Understanding the symptoms of sexual problems in women in Lake Forest, IL

For many women in the Lake Forest, IL, area, it can be difficult for them to talk to professionals about sexual problems. However, knowing the symptoms and understanding that you can seek assistance with your concerns is the first step in taking charge of your sexual health.

Understanding sexual dysfunction and what it entails

Sexual dysfunction refers to a condition that can affect any area of the sexual response cycle. This includes the four phases of:

• Excitement
• Plateau
• Orgasm
• Resolution

Research continues to show that upwards of 40 percent of women have some degree of difficulty with one or more of the sexual response cycle phases. However, few speak to their doctors about their problem because it can be embarrassing or uncomfortable to discuss. Fortunately, in many situations, sexual dysfunction can be treatable, which is why this discussion can greatly improve your quality of life in the bedroom!

What are the causes of sexual dysfunction?

The two primary reasons why one might have problems with intercourse are psychological or physical. Psychological reasons may include stress, anxiety, guilt, relationship problems, depression, or past sexual trauma. Physical reasons include any medical conditions that may cause issues, including hormonal imbalances (such as a lack of estrogen), vulvovaginal atrophy (dry vagina), drug abuse, certain medications, heart disease, or neurological disorders. Many of these issues can be addressed with a primary care physician and may result in improved sexual desire and reduced sexual dysfunction.

What are the typical reasons a woman may experience sexual dysfunction?

When it comes to women, Dr. Sanjay Gandhi sees many patients who are dealing with various levels of sexual dysfunctions and different symptoms. These may include:

• Reduced interest or complete lack of sexual desire – this may occur for many reasons. Some factors may include changes to hormonal levels, a lack of estrogen, certain medical treatments (such as chemotherapy for cancer), pregnancy, stress, depression, and anxiety. Lifestyle changes such as children or stressful careers can contribute to this loss of interest, as well as boredom with routine sexual intercourse.
• Inability to become aroused during sexual activity – for some reason, it can be difficult for them to become aroused due to anxiety, poor lubrication of the vaginal area, or inadequate stimulation. It may also be related to poor blood flow to the vagina and clitoris which can make it impossible to become properly aroused to reach orgasm.

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• Anorgasmia (lack of orgasm) – one of the most rewarding aspects of sexual intercourse is the ability to reach sexual climax, known as an orgasm. Sometimes it can be difficult for a woman to achieve orgasm because they are maybe anxious about their sexual encounter, may not be properly aroused, or may have inexperience and lack of knowledge as to how to achieve sexual climax. Some chronic diseases and medications may also make it difficult to reach sexual climax and can result in anorgasmia.
• Painful/uncomfortable intercourse – there are several issues that can cause sexual intercourse to be painful for a woman. Most of them may be medical issues such as a lack of estrogen, vulvovaginal atrophy (dry vagina), ovarian cysts, endometriosis, poor lubrication, vaginitis, or even a sexually transmitted disease. Penetration can become painful and in turn result in women losing interest in sex entirely.

How can a urogynecologist help with sexual dysfunction?

It is important that women speak up about any sexual problems they may be experiencing, as a diagnosis and discussion of treatment options can help. In some instances, the inability to reach an orgasm or to even become properly aroused for comfortable intercourse may come down to not enough foreplay, or inexperience in the bedroom. Talking with a doctor – as well as your sexual partner – can often help with sexual dysfunction issues and help women dramatically with their sexual health and satisfaction.

Ready to discuss your concerns with our team of professionals?

Dr. Sanjay Gandhi and the staff at Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology are here to provide patients with solutions when it comes to sexual dysfunction and other common concerns. We have three convenient locations in Park City, Woodstock, and Lake Forest, IL and encourage women to book a consultation appointment and evaluation with our team to discuss their urogynecology needs. We can be reached at (844) 327-1188 and are accepting new patients.