Understanding Sexual Disorders

What are Sexual Disorders?
Sexual disorders, also known as sexual dysfunctions, refer to difficulties experienced during any stage of the sexual response cycle that impair the ability to enjoy or participate in sexual activity. These disorders can affect desire, arousal, orgasm, or cause pain during intercourse, and they may lead to significant distress, relationship strain, and reduced quality of life.

Types of Sexual Disorders

Sexual disorders are broadly categorized into four main types:

• Desire Disorders: Characterized by a lack or absence of sexual desire or interest. For example, Male Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder and Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder.

• Arousal Disorders: Difficulty becoming physically aroused or maintaining arousal, such as erectile dysfunction in men or lubrication problems in women.

• Orgasm Disorders: Difficulty achieving orgasm, delayed orgasm, or an inability to reach climax despite adequate stimulation.

• Pain Disorders: Experiencing pain during sexual activity, including conditions like dyspareunia (painful intercourse) and vaginismus (involuntary pelvic muscle spasms).

Causes of Sexual Disorders

Sexual disorders can arise from physical, psychological, or combined causes:

• Physical Causes: Cardiovascular problems, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic illnesses, medication side effects, substance use, and surgery or injury.

• Psychological Causes: Stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, trauma, body image concerns, and past sexual abuse.

• Substance-Induced: Sexual dysfunction may be triggered by alcohol, recreational drugs, or prescribed medications interfering with sexual function.

Symptoms and Impact

Common symptoms include reduced sexual desire, difficulty becoming or staying aroused, inability to achieve orgasm, pain during intercourse, and emotional distress. Sexual disorders can affect intimacy, self-esteem, and partner relationships.

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Dr. Aakansha Kharb Neuropsychiatry Clinic, evaluation includes detailed medical and sexual history, physical examination, and psychological assessment to identify underlying causes.

• Psychotherapy: Counseling and therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and couples therapy address psychological factors and improve sexual communication.

• Medications: For conditions like erectile dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, or coexisting mental health issues.

• Lifestyle Changes: Managing stress, reducing alcohol and smoking, improving diet and exercise, and enhancing relationship quality.

• Medical Treatments: Addressing underlying health issues or adjusting medications that affect sexual function.

When to Seek Help

Persistent sexual difficulties lasting longer than six months and causing distress or relationship problems warrant medical evaluation. Early intervention improves outcomes and restores sexual health and wellbeing.

Take the First Step

If sexual problems affect your life or relationship, professional help is available. Contact Dr. Aakansha Kharb Neuropsychiatry Clinic for compassionate assessment, individualized treatment, and support toward a fulfilling sexual life.