Female Sexual Problems: Causes, Health Effects, and How to Overcome Them

A good woman mustn’t talk about sex. We all have heard this statement, and as outdated as it is, when it comes to sex, women’s problems are still brushed under the carpet and neglected.

Sex problems that women face are just as real and worthy of attention. From physical discomfort to a low libido, these issues can impact bedroom performance and self-esteem.

It’s high time we started talking about female sex problems without shame or the fear of judgment, instead of avoiding them. This article will break the silence around this topic and discuss the common sex problems women deal with, why they happen, and the solutions available for them.

Women face many complex sex issues, and sometimes it can happen all at once, making it extremely difficult for them to enjoy the experience, even damaging their relationships. Still, the silver lining in all of this is that these issues can be addressed and resolved.

1. Low Libido (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder - HSDD):

In HSDD, women usually have little to no interest in sex, and this is more common in women who are either in the menopause stage or even after having a baby. This can happen due to stress, hormonal shifts, mental exhaustion, and can even be influenced by certain medications.

2. Painful Sex (Dyspareunia):

Many women avoid having sex due to dyspareunia. This causes discomfort, burning, and sharp pain during sex. The reasons can range from vaginal dryness, endometriosis or even emotional stress.

3. Orgasmic Disorder:

Struggling to orgasm or not experiencing it at all is another issue that women face, which doesn’t get talked about. This can stem from both physiological and psychological problems, ranging from hormonal changes to anxiety or trauma.

4. Vaginismus:

The involuntary tightening of vaginal muscles makes penetration almost impossible or very painful. Vaginismus is often linked to past trauma, anxiety, or fear.

5. Arousal Disorder:

Hormonal changes, medications, or a strained relationship with your partner can make it difficult for some women to feel aroused or stay turned on.

6. Other "Lady Sex Problems":

Poor body image, psychological trauma, postpartum changes, or just sheer exhaustion can all chip away at your sex life and make it difficult for women to enjoy the process.

Physical Health Conditions

1. Hormonal Changes:

These changes, caused by menopause, pregnancy, or even something as simple as starting birth control, can throw your sex drive out for a toss and affect your libido.

2. Diabetes:

Sex problems associated with diabetes are caused by damage to the nerves and loss of lubrication, which can change the way you experience pleasure and satisfaction.

3. Heart Problems:

Yes, heart problems can impact your sex life, and it’s not just about heartbreak. Poor circulation caused by a heart condition can impact arousal, sensitivity, and stamina.

4. Chronic Disease and Medications:

A problem with thyroid or with antidepressants can reduce your libido and delay orgasms.

5. Gynaecological Conditions:

Pain or discomfort during sex can be due to infections, fibroids, or endometriosis. It is always better and safer to get checked before you engage in sexual activities.

6. Postpartum Effects:

Vaginal births can change the sensation down there and can affect your confidence, resulting in a low sex drive.

Lifestyle Factors

1. Stress:

Does sex cut down stress? Yes, it does, but if you’re constantly stressed, then your desire will take a nosedive.

2. Lack of Sleep and Exhaustion:

Tiredness not only drains energy but also suppresses libido, making it extremely important to get enough sleep and be well-rested.

3. Diet and Exercise:

An unhealthy lifestyle can wreak havoc on your hormones as well as blood circulation, making it difficult for women to get aroused.

4. Smoking and Alcohol:

Drinking and smoking in excess can affect your overall health and impair sexual function.

Psychological and Emotional Factors

1. Some women may have a mental block that even the foreplay can’t get rid of; this may be due to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or old trauma.

2. Responsibility of having a new baby, stress at work, and old age usually put intimacy off track.

Relationship Dynamics

Sex problems in a relationship or marriage could be a result of a failure in communication or unresolved conflicts, or can simply be due to drifting apart. Emotional intimacy is every bit as important as physical closeness.

Relationships and Marriage

Experiencing sex problems in a marriage or a long-term relationship can lead to feelings of rejection, guilt, and frustration.

If one partner feels pressured to perform and the other feels undesired, it gives space for resentment to fester. Honest and empathetic communication with your partner is the key to avoiding problems in the relationship.

Your Well-being

The main question that most people have is, what are the side effects of not having sex, and the answer to that is not just black and white. There are no such exact side effects, but a lack of sex can cause irritability, mood swings, and even a dip in your confidence.

On the flip side, sex is known to boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep. If you’re worried that sex is bad or harmful, no, it’s not. Safe and consensual sex is quite beneficial for both your physical and mental health.

Most sex problems that women face can be solved. The first step is to acknowledge and know where to turn if you find yourself in a tough spot.

Medical approach to sex problems

1. Consult a gynaecologist or general practitioner. Don't suffer in silence, as there might be a deeper reason behind what you’re going through.

2. Hormone therapy may be beneficial after giving birth or during menopause if you want to improve your sex life.

3. There are readily accessible medications available in the market for problems with arousal, desire, and even pain.

4. Take appropriate care while having sex, especially if you have a history of infections or diabetes.

Self-Care and Lifestyle

1. Try journaling, yoga, or walking as stress relievers.

2. Make sleep a priority, eat healthily, and drink plenty of water.

3. Pelvic floor therapy can improve your overall well-being and reduce pain.

4. It's okay to use vaginal moisturisers or lubricants if it’s not working out for you naturally.

Psychological and Emotional Support

1. Relationship and emotional support therapy can be life-changing, particularly if you have anxiety or have experienced trauma.

2. Couples counselling can help with sex issues in relationships by enhancing emotional intimacy, communication, and trust.

3. Talk and communicate about your needs with your partner to ensure you both get what you want and are satisfied.

Understanding how often sex is good

There is no single answer to this, as someone's libido may differ from others. It also depends on the mood and preference of people. What matters most is mutual satisfaction and consent.

The sex problems that women face are entirely valid and incredibly common. They shouldn’t have to keep it under wraps or stop themselves from talking about it. Why should men have all the fun?

Your sexual health matters, and you’re not selfish for prioritising it. In fact, having a healthy sex life is part of self-care. With the right support and information, you can have a happy, healthy, and pleasurable sex life.