“The question of being troubled is key when it comes to
any potential sexual disorder, since the issue is not
the sexual “problem or condition itself but whether…”.1
Umbrella
What may the Sexual Health and Female Sexual Dysfunction Umbrella include?
Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:
- Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD)
- Frigidity
- Sexual Dysfunction In Females/Women
- Sexual Problems In Females/Women
Definition
What is female sexual dysfunction (FSD)?
DotS the definition of FSD may vary. In Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Overview the (United States) Mayo Clinic’s definition is:
“Persistent, recurrent problems with sexual response, desire, orgasm or pain — that distress you or strain your relationship with your partner — are known medically as sexual dysfunction”.2
FSD or Not
If a woman is not troubled by her sex life, does she have FSD?
In Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Sexual Problems At Midlife – Does the Problem Bother You or Your Partner? the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) explain:
“The question of being troubled is key when it comes to any potential sexual disorder, since the issue is not the sexual “problem” or condition itself but whether it is bothersome or troubling to the person or partners involved. For instance, if both partners in a couple are content to live without an active sex life, then a condition such as vaginal dryness or erectile difficulty does not really represent sexual dysfunction. Similarly, a woman who notices some decline in sexual desire over time may not be troubled by it if she is not in a relationship. However, if she meets a partner with high libido, she may start to see her low sex drive as a problem”.3
Types
What are some types of FSD?
In Sexuality: Sexual Problems the JH elaborate on:
In Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Symptoms the Mayo Clinic explain:
- Low sexual desire. This most common of female sexual dysfunctions involves a lack of sexual interest and willingness to be sexual
- Sexual arousal disorder. Your desire for sex might be intact, but you have difficulty with arousal or are unable to become aroused or maintain arousal during sexual activity
- Orgasmic disorder. You have persistent or recurrent difficulty in achieving orgasm after sufficient sexual arousal and ongoing stimulation
- Sexual pain disorder. You have pain associated with sexual stimulation or vaginal contact”.5
Anorgasmia
What is anorgasmia?
DotS the definition of anorgasmia may vary. The Mayo Clinic’s definition is:
“Anorgasmia is delayed, infrequent or absent orgasms — or significantly less-intense orgasms — after sexual arousal and adequate sexual stimulation. Women who have problems with orgasms and who feel significant distress about those problems may be diagnosed with anorgasmia”.6
Is there an association between anorgasmia and aging?
In Anorgasmia In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Causes: Physical Causes the Mayo Clinic explain:
- “Age-Related Changes To the Body Changes to the body after menopause or later in life may contribute to various types of sexual dysfunction”.7
Is anorgasmia a concern?
In Anorgasmia In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Overview the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:
“Talk to your health care provider if you have concerns about your sex life, especially if you’re concerned about your ability to have an orgasm”.8
FSD Common or Not
In Australia the JH note:
“Just over 60% of Australian women have reported that they have had a sexual problem in the past year. Half of women reported a lack of interest in sex, and about a quarter report pain or lack of pleasure with sex”.9
In Sexual Dysfunction the (United States) Cleveland Clinic note in October 2020:
FSD Cause
What causes FSD?
In Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Overview: Causes the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:
Factors — often interrelated — that contribute to sexual dissatisfaction or dysfunction include:
- Physical…
- Hormonal…
- Psychological and social…”.11
Health Care Provider
What if I think I have FSD?
If you think you have FSD and this troubles you, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.
In Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Talking To Your Healthcare Provider About Your Problem the NAMS reassure:
There is absolutely no need to suffer (or let your relationship suffer) in silence”.12
The Mayo Clinic also encourage us to talk about sex explaining:
“Your health has a big impact on your sex life and vice versa. Don’t be embarrassed about discussing sex with your doctor. Your doctor can be a reliable source of information on sexual health. He or she can help you manage chronic conditions and medications that affect your sex life. Your doctor can help you understand how sexual activity may change throughout your life”.13
Health Topics A-Z
Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Sexual Health and Female Sexual Dysfunction?
In Health Topics A-Z you may find:
Links
Where may I find Links related to Sexual Health and Female Sexual Dysfunction?
Your Country may have Links similar to:
Links
This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.New or Updated
- Adverse Childhood Experiences and Sexual Dysfunction In Midlife Women: Is There A Link?
- Let’s Talk Low Libido
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes
- Study Explores Impact of Childhood Trauma on Sexual Function In Midlife Women
- Video Series-2022: Discussing Sexual Health Concerns With Your Health Care Professional
- Video Series-2023: Changes In Sexual Health After Cancer [08 October 2023]
- Adverse Childhood Experiences and Sexual Dysfunction In Midlife Women: Is There A Link?
- Anorgasmia In Women
- BMS Statement on Testosterone
- BMS TV: Menopause Explained
- BMS TV: Testosterone Explained
- BMS TV: Urogenital Atrophy
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
- Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens
- Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens [Video]
- FAQS [Vaginismus]
- FAQs: When Sex Is Painful
- Female Genital Cutting
- Female Genital Mutilation
- Female Orgasm: No Climax With Vaginal Penetration?
