Sexual dysfunction in men and women
Comedians can always get a laugh with a joke like “Not tonight, I have a headache” or “he was having trouble saluting the flag.” Behind the laughter are many men and women suffering from sexual dysfunction, a problem that affects lives and relationships. About 43% of women and 31% of men experience issues that impact their sexual health. No one should ignore health issues that alter their quality of life due to embarrassment or shame.
Our Austin urologists diagnose and treat patient’s sexual concerns.
There are four types of sexual health issues
Many patients have never heard of the sexual response cycle. The first phase is excitement, which includes desire and arousal. The other three phases are plateau, orgasm and resolution. Understanding this cycle helps people comprehend the four types of sexual dysfunction.
- Desire disorders include having a lack of interest or desire for sex
- Arousal disorders include being unable to become excited or aroused during sex
- Orgasm disorders occur when a person has either an absence of or a delay in orgasm
- Pain disorders include pain that occurs during sexual intercourse
What causes sexual dysfunction?
Sexual problems can be challenging to diagnose, so patients should seek out physicians like our Austin urologists, who have the experience and training to determine what is causing the trouble. Here are the two causes of sexual issues.
- Physical and medical reasons – conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalances and chronic diseases like liver failure; alcohol or substance use disorders or side effects from medications
- Psychological concerns – Anxiety, stress, depression, body image issues, relationship problems, worries about sexual performance or sexual trauma experienced in the past
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common concern for men
Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is the most common difficulty men talk to our physicians about. While many men have an occasional issue getting or maintaining an erection, if the problem happens regularly, patients need to consult a physician who can diagnose and treat the issue. Our Austin urologists offer a variety of treatments for ED, ranging from lifestyle changes and medications to intraurethral therapy and surgery. Other sexual concerns for men include the following.
- Premature ejaculation
- Retarded ejaculation
- Low testosterone
Hormonal changes often cause issues for women
Women’s sexual health issues vary, but one common concern happens when hormone levels change during perimenopause and menopause. As estrogen levels lower, the vaginal lining becomes less elastic and thinner, leading to sexual pain disorders. Hormonal shifts after childbirth and during breastfeeding also cause vaginal dryness. Our physicians can help women cope with pain during intercourse or other sexual issues. Treatments range from hormone supplements or medications to physical therapy, electrical pelvic floor stimulation or surgery.
Our Austin urologists diagnose and treat sexual problems with compassion and care
Men and women dealing with sexual dysfunction should talk to the experienced physicians at our Austin urology practice. Contact us for an appointment.