Sexual Functioning

One of the components of the sexual health model is freedom from problems with sexual functioning. The treatment of dysfunction issues falls generally into two categories, physical issues and mental health issues. The first place of intervention for sexual dysfunction is to obtain a complete medical check-up. If there is a medical condition, no amount of therapy will help address the issue. If the medical issues are identified and resolved and do not appear to be cause of the functioning issues, it is important to seek help to address the additional issues. The causes of sexual dysfunction are varied require an equally number of treatment plans that are beyond the focus here. The goal is to help you possibly identify the issue and respond with plans.

The majority of physical functioning issues include:

Female Dysfunction issues.

Dyspareunia and Vaginismus are issues addressing female genitalia. The causes are varied. A medical review is required to address the cause and treatment. Once medically treated medically, you and your doctor can identify strategies to adjust for the medical issue. While the majority of causes are medical, there may be some psychological issues (such as unresolved abuse issues) that can contribute to the condition.

Male Dysfunction issues.

Male dysfunction issues are typically categorized as impotence problems and (premature and retarded) ejaculation problems. The key is to first get a medical check-up to eliminate physical causes.

Both Male and Female Dysfunction issues. :

Orgasm problems: Problems with achieving orgasms occurs for both men and women, yet are often experienced more often by women. Treatment may or may not be physical and require a medical review. Sometimes, the partners of females need education to assist women in achieving an orgasm.

Low Sexual Desire: Sexual desire changes over time; sometimes a decrease in sexual desire is normal, other times it may be a problem due to medical issues (such as hormone changes) or mental health issues.

Sexual Aversion is when there is an avoidance of sexuality or sexual behavior. More often this is a mental health issues.

Finally, it is important to review how your sexual behavior has changed to cope with sexual functioning concerns. Review your sexual behavior timeline/history, are there any correlation with functioning issues? Have there been changes in your sexual behavior because of functioning concerns (increased masturbation/pornography use b/c of problems with erections). Medication changes/chemical use, depression can all adversely impact your sexual functioning. Are any of these relevant? If sexual functioning concerns are present, what are your plans to address the issues?