At Summit Women’s & Wellness Medical Group in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Dr. Renee Obey is committed to promoting comprehensive women’s health education. One sensitive but highly significant topic that often goes unaddressed is sexual dysfunction in women. Despite being common, many women feel uncomfortable discussing issues related to desire, arousal, orgasm, or pain during intercourse. This silence can delay diagnosis and treatment, leading to a decline in physical intimacy, emotional well-being, and relationship satisfaction. Understanding sexual dysfunction—what causes it, how it is evaluated, and the available treatment options—can empower women to seek help and restore a healthy, fulfilling sex life.
What Is Female Sexual Dysfunction?
Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) refers to persistent or recurring problems with sexual response, desire, orgasm, or pain that cause distress or interfere with a woman’s ability to enjoy sexual activity. While occasional sexual difficulties are normal and often influenced by factors like stress or fatigue, dysfunction is considered a clinical concern when symptoms last for six months or more and have a negative impact on quality of life.
FSD is a broad term encompassing several distinct conditions. These include hypoactive sexual desire disorder (low or absent libido), sexual arousal disorder (difficulty becoming or staying aroused), orgasmic disorder (inability or difficulty achieving orgasm), and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (pain during intercourse or difficulty with vaginal penetration). These issues may occur separately or overlap, creating a complex interplay of physical, psychological, and relational challenges.
It is estimated that up to 40% of women may experience some form of sexual dysfunction at some point in their lives. Despite its prevalence, many women suffer in silence due to embarrassment, lack of awareness, or the misconception that sexual concerns are not medical issues worth discussing. Recognizing the legitimacy of these concerns is the first step toward healing.
Contributing Factors to Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual response in women is influenced by a delicate balance of hormonal, neurological, psychological, and interpersonal factors. Disruption in any of these areas can result in dysfunction. Understanding the root causes is essential to forming an effective treatment plan.
Physiological contributors include hormonal imbalances, such as low estrogen or testosterone levels, which can affect libido, lubrication, and sensitivity. Menopause, childbirth, breastfeeding, and medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and cardiovascular disease may also play a role. Additionally, medications such as antidepressants, antihypertensives, and hormonal contraceptives are known to interfere with sexual function.
Psychological and emotional health are equally important. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, and body image issues can diminish desire or disrupt sexual satisfaction. Past trauma, including sexual abuse, may also impact a woman’s ability to feel safe or comfortable with sexual intimacy. Relationship dynamics—such as communication issues, unresolved conflicts, or lack of emotional connection—can further complicate matters, leading to a cycle of avoidance and emotional distress.
Given the multifactorial nature of FSD, an integrated approach that considers all potential influences is crucial for identifying the underlying causes and restoring healthy function.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Sexual dysfunction manifests in a variety of ways, and its impact can differ significantly from one woman to another. Some women may experience a complete loss of interest in sex, while others may feel frustrated by an inability to become aroused or achieve orgasm. Pain, dryness, or tightness during intercourse may also contribute to avoidance of sexual activity, which can strain relationships and self-esteem.
Key symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent low sexual desire or aversion to sexual activity
- Difficulty becoming physically aroused or staying aroused
- Inability or delay in reaching orgasm, despite adequate stimulation
- Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) or fear of penetration
- Emotional distress or relationship difficulties stemming from sexual problems
Because many women assume these issues are a normal part of aging or simply “in their head,” they may not seek help. However, these symptoms are not only real but treatable. Bringing them to the attention of a healthcare provider can open the door to a better understanding and resolution of the problem.
How Sexual Dysfunction Is Evaluated
The evaluation of female sexual dysfunction requires a compassionate, comprehensive approach. A detailed medical and sexual history is the foundation of diagnosis, offering insights into the timeline of symptoms, any triggering events, and their impact on the woman’s emotional and relational well-being. Questions may explore menstrual history, hormonal changes, previous trauma, relationship status, mental health, and medication use.
A physical exam can help identify anatomical or physiological issues that may be contributing to symptoms, such as vaginal atrophy, infections, or pelvic floor dysfunction. Lab tests may be ordered to evaluate hormone levels or rule out conditions like thyroid imbalance or diabetes. In some cases, additional tools such as pelvic ultrasound or referral to a specialist may be recommended.
Equally important is assessing the psychological and relational aspects of the dysfunction. Screening tools and questionnaires—such as the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)—can help quantify the severity of symptoms and guide treatment planning. In many instances, a multidisciplinary team approach involving gynecologists, therapists, and pelvic floor physical therapists may be most beneficial.
Treatment Options and Approaches
Treatment for female sexual dysfunction depends on the underlying cause and may involve one or more types of intervention. Because FSD is often multifactorial, combining medical, psychological, and lifestyle strategies tends to yield the best outcomes.
For hormonal imbalances, estrogen therapy (topical or systemic), testosterone supplementation, or other hormonal medications may be prescribed. These treatments can improve libido, reduce vaginal dryness, and restore vaginal tissue health. Addressing any contributing medical conditions or adjusting medications that interfere with sexual function is another important step.
Psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help women address anxiety, body image concerns, or trauma that may be affecting their sexual response. Couples counseling can also be effective in improving communication and intimacy between partners. When anxiety or depression is present, proper treatment with medication or therapy may significantly enhance sexual function.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is particularly useful in cases involving pain, tension, or dysfunction of the pelvic muscles. These therapists use specialized techniques to improve muscle tone, flexibility, and coordination, which can enhance comfort and arousal during sexual activity.
Lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise, stress management, improved sleep, and open communication with a partner—can also make a meaningful difference. Additionally, use of lubricants or vaginal moisturizers can help alleviate discomfort from dryness, especially during menopause.
Removing the Stigma and Encouraging Open Discussion
One of the biggest obstacles to addressing sexual dysfunction is the stigma surrounding it. Women are often socialized to feel shame or embarrassment when discussing their sexuality, especially if something is “wrong.” This silence can lead to isolation, self-doubt, and prolonged suffering.
Education and open dialogue are essential to dismantling these barriers. By normalizing conversations about sexual health, society can empower women to speak up, seek help, and advocate for their well-being. Healthcare providers play a key role in this process by creating a nonjudgmental environment where patients feel safe sharing intimate concerns.
It is also important to understand that sexual health is a legitimate and integral part of overall health. Just as we seek help for physical pain or emotional distress, we should feel equally entitled to support when our sexual wellness is disrupted. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward reclaiming control, connection, and confidence.
Final Thoughts
Sexual dysfunction is a common but often overlooked condition that can affect women of all ages. Whether related to hormonal changes, psychological stress, relationship difficulties, or physical discomfort, the impact on a woman’s quality of life can be profound. Fortunately, effective evaluation and treatment options are available for those who take the first step by speaking up.
At Summit Women’s & Wellness Medical Group in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, Dr. Renee Obey encourages women to prioritize their sexual health as an essential part of their overall well-being. Through compassionate care and informed education, women can reclaim comfort, confidence, and connection in their intimate lives.
Resources
- Brotto, L. A., & Luria, M. (2014). Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder in Women. BMJ Best Practice.
- Kingsberg, S. A. (2002). The Impact of Aging on Sexual Function in Women and Their Partners. Archives of Sexual Behavior.
- Basson, R. (2001). Using a Different Model for Female Sexual Response to Address Women’s Problem with Sexual Desire. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy.