Sexual wellness is an important part of overall health, yet concerns about sexual function are often underreported. Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is common and can affect women of all ages. It may involve changes in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm or pain during sexual activity that cause personal distress.
Because many different physical, emotional and relationship factors can contribute, identifying the underlying cause is an important first step toward finding an appropriate treatment.
Female sexual dysfunction is an umbrella term that describes several conditions affecting sexual function. These concerns may occur individually or together and can vary over time.
Some women experience symptoms only during certain stages of life, while others may notice gradual changes related to menopause, chronic health conditions or emotional well-being.
Symptoms may include:
Persistent symptoms that cause distress should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Sexual function is influenced by many systems throughout the body.
Potential contributing factors include:
Hormonal fluctuations during menopause, perimenopause, pregnancy and postpartum recovery may influence libido, vaginal lubrication and comfort during intimacy.
Conditions such as:
may affect sexual function in some women.
Certain medications, including some antidepressants and blood pressure medications, may contribute to changes in sexual desire or arousal.
Stress, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, relationship challenges and past experiences can all influence sexual wellness.
Evaluation typically begins with a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, medications and lifestyle factors.
Depending on your symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend:
The goal is to identify any underlying medical or emotional factors that may be contributing.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and is individualized for each patient.
Depending on your provider's evaluation, recommendations may include:
Some women may be candidates for prescription therapies such as bremelanotide (PT-141) after evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. Whether a particular therapy is appropriate depends on your medical history, symptoms and overall health.
Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if:
Early evaluation may help identify treatable contributing factors.
Female sexual dysfunction is common, and help is available. Many women benefit from discussing their concerns with a healthcare provider who can identify contributing factors and recommend an individualized treatment plan.
TeleWellnessMD® connects patients with licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate symptoms, discuss treatment options and determine whether prescription therapies may be appropriate.
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Female sexual dysfunction refers to conditions involving changes in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm or pain during sexual activity that cause personal distress.
Hormonal changes, chronic medical conditions, medications, emotional health, relationship concerns and lifestyle factors may all contribute.
Many women benefit from individualized treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, counseling, pelvic floor therapy, hormone evaluation or prescription therapies when appropriate.
If symptoms persist, cause distress or interfere with your quality of life or relationships, it's important to seek a professional evaluation.