Female Sexual Arousal Disorder - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder ?

Female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD) occurs when a woman is continually unable to attain or maintain arousal and lubrication during intercourse, is unable to reach orgasm, or has no desire for sexual intercourse. The disorder typically affects up to 25 percent of all American women, or an estimated 47 million women. Three-fourths of women with FSAD are postmenopausal. Women describe it as being "unable to get turned on," or being continually disinterested in sex. It is also called "frigidity." Other terms for the disorder include dyspareunia and vaginismus, both of which involve pain during intercourse.

Causes of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder

Causes of this disorder. They include:

• Physical problems, such as endometriosis , cystitis , or vaginitis.
• Systemic problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or hypothyroidism . Even pregnancy or the postpartum period (time after delivery of a child) may affect desire. Menopause is also known to reduce sexual desire.
• Medications, including oral contraceptives , anti-depressants, antihypertensives, and tranquilizers.
• Surgery, such as mastectomy or hysterectomy which may affect how a woman feels about her sexual self.
• Stress.
• Depression.
• Use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarette smoking.

Symptoms of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder

Absence of swelling of the external genitalia and vaginal are generally noticed. Inability to attain or maintain until completion of sexual activity adequate lubrication in response to sexual excitement.

There are few symptoms noticed during female sexual arousal as given as -

• Distress or interpersonal problems.
• Not enough lubrication to complete sexual activity.

Treatment of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder

The treatments for sexual arousal disorders are still in the experimental stages, although a variety of products are being evaluated for their effectiveness in increasing blood flow to the genitalia and facilitating lubrication. Several vasodilator creams are being tested to measure their ability to improve sexual arousal. These creams work by expanding the arteries to increase blood flow to genital tissue. A number of oral medications are being investigated as well such as DHEA and yohimbine, dopamine agonists, and drugs that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. These drugs work by promoting blood flow, stimulating certain components of the nervous system, or a combination of both. Because most of these studies are fairly recent (or ongoing), there is not yet an FDA-approved medication for female sexual arousal disorder.