little or no s3x drive, trouble reaching an orgasm or pain during intercourse.
Satisfying s3x involves the body, mind, health, beliefs and feelings toward your partner among other factors. There are many factors that may be responsible for sexual problems in women. And below are some possible causes behind
Medical or physical conditions: Some diseases; heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, nerve conditions such as multiple sclerosis, and even fatigue can make s3x uncomfortable or painful as they can make it hard for a woman to get aroused or climax during s3x.
Scarring from surgery or radiation treatment in the vagina opening or in other parts of the genital area also can change s3xual experience, likewise s3xual infections like genital herpes.
Hormonal imbalance or physical changes due to pregnancy (especially during the third trimester), childbirth making genitals less sensitive as a result of difficult delivery, breastfeeding causing low estrogen levels leading to vaginal dryness or menopause can cause lack of libido.
Mental and emotional issues: The right mood and a healthy, respectful connection with your partner play an important role in s3xual intimacy. This may be affected by certain factors that leave you feeling self-conscious, fearful, or uninterested. Such factors include depression, anxiety, stress, past s3xual abuse and low self-esteem.
There are also factors associated with medications, drugs and alcohol use: Drinking can make orgasm longer to achieve or feel less intense while tobacco smoking and long-term use of heroin and other illegal drugs also can lead to sexual problems while some medications can make s3x less pleasurable, dampen s3x drive or cause vaginal discomfort.
Medications that can affect s3xual health include high blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, epilepsy drugs, certain cancer drugs, steroids and medication for urinary tract infection.
It is important to see a doctor for treatments and other help immediately if you suddenly have pain or unusual symptoms during s3x, like a headache, or if you think you’ve been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease.
For other kinds of s3xual dysfunction, a range of therapies can help. Medical treatments may include drugs to raise low libido (desire for s3x), kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles to help achieve better orgasm, anti-inflammatory drugs to take before intercourse to lower pain.
Nonmedical treatments include open communication between partners, making time for s3x, improving intimacy with partner, avoiding intake of alcohol and drugs, embracing healthy habits like getting exercise and eating a healthy diet, therapy or counseling to help manage stress or anxiety and work through feelings of fear or shame in regards to s3x.
Others include vaginal lubricant for dryness or lessen pain during s3x, vibrators and other tools to enhance arousal or learning techniques on how to reduce distractions and be more present during s3x.
ALSO READ: One year after, Nigeria not working under Tinubu — Atiku