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SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
Did you know that in the United States, as many as 40 percent of women struggle with female sexual dysfunction (FSD)? While male sexual dysfunction (MSD) has been widely researched and has many treatment options available, very little research has been performed for FSD. More women tend to suffer from symptoms of sexual dysfunction than men, but because of stigmas surrounding female sexuality, many women find it challenging to discuss their concerns with their health care provider. In fact, board-certified Urogynecologist Dr. Maria Canter of Urogynecology Center NoVa has observed that many of her patients will schedule a consultation under the guise of another concern only to reveal they are having difficulties with their sex life.
Whether due to childbearing, the natural aging process, medication or an underlying health condition, many women will notice a decline in their sexual desire or orgasms as well as discomfort during intercourse with their partners. These symptoms aren’t just physically uncomfortable; they can also take a devastating toll on a woman’s self-esteem, her sense of well-being and her intimate relationships. What’s worse is that many women with FSD feel alone in their suffering and often accept their condition as an unavoidable part of getting older.
At Urogynecology Center NoVa, we pride ourselves on being a practice of women, for women to diagnose and treat sexual dysfunction concerns in a compassionate and supportive environment. We understand firsthand the issues you may be experiencing as age, hormonal changes and other factors take a toll on your intimate life. Whatever the cause, Dr. Canter and her all-female staff will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan designed to help you get back to feeling feminine and get more enjoyment in the bedroom at any age.
WHAT CAUSES FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION?
Sexual dysfunction can occur in adult women of all ages and all walks of life. Older women are typically the most commonly affected due to factors such as perimenopause, menopause and a gradual decline in health associated with getting older. However, there are many factors that can cause FSD at any life stage, including:
- Physical: Several physical conditions can contribute to sexual dysfunction. Heart disease, diabetes, hormone imbalances, neurological conditions, kidney failure or bladder problems can cause issues with sexual function. In addition, certain medications, such as antidepressants, can have side effects that impact sexual function and desire.
- Hormonal: Hormones play an essential role in regulating sexual function in women. As the hormone levels of estrogen decrease due to menopause or the natural aging process, many women will observe changes to their sexual function as they age, including decreased vaginal lubrication and genital sensation. They may also note reduced interest in sex and less frequent orgasms.
- Psychological or Social: Sexual dysfunction isn’t just physical; it can be mental as well. Long-term stress, untreated depression and anxiety, poor self-confidence or a previous sexual trauma can contribute to sexual dysfunction or a lack of sex drive. Social contributors, such as not liking your partner or not feeling comfortable with your partner, can also influence sexual function.
WHAT WE TREAT:
Difficulty Achieving Orgasm or Decreased Orgasms
If you used to be able to achieve orgasm but have found you can no longer, it is essential that you be evaluated immediately as this could indicate an issue affecting your spine or nerves. If, however, your orgasms have decreased with age or are not as strong as they once were, we offer nonsurgical treatment options that work to enhance vaginal sensitivity and sensation to restore your orgasm strength and frequency, including:
- O-Shot
- Viveve Radiofrequency
- Clitoral/Vaginal Stimulation
- Topical and Oral Medications
Decreased Arousal
Decreased arousal in women can be a complex concern to address because there are many different physical, hormonal and psychological variables that can affect a woman’s ability to become aroused. Some women experience decreased arousal simply because they do not like or trust their partner, which would require professional help from a couple’s counselor or sex therapist to resolve. Other potential variables can include factors such as stress, time constraints, menopause or other underlying health conditions. Fortunately, we offer highly-effective nonsurgical treatments designed to enhance arousal and sensations, including:
Decreased Lubrication
Many women, regardless of age, experience vaginal dryness or decreased lubrication at some point in their life — even women in their twenties can experience vaginal dryness. The vagina is both self-lubricating and self-cleaning. Glands in the vagina produce specific fluids that work to keep the vaginal canal at a healthy pH level, reduce friction during intercourse and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Hormone levels, aging and certain medications can affect the functionality of these glands and lead to uncomfortable dryness or soreness.
If you struggle with decreased vaginal lubrication, several treatments can help, including:
- Vaginal hormone creams, suppositories or rings
- Lubricants that are free from parabens or sugars
- Vaginal moisturizers
- Viveve radiofrequency
- O-Shot/Platelet Rich Plasma
Vaginal Looseness
Intimate areas such as the vagina, labia and perineum are subject to the same contributing factors of aging as the rest of your body. Delicate folds of tissue around the vaginal opening are prone to wrinkling, sagging and drooping over time — especially after the tears and stretching experienced during childbirth. However, you do not have to have had a vaginal delivery to experience vaginal looseness, also known as vaginal laxity, over time. Some women experience laxity only due to the natural aging process or years of friction from everyday life.
When the skin of the labia becomes loose, a woman may experience daily discomfort due to chafing as well as discomfort or pain during intercourse. Additionally, stretched or excess inner or outer labia skin can become a cosmetic concern that takes a toll on a woman’s confidence during moments of intimacy with her partner. Luckily, our practice offers both surgical and nonsurgical options for vaginal looseness to rejuvenate aging tissues and improve both the appearance and sensations of the vagina, including:
If you are suffering from sexual dysfunction, it’s time to reclaim your confidence and enhance your quality of life. Contact Urogynecology Center NoVa today at 703-293-5239 to schedule your consultation and discover all of the ways we can improve your sexual health.