Female Sexual Dysfunction Causes and Treatments

a doctor speaking with a female patient

Some common medical conditions can make it difficult to enjoy sex. There are many possible symptoms and causes that can interfere with having a satisfying sex life, and Dr. Gibson is well-versed in gynecology for sexual dysfunction and can help you understand and cope with all types of conditions that may be affecting your sexual enjoyment.

Atrophic Vaginitis

Inflammation of the vagina caused by the thinning of the vaginal lining and decreased lubrication is known as atrophic vaginitis. Vaginal atrophy is caused by a decrease of estrogen in the body and usually occurs after menopause or cancer treatment. It can lead to vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse, urinary issues and other problems. Vaginal moisturizers or lubricants and topical and/or oral estrogen therapy are often used to treat atrophic vaginitis. If you have a history of breast cancer, Dr. Gibson may recommend nonhormonal treatments.

Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness affects more than 25 million women at one time or another. Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and water-based lubricants can help ease this condition.

Painful Intercourse

Causes of painful intercourse range from conditions such as insufficient lubrication to more complex problems like endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).  Through examination and diagnostic testing, Dr. Gibson can help to determine if there’s an underlying physical cause and help you find treatment that works for you.

Sexual Dysfunction

Many women experience problems with sexual dysfunction, and it can occur at any stage of life. Problems with sexual response, desire, orgasm or pain can take a toll on your overall sense of well-being and your relationship.  Sexual response involves complex physical, emotional and experiential elements, and treatment of sexual dysfunction often involves multiple approaches.

Inhibited Sexual Desire

According to the National Institutes of Health, inhibited sexual desire, or female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), may occur in up to one-third of adult women in the US. HSDD is a lack of interest in or aversion to sex that may have either physical or emotional causes. There are a multitude of factors that can have an impact on female sexual desire. Dr. Gibson understands that talking about these types of physical and emotional issues can be difficult. She listens to your concerns and helps you find solutions that meet your needs. She may recommend lifestyle changes, treatment of coexisting medical or psychological disorders, switching medications that affect your sexual desire, hormone therapy and couples therapy.

Contact Us

Dr. Jill Gibson provides compassionate, quality gynecology for sexual dysfunction. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 985-898-5990 today.