Female sexual dysfunction refers to sexual problems associated with personal distress. It may present in different forms, including:

• Lack of sexual desire

• Impaired sexual arousal

• Failure to achieve orgasm

• Dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse)

Diagnosis is made when the sexual problem is recurrent or persistent and causes significant personal distress.

Causes

The causes of female sexual dysfunction are multifactorial and may include:

Psychological factors

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Stress

• Fatigue

• Previous physical or sexual abuse

Relationship factors

• Relationship conflicts

Medical and physical Factors

• Endometriosis

• Genitourinary symptoms of menopause

• Other physical conditions causing painful sexual activity

Drug-related causes

• Medications such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Non-pharmacological treatment

Correction of contributing factors

• Treat genital lesions

• Manage systemic illnesses

• Correct hormonal abnormalities

• Review and adjust contributing medications where appropriate

Psychological therapies

• Counselling

• Psychotherapy

• Sex therapy

• Relationship counselling

Pharmacological treatment

antidepressants

• Antidepressants may be used where indicated, especially in patients with associated depression or anxiety disorders.