Typically, sexual dysfunction—defined as a problem occurring during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents an individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity—is recognized and advertised as a men’s issue. While men can experience erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems, women experience sexual dysfunctions by way of vaginal dryness, pain during sex, and difficulty achieving orgasm. Both men and women can experience low libido. Perhaps surprisingly, more women experience sexual dysfunction than men. In fact between 25 and 63 percent of women experience it, with a higher prevalence in postmenopausal women (where the likelihood jumps to between 68 and 86 percent of women).
Unfortunately, it’s not often talked about. Sexual dysfunctions, including low libido, difficulty with vaginal lubrication, and lack of orgasm, affect thousands of women and their sexual partners. While some aspects of sexual dysfunction can naturally progress with age, there are ways to handle and reduce symptoms, including inhibited desire, painful intercourse, and the inability to become aroused. Read on for more facts about sexual dysfunction in women and what you can do about it.
