Sexual dysfunctions cover a wide variety of problems, including erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature or delayed ejaculation in men, spasms of the vagina, pain with sexual intercourse, and problems with sexual desire (libido) and response. Men over age 65 are at higher risk for ED, although ED is not a normal part of aging. Decreased sexual desire is the most common complaint among women, affecting up to 43 percent of them. The problem may be psychological, physical, or a combination of both.
Sexual dysfunction in men: The most common problems related to sexual dysfunction in men include ejaculation disorders, erectile dysfunction, and inhibited sexual desire. There are different types of ejaculation disorders, including: Premature ejaculation: This refers to ejaculation that occurs before or soon after penetration, Inhibited or retarded ejaculation: This is when ejaculation does not occur, Retrograde ejaculation: This occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced back into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis. In some cases, premature and inhibited ejaculation are caused by psychological factors, including a strict religious background that causes the person to view sex as sinful, a lack of attraction for a partner, and past traumatic events (such as being discovered in masturbation or illicit sex or learning one’s partner is having an affair). Premature ejaculation, the most common form of sexual dysfunction in men, is often due to performance anxiety during sex. However, organic causes are sometimes present. Certain drugs, including some anti-depressants, may impair ejaculation, as can nerve damage to the spinal cord or back. Retrograde ejaculation is most common in males with diabetes who suffer from diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). This is due to problems with the nerves in the bladder and the bladder neck that allow the ejaculate to flow backward. In other men, retrograde ejaculation occurs after operations on the bladder neck or prostate or after certain abdominal operations.
In addition, certain medications, particularly those used to treat mood disorders, may cause
- problems with ejaculation.
- Sexual dysfunction in women: There are many problems that can keep a woman from enjoying sex. They include
- Lack of sexual desire
- Inability to become aroused
- Lack of orgasm, or sexual climax
- Painful intercourse
These problems may have physical or psychological causes. Physical causes may include conditions like diabetes, heart disease, nerve disorders, or hormone problems. Some drugs can also affect desire and function. Psychological causes may include work-related stress and anxiety. They may also include depression or concerns about marriage or relationship problems. For some women, the problem results from past sexual trauma. Occasional problems with sexual function are common.
Infertility: Infertility is the inability of a couple to become pregnant (regardless of cause) after 1 year of unprotected sexual intercourse (using no birth control methods). There are many potential causes of infertility, and fertility problems can affect either men or women. However, it is not always possible to identify the cause. Common causes of infertility in women include lack of regular ovulation (the monthly release of an egg), blockage of the fallopian tubes, and endometriosis, although in 25–30% of cases the cause is unexplained. In men, the most common cause is poor quality of semen (the fluid containing sperm that is ejaculated during sex). For some people, leading a healthy lifestyle and staying up to date with regular health checks and tests may help prevent infertility.