HomeHealth TopicsWomenSexual Problems in Women
Back to Women
Sexual Problems in Women
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Sexual Problems in Women

Various physical and psychological factors can impact a woman's sexual function, but professional guidance is available for those experiencing persistent distress.

Overview

There are many problems that can keep a woman from enjoying sex. They include:

  • Lack of sexual desire
  • Inability to become aroused
  • Lack of orgasm, or sexual climax
  • Painful intercourse

Causes

These problems may have physical or psychological causes:

  • Physical causes: May include conditions like diabetes, heart disease, nerve disorders, or hormone problems. Some drugs can also affect desire and function.
  • Psychological causes: May include work-related stress and anxiety. They may also include depression or concerns about marriage or relationship problems. For some women, the problem results from past sexual trauma.

When to See a Provider

Occasional problems with sexual function are common. If problems last more than a few months or cause distress for you or your partner, you should see your health care provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hormone therapy is typically considered for women in perimenopause or menopause who experience vaginal dryness, thinning of vaginal tissue, or decreased desire linked to low estrogen levels. Local treatments like vaginal estrogen creams or rings are often preferred because they have minimal systemic absorption and lower risks compared to oral hormones. Your provider will evaluate your personal and family history of breast cancer or blood clots to determine if this option is safe for you.
If you experience sharp, burning, or stabbing pain during intercourse, or if you notice bleeding, unusual discharge, or sores on the vulva or vagina, you should see a provider promptly. These symptoms can indicate underlying conditions such as infections, endometriosis, or vulvodynia, which require specific treatment to prevent chronic issues.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is highly effective for women experiencing pain during sex due to muscle tension or weakness. A specialized therapist helps identify tight or uncoordinated muscles in the pelvic region and teaches relaxation techniques, stretching, and strengthening exercises. This non-invasive approach can significantly reduce pain and improve comfort and control over time.
Many medications, including SSRIs for depression and certain antihypertensives, can lower libido or make achieving orgasm difficult by altering hormone levels or nerve signaling. Do not stop taking these medications without consulting your doctor, but discuss the side effects; providers can often adjust dosages, switch to different drug classes, or add non-hormonal treatments to manage sexual side effects while maintaining your primary health condition.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss