Female sexual interest or arousal disorder is a type of sexual dysfunction characterized by little or no interest in sexual activity.
You may enjoy physical bonding with your partner and have a loving relationship, but for some reason, your sexual passion may diminish. You may not be as interested as your partner in engaging in sexual activity. This is an important sign of sexual arousal disorder in women. When a woman shows little or no desire for sex, it is also called female sexual arousal disorder or sexual interest disorder. Learn about the symptoms and causes of female sexual interest or arousal disorder (FSIAD).
What is female sexual interest or arousal disorder?
Women who experience arousal disorders often have no or little desire for sex and do not respond physically or subjectively to sexual stimulation. “The decline in desire and ability to become sexually aroused is generally more significant than expected based on the woman's age and length of relationship. Lack of sexual interest and inability to become sexually aroused are considered disorders only if they cause distress to the woman and are present throughout sexual encounters,” says sexologist and psychiatrist Dr. Sanjay Kumawat.
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What are the symptoms of sexual interest or arousal disorder in women?
According to a 2022 study published in the Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS, common symptoms of sexual interest, arousal disorders, or sexual dysfunction in women include:
- Low sexual desire: The most prevalent female sexual dysfunction is lack of sexual desire and desire.
- Lack of sexual arousal: The desire for sex may still be present, but it may be difficult to arouse oneself or remain aroused during a sexual encounter.
- Problems achieving orgasm: Persistent or recurrent difficulty achieving orgasm despite adequate sexual desire and ongoing stimulation.
- Pain when touched: Pain after sexual stimulation or vaginal contact.
What Causes Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder in Women?
The causes of sexual arousal disorder include a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, including:
1. Hormonal causes
Hormones are essential components of arousal. Hormonal changes can affect your ability to get aroused. However, no studies claim whether there is a direct link between hormone levels and sexual function. The following can cause hormonal changes and sexual arousal disorder in women:
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- birth control pills
- menopause
- pregnancy
2. Psychological causes
This disorder may be caused by emotional and mental health problems, such as:
- stressful relationships
- communication problems
- lack of emotional attachment
- discord in relationship
- depression
- stress
- unrest
- crime
- credit
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3. Physiological reasons
Arousal is greatly influenced by the body's circulatory and nervous systems. A problem with one of these can cause this disorder. Possible physiological reasons include:
- decreased blood supply to the vagina
- nerve damage in the pelvis
- vaginal or bladder infection
- vaginal tissue dryness
How to treat sexual arousal disorder in women?
Some ways to treat sexual arousal disorder in women include:
1. Education
Educate yourself about your body and its functions. It can also highlight non-sexual stimulation, such as how important it is to build trust with your partner.
2. Hormone therapy
In many cases, when treating sexual arousal disorder in women, it is beneficial to treat the underlying disease or hormonal imbalance. “In certain people, low levels of estrogen or testosterone may lead to decreased arousal and reduced sex drive,” says the expert.
It is important to consult your doctor before starting treatment. Also, talk to your partner regularly. Your ability to handle sexual encounters will be greatly aided by a loving and understanding relationship.