List of Topics Print This Page

 General Gynecology

Female sexual dysfunction

Female sexual dysfunction

Causes of sexual dysfunction
Causes of sexual dysfunction

Definition:

Sexual dysfunction in women may involve a reduction in sex drive, a strong dislike of sexual activity, difficulty becoming aroused, inability to achieve orgasm, or pain with sexual activity or intercourse.

Alternative Names:
Frigidity; Sexual dysfunction - female
Considerations:

Traditionally, sexual dysfunction in women was thought to be largely due to psychological problems. Recent research is beginning to uncover many physical causes for sexual problems in women. While many sexual problems have an underlying psychological component, possible physical causes must be ruled out in the initial eamination.

Common Causes:
  • Communication problems with partner
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Feelings of guilt and shame about sex
  • Fear of pain, infection, or being pregnant
  • History of sexual abuse
  • Lack of appropriate stimulation
  • Lack of lubrication
  • Changes related to menopause
  • Damage to nerves due to surgery or trauma
  • Medication
  • Infection or gynecological disease
Home Care:

Home care depends on the cause. Family planning and birth control may be helpful for problems caused by a fear of pregnancy.


Review Date: 5/23/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

  View History
 Female sexual dysfunction

   
   

 

About UPHS   Contact Us   Site Map   Privacy Statement   Legal Disclaimer   Terms of Use

The University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA 1-800-789-PENN © 2008, The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania