Female Sexual Dysfunction

Description

The following is a discussion of the physical aspects of female sexual dysfunction, and some of the possible remedies and aids.

Orgasmic dysfunction



The most troublesome sexual problem for women is the inability to orgasm. Orgasmic dysfunction can be largely divided into two categories: Primary dysfunction, which is the inability to orgasm through any means, usually due to inherent causes; secondary dysfunction, which is the inability to orgasm due to factors arising after having previous orgasms via masturbation or intercourse. Ordinarily, the inability to orgasm in women is referred to as frigidity. However, some specialists consider this to be too strong a word and tend to be cautious with its usage, especially since some of the women who cannot orgasm, still have the inherent ability to orgasm, but just have a higher threshold. Orgasmic dysfunction is not only a result of insufficient clitoral stimulation. Sexual satisfaction, in general, depends not only on the physical stimulation but also on the person's attitude toward sex. The best treatment for orgasmic dysfunction is self-exploration through masturbation. In the event of masturbating for the first time, careful observation of the body's response should be noted. Then, with a partner, the ability to focus on one's sensual pleasures is practiced without being afraid or concerned of the result. After many practice sessions, the male partner then sits behind the woman and proceeds to stimulate the woman's genitals. Some specialists recommend that the woman first stand in front of the male partner and stimulate her own genitals. Then finally, direct intercourse is commenced with the women in the superior position. This sexual position has the advantage in that it allows the woman more control of her sexual response by allowing her to move in the direction of her sensitive areas. Also, in this position, the chances of attaining an orgasm is enhanced because it is possible for the woman to stimulate her clitoris with her hand, or rub it against the man's pubic bone during intercourse. However, it should be kept in mind that a woman's sexual satisfaction is not dependent totally on orgasm alone, but can be enhanced by psychological factors and emotional exchange during intercourse. In other words, the frequency of sexual encounters or the number of orgasms is less important than the closeness of the personal relationship. In conclusion, the most effective treatment for sexual problems is establishing a close emotional relationship with one's partner.


Vaginismus



Vaginismus is the spasmodic contractions of the vagina near its entrance or in the levator ani muscle due to localized oversensitivity in the region. The vaginal muscle contracts involuntarily and, thus, intercourse can be painful. Also, spasms can occur when trying to insert a finger or tampon into the vagina. For these women, pelvic examinations can be difficult and all attempts for a normal sexual life are likely to fail. About 2% of all women experience vaginismus, and most causes are psychological. Treatment involves reducing the anxiety about intercourse by developing sensual concentration, and gradual enlargement of the vagina with the insertion of fingers or enlargement devices. If the devices are applied in a relaxing and pressure-free setting, gradual enlargement can be achieved as the women becomes accustomed to objects being inserted into the vagina. As the couple's relationship becomes more intimate, the sexual satisfaction improves. In conclusion, as we stated earlier, the most effective way to treat sexual problems is to establish a close relationship with one's partner and build on the emotional satisfaction gained through such a relationship. During sexual arousal, the vaginal wall becomes wet with secretions that serve as lubrication. This type of secretion becomes more and more pronounced with increasing visual, aural, and tactile stimulations, and in the case of a fast response, no more than 30 seconds is needed for arousal. The added moisture and lubrication is in preparation for receiving the penis during intercourse. Vaginal dryness is a condition in which there is not enough or no secretion of lubrication. This can cause painful intercourse, and subsequent avoidance of intercourse altogether. If however, sexual activity is continued, in spite of the dryness, the vaginal wall and the urethra may become irritated and the urinary bladder could become inflamed. Again, the end result is that intercourse will be avoided, and in serious cases, sexual difficulty that parallels impotence in men will be experienced.


Vaginal tightening surgery



The vaginal opening can be tightened with surgery by removing a part of the mucous membrane and then suturing the remaining membrane together. At this point, it is important that the rear muscles (levator ani muscle) and the mucous membrane be sutured together in order to prevent any further relaxation of the vagina. During the procedure however, care should be taken not to damage the rectum or the anal sphincter.

Exercise



This is a method of exercising the muscles near the anus. It is used to strengthen the muscles of the pubic and tailbones in order to overcome problems with urination or orgasms. While keeping a normal breathing rate, the anus is contracted and held for 1 to 10 seconds and then relaxed, and then contracted again, repeating the process over and over again. At moments of leisure, this exercise should be repeated about 200 times daily. If the muscles can not be properly contracted, electrical stimulation or biofeedback techniques may help resolve the problem. The muscles of the pubic bone and tailbone surround the urethra and the vagina and play a big part in vaginal orgasms. Women with weak pubic and tailbone muscles have difficulty experiencing vaginal orgasms, but women with strong ones experience vaginal orgasms easily. This method of exercising the muscles near the anus is also helpful in preventing incontinence of urine, which usually happens after childbirth.

Exercise procedure
1.Familiarize yourself with the pubococcygeal muscle by first urinating with legs apart for a moment, and then trying to hold the urine back. When holding, make sure that you inhale while the pubococcygeal muscle is being contracted.
2.Then urinate again while exhaling.
3.Repeat steps 1 and 2 until all urine has passed.
4.Once you have mastered steps 1 to 3, practice with a finger in the vagina, contracting it 10 times for a duration of 3 seconds. Do this 3 times daily.

The above method will take some time to get used to. Only after constant repetition and practice will there be a difference.