Women's magazines. Radio talk shows. Oprah. They all talk about it. Female sexuality, sexual health and a woman's sex drive are all topics growing in popularity.
Female sexual dysfunction, or FSD, is not technically a disease; rather, it is a syndrome that is characterized by a loss of libido, lack of desire for intimacy, a diminished sex drive, an inability to reach orgasm and possibly even pain during sex. The common thread is that all these symptoms and conditions describe potential factors that render a woman's sex life, and that of her partner, less than satisfying.
So if everyone's talking about female sexuality, why is it so hard to talk about?
Talking candidly and honestly about sex doesn't come easily for most people. Talking frankly about sex is particularly difficult if you're discussing your own sexual problems.
Researchers estimate that more than four in ten women experience the symptoms of sexual dysfunction at some point in their lives. Whether you're experiencing pain during intercourse, trouble reaching orgasm or simply a low libido, FSD can be a difficult topic to bring up with your partner, no matter how close you are.
Every woman deserves a healthy, fulfilling sex life. Many factors can make you feel unhappy or unfulfilled sexually. However, no matter what the cause of FSD, talking to both your doctor and your partner is one of the first steps in overcoming FSD.
If you're suffering from one or more symptoms of FSD, the first step is to try to identify the cause. Is a lack of emotional intimacy with your partner affecting your libido? Are you taking any medications that affect sex drive? Do you feel self-conscious about your body or your sexuality? Are you feeling depressed, stressed or anxious?
Once you identify what you think is the cause of your symptoms, talking to both your doctor and your partner about your concerns will be much easier.
Once you've identified possible sources of your low libido, the time has come to talk to your doctor. You may be nervous about bringing up such personal issues with your physician, but a few strategies can make your doctor's visit easier:
Your doctor may be able to help with medication, strategies, or recommendations for therapy. You can't expect your doctor to guess what's wrong if you can't tell her (or him) what the problem is.
Even in the strongest of relationships, initiating a conversation about sexual dissatisfaction can be daunting. Initiate the conversation in a setting that is comfortable for both of you and where you can be honest with your partner.
The conversation, while uncomfortable, could eventually bring the two of you closer sexually as well as emotionally. Your partner is your most important ally in the development of a satisfying sex life.
Phillips, N, A. (2000). Sexual dysfunction in women. Retrieved December 1, 2008, from the Family Doctor Web site: http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/reproductive/sex-dys/612.html.
The Mayo Clinic (2008). Female sexual dysfunction. Retrieved November 24, 2008, from the Mayo Clinic Web site: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/female-sexual-dysfunction/DS00701.
The McKesson Corporation (2005). Sexual problems. Retrieved December 1, 2008, from the Fairview Web site: http://www.fairview.org/healthlibrary/content/bha_psycholo_bha.htm.
Tree.com provides information on health-related topics, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your physician if you have questions or concerns.