- Female Reproductive System [Topics]
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Diagnosis & Treatment
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes
- Hormonal Health – Clues Made Clear
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Vaginal Oestrogen
- How To Find Relief for Hot Flashes At Night
- How To Get Help With Your Sexual Health
- Information for Partners
- Intercourse Was Becoming Painful – Ask Dr Jean
- International Society for Sexual Medicine
- International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases: Patient Handouts
- International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health
- International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder In Women
- International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health: Find A Provider
- Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Sexual Wellbeing and Intimacy During and After Menopause [+ Video: Menopause Is the End of Your Sex Life]
- Let’s Talk Low Libido
- Let’s Talk About Perimenopause
- Libido: The Highs and Lows of Midlife
- Loss of Libido (Reduced Sex Drive)
- Low Sex Drive In Women
- Lubricant Alternatives: What To Use and What To Avoid
- Menopause
- Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 2. Talking To Your GP About Menopause
- Menopause Preparedness Toolkit Video Series: Common Conditions Associated With Menopause and Midlife
- Menopause Ruining Your Sex Life?
- Menopause Symptoms: Mayo Clinic Expert Outlines Hormone and Nonhormonal Therapies
- Menopause Treatments: What Works, What Doesn’t
- Menopause and Sexuality
- Menopause: Symptoms & Causes
- Menopause: Understanding the Changes and Finding Relief | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 256
- Mymenoplan.org [My Menoplan, United States]
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Herbs At A Glance
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: How Safe Is This Product or Practice?
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center: Directory of Organizations
- Navigating Menopause Together: How Partners Can Help
- Navigating Menopause: Expert Insights and Solutions | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 245
- Orgasmic Dysfunction In Women
- Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
- Painful Sex (Dyspareunia)
- Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health
- Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: Guide To Sexual Health Providers
- Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: New! Sexual Anatomy 101
- Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: New! Vulvovaginal Pain Log
- Prosayla Supported By ISSWSH [International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health]
- Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
- Relationships
- Sex and Menopause: Treatment for Symptoms
- Sex and the Adult Female With Cancer
- Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause
- Sexual Dysfunction Hits Some Women Harder Than Others As They Age
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Sexual Health
- Sexual Health Issues [Topics]
- Sexual Health for Lesbian and Bisexual Women
- Sexual Health: Expert Answers – Is There An Equivalent of Viagra for Women?
- Sexuality
- Sexuality and Intimacy In Older Adults
- Study Explores Impact of Childhood Trauma on Sexual Function In Midlife Women
- Supporting A Loved One Through Menopause
- Symptoms [Vaginismus]
- Talking With Your Doctor: Tips on Discussing Sensitive Topics With Your Doctor
- Testosterone Therapy In Women: Does It Boost Sex Drive?
- The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
- The Vulva: Irritation, Diagnosis & Treatment – Booklet
- Therapy for the Effects of Menopause
- Types of Sexual Dysfunction In Women
- Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not
- Vaginal Dryness
- Vaginal Dryness
- Vaginal Dryness
- Vaginal Dryness After Menopause: How To Treat It? I’m postmenopausal and often have vaginal dryness, which makes intercourse painful. Is there anything I can do about it?
- Vaginal Dryness Alternative Treatments
- Vaginal Dryness: What To Do About It
- Video Series-2022: Discussing Sexual Health Concerns With Your Health Care Professional
- Video Series-2023: Changes In Sexual Health After Cancer
- Video Series-2023: NAMS 2023 Nonhormone Therapies Position Statement for Bothersome Menopause Symptoms
- “We’re Just Tired”: Influences on Sexual Activity Among Male-Partnered Women In Midlife; A Mixed Method Study
- Webinars: Previous – Pay Attention on Your Way In! The Vulva Is An Important Organ Too
- What Can Cause Orgasm Problems In Women?
- What Happens If A Woman Takes Viagra?
- What Is Normal Sex?
- What Is Vulvodynia?
- When Sex Hurts – Podcast [Vaginismus and Vulvodynia]
- Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? Episode 3: Dr Annice Mukherjee: Your Essential Menopause Toolkit
- Women’s Sexual Health: Talking About Your Sexual Needs
Sources
Where may I find the Sources quoted?
You may find the Sources quoted at:
Sources
- Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Sexual Problems At Midlife – Does the Problem Bother You or Your Partner? North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/sexual-problems-at-midlife Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Overview. 17 December 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-sexual-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20372549 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Sexual Problems At Midlife – Does the Problem Bother You or Your Partner? North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/sexual-problems-at-midlife Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Sexuality: Sexual Problems. Last Updated:07 September 2023 | Last Reviewed:02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/contents/documents/Resources/Fact_sheets/Sexual_health.pdf Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Overview. 17 December 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-sexual-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20372549 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Anorgasmia In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Overview. 30 April 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anorgasmia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369422 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Anorgasmia In Women: Symptoms & Causes: Causes – Physical Causes. 30 April 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anorgasmia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369422 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Anorgasmia In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Overview. 30 April 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anorgasmia/symptoms-causes/syc-20369422 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Sexuality: Sexual Problems. Last Updated:07 September 2023 | Last Reviewed:02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/contents/documents/Resources/Fact_sheets/Sexual_health.pdf Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Sexual Dysfunction. Last Reviewed: 27 October 2020. Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9121-sexual-dysfunction Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Female Sexual Dysfunction: Symptoms & Causes – Overview: Causes. 17 December 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-sexual-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20372549 Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Talking To Your Health Care Provider About Your Problem. North America Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/effective-treatments-for-sexual-problems/talking-to-your-healthcare-provider-about-your-problem Accessed: 15 November 2023
- Have Questions About Sex? Ask Your Doctor. 01 October 2020. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/art-20048805 Accessed: 15 November 2023