Spotlight On: Let’s Talk About Sex

Over the last number of months, we’ve certainly learned a thing or two about the wide range of contraceptives that are available on the market today. Now, we are going to continue our focus on health by studying a wide range of different illnesses and ailments. Last week, we focused on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), this week we will be focusing on all things to do with sex. _________________________________________________________ Many women have problems with sex at various stages throughout their lives. Female sexual disfunction can be quite common and affects up to 50% of woman and becomes more likely as you get older. This can include loss of arousal, libido, desire and pain during sex. Lack of sex drive Lack of sex drive or loss of desire can occur at a number of stages during a woman’s life – particularly during pregnancy or times of high stress. For some women, it is a continuous problem and can be attributed to a wide range of physical and psychological reasons. These can include diabetes, depression, relationship problems, tiredness, hormone disorders and many more. A drop in sex drive can also result from a change in a woman’s natural testosterone levels. Pain during sex Pain during sex is particularly common after the menopause due to the drop in oestrogen levels. However, vaginismus is another reason that women can experience pain during sex. Vaginismus is when the muscles around the vagina go into a spasm making sex painful or impossible. Sometimes, pain during sex may also be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection or of gynaecological issues such as endometriosis. Trouble having an orgasm? Some women have trouble reaching orgasm and there can be a number of reasons behind this. Being unable to ‘let go’, not enough stimulation, stress and relationship issues can all play a part. Evaluate your emotions to see can you pinpoint a pattern to the problem. Psychosexual therapy can also be something to consider if the issue persists. Get help If you are experiencing any of the problems normally associated with sexual dysfunction, you should pay a visit to your GP or a therapist. Some tests may be carried out in order to look for for underlying medical conditions. Your GP will be able to advise you on therapists if needed.