Female Sexual Problems

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Condition Basics

What are sexual problems?

A sexual problem is something that keeps sex from being satisfying or positive. Most people have symptoms of a sexual problem at one time or another. For some, the symptoms are ongoing. But your symptoms are only a sexual problem if they bother you or cause problems in your relationship.

There is no "normal" level of sexual response, Opens dialog. It's different for everyone. You may also find that what's normal at one stage of your life changes at another stage. For example, it's common for an exhausted parent of a baby to have little interest in sex. And it's common for people to have lower sex drives as they age.

What causes them?

When there's a problem in either the emotional or physical part of your life, you can have sexual problems. Things like stress, anxiety, and depression can be a cause. So can relationship problems. Other causes include an injury or disease, aging, and taking certain medicines. But sometimes a cause isn't found.

What are the symptoms of female sexual problems?

Symptoms of sexual problems can include not being interested in sex or having trouble getting sexually excited or reaching orgasm, Opens dialog. Sex may also be painful. But symptoms are problems only if they bother you or cause problems in your relationship with a partner.

How are they diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask questions about your past health problems and the medicines you take. You'll be asked about your sexual history and for details about your sexual problem. Your doctor may also do a physical exam and order tests.

How are female sexual problems treated?

Treatment for a sexual problem depends on the cause. It may include treating a health problem. For example, you may take hormones or change medicines that cause sexual problems. You may also get a counseling-based therapy. These include counseling for you and your partner, psychological therapy, and sex therapy.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.