Female sexual dysfunction FAQs

1. What is female sexual dysfunction?
2. How would female sexual dysfunction be diagnosed?
3. What symptoms does FSD present?
4. What is the cause of the condition?
5. Do hormones play a role in female sexual dysfunction?
6. Who is at risk of developing the condition?
7. Does a having a hysterectomy affect female sexual dysfunction?
8. How is it treated?
9. Are there prescription medications available?
10. Is counselling or alternate treatments effective?

What is female sexual dysfunction?

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is characterised by sexual issues that occur in women, predominantly relating to decreases in arousal and libido, pain experienced during intercourse or during climax and inability to achieve orgasm.

How would female sexual dysfunction be diagnosed?

Diagnosis of FSD is difficult because often the causes vary so much and depend on the individual. Usually a physical examination is done, including a pelvic examination and possibly a Pap smear to rule out any possible underlying health conditions as the cause. Psychiatric consultation might also be recommended if the cause is believed to be mental or emotional distress.

What symptoms does FSD present?

The symptoms of female sexual dysfunction can range between lack of sexual desire, vaginal dryness and general decrease in libido and enjoyment of sex.

What is the cause of the condition?

The condition is invariably unique from person-to-person and can include either physical or emotional reasons. Among physical causes, high blood pressure, diabetes, contraceptives, cancer, vaginal infection or menopause are the most common. Emotional or psychological causes may include depression, abuse or stress.

Do hormones play a role in female sexual dysfunction?

Hormonal changes are seen as a large contributing factor to the prevalence of FSD as these play such a pivotal role in terms of emotional balance and sexual desire. If there is an imbalance hormonally, this might influence the development of FSD and decrease of arousal and sexual enjoyment.

Who is at risk of developing the condition?

There is no specific group that is more at risk, but generally women who are experiencing significant hormonal changes are more likely to experienced difficulties relating to the condition. Women going through their menopause fall into this group.

Does a having a hysterectomy affect female sexual dysfunction?

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure whereby the womb and ovaries are removed due to health related dangers. This is often a precursor for hormonal changes and possibly sexual dysfunction as these organs play a large role in the production of sexual hormones.

How is it treated?

Depending on the diagnosed cause of your FSD, treatments will differ. In terms of prescription medication, such as Intrinsa, this is usually only given when the cause is related to a hysterectomy. However, more common forms of treatment might include changing oral contraceptives or examining possible underlying conditions and treating those. Your doctor should be able to advise you on which would be the best route for treatment.

Are there prescription medications available?

At present there is only one available prescription medication for female sexual dysfunction, Intrinsa patches, but these are usually only prescribed following a women having a hysterectomy. In certain cases, where hormonal changes have occurred drastically, it may be a feasible option. The patches contain testosterone which can help with hormonal imbalances and restoring sexual desire.

Is counselling or alternate treatments effective?

If the cause of the decreased libido or sex drive is psychological or based on an emotional distress, counselling may present an alternate and effective option. A professional counsellor will be able to pinpoint the reason for the condition, and provide assistance in dealing with the specific issue.