Female
Sexual Arousal Disorder is described as the inability of a woman
to complete sexual activity with adequate lubrication. Swelling
of the external genitalia and vaginal lubrication are generally
absent. These symptoms must cause problems in the interpersonal
relationship to be considered a disorder. It is not unusual for
the woman with female sexual arousal disorder to have almost no
sense of sexual arousal. Often, these women experience pain with
intercourse and avoid sexual contact with their partner.
Chronically or recurrently, the patient cannot lubricate enough
to complete the sexual activity.
Except for another Sexual Dysfunction.
It is not directly caused by substance use (medication or drug
of abuse) or by a general medical condition.
It causes marked distress or interpersonal problems.
Associated
Features:
Personal
relationship problems.
Differential
Diagnosis:
Some disorders have similar or even the same symptoms. The clinician,
therefore, in his/her diagnostic attempt has to differentiate
against the following disorders which need to be ruled out to
establish a precise diagnosis.
Inadequate
Genital Stimulation.
Drug Abuse.
Cause:
Sexual Desire
Disorders may be associated with specific settings, situations
and relationships or generally present in all sexual settings.
It may be due to psychological factors or a combination of psychological
and physical factors. It is characterized by inability to attain
or maintain adequate physical response to sexual excitement. It
is considered a disorder when it causes distress or interpersonal
conflict, and it must be differentiated from other psychological
problems for which it may be simply a symptom rather than the
primary problem.
Contrary to
popular belief, a lack of lubrication is not always caused from
a failure to be aroused. The exact causes of female sexual arousal
disorder are not known. It has been associated with illness, a
lack of the hormone estrogen, and side effects from medications.
Possible psychological explanations include guilt, hostility,
and anxiety.
Treatment:
Relaxation
techniques and various creams and jellys are suitable lubricants
and may help to alleviate the discomfort.
The psychological
portion of treatment is directed at teaching how to focus on pleasurable
thoughts and feelings about sex.
Medical
& Other
It is recommended
that the sufferer discuss this matter with her gynecologist.
