Female sexual dysfunction is more common than you may think. A number of women suffer from a disorder called hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
In HSDD, women experience a decrease in the desire to have sex, along with an increase in anxiety. In a study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology magazine, about 10 percent of women aged 18 to 44 suffer from HSDD. There are a number of causes of HSDD. Below are some of the main culprits:
- Birth Control Pills (BCPs): According to pharmacist, Dr. Tetee Kuyateh, one of the side effects of taking BCPs containing estrogen and progesterone is decreased libido or sexual desire. The hormones in BCPs stimulate the secretion of sexual-hormone binding protein also known as SHBP. SHBP binds to the sexual hormones in circulation, including testosterone. Testosterone plays and integral role in stimulating a women’s sexual desire. If it is bound to SHBP, it cannot exert this biological effect. A study conducted at the Boston University Medical Center showed that sexual dysfunction in women resulted from the chronic increase in SHBP that is attributed to the use of birth control pills.
- Stress: Stress is one of the biggest psychological factors that can lead to HSDD. Being “superwoman” can cause a lot of stress and can surely decrease a woman’s want or desire to have sex.
- Anti-depressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs, are the most commonly prescribed medication for depression. They are also the most likely to cause sexual dysfunction and decreased libido in both men and women. Seretonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are less likely to cause sexual dysfunction.
- Vaginismus: A condition caused by the unconscious tensing of the puboccygeus (PC) muscle.The PC muscle provides support and stability for all of the organs in the pelvis. This muscle is also stimulated and contracts during an orgasm. Tensing of the PC muscle can make sexual intercourse extremely unpleasant and, in some cases, impossible. The causes of vaginismus can be physical or psychological.
It is imperative that we, as women, maintain an open dialogue about sex and our sexual health. Do not be afraid to speak to your doctor about all of your health issues not matter how “taboo” they may seem.
Source: ABC News
Photo Credit: Naturallibidoenhancement.org, Time.com
