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.

What Is Female Sexual Dysfunction?

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.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Reduced sexual desire
• Difficulty becoming or remaining aroused
• Difficulty reaching orgasm
• Pain or discomfort during sexual activity
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced sexual satisfaction
• Anxiety related to sexual activity

Persistent symptoms that cause distress should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

What Causes Female Sexual Dysfunction?

Sexual function is influenced by many systems throughout the body.

Potential contributing factors include:

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations during menopause, perimenopause, pregnancy and postpartum recovery may influence libido, vaginal lubrication and comfort during intimacy.

Medical Conditions

Conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Chronic pain
• Neurological disorders

may affect sexual function in some women.

Medications

Certain medications, including some antidepressants and blood pressure medications, may contribute to changes in sexual desire or arousal.

Emotional and Relationship Factors

Stress, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, relationship challenges and past experiences can all influence sexual wellness.

How Is Female Sexual Dysfunction Diagnosed?

Evaluation typically begins with a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, medications and lifestyle factors.

Depending on your symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend:

• A physical examination
• Hormone evaluation
• Review of current medications
• Laboratory testing when appropriate
• Referral to a specialist if needed

The goal is to identify any underlying medical or emotional factors that may be contributing.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and is individualized for each patient.

Depending on your provider's evaluation, recommendations may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Stress management
• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Counseling or sex therapy
• Lubricants or vaginal moisturizers for dryness
• Hormone evaluation and treatment when appropriate
• Prescription therapies for eligible patients

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.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Consider speaking with a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist for several months.
• Sexual concerns cause personal distress.
• Intimacy is affecting your relationship.
• Pain occurs during sexual activity.
• Changes began after starting a new medication.
• Menopause symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

Early evaluation may help identify treatable contributing factors.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sexual Wellness

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.

Schedule a Consultation to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is female sexual dysfunction?

Female sexual dysfunction refers to conditions involving changes in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm or pain during sexual activity that cause personal distress.

What causes female sexual dysfunction?

Hormonal changes, chronic medical conditions, medications, emotional health, relationship concerns and lifestyle factors may all contribute.

Can female sexual dysfunction be treated?

Many women benefit from individualized treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, counseling, pelvic floor therapy, hormone evaluation or prescription therapies when appropriate.

When should I see a healthcare provider?

If symptoms persist, cause distress or interfere with your quality of life or relationships, it's important to seek a professional evaluation.

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. TeleWellnessMD® is a technology platform that connects patients with licensed healthcare providers. TeleWellnessMD® does not practice medicine, provide medical advice, or dispense medications. All therapies require evaluation and approval by a licensed healthcare provider. Results may vary. Prescription required.

Sources

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Sexual Health.
• International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH). Clinical Practice Guidelines.
• North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Menopause and Sexual Health.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH). Female Sexual Dysfunction.
• Urology Care Foundation. Female Sexual Dysfunction.