Many women all over the world suffer from some sort of sexual dysfunction. Patricia Nevils M.D is an OBGYN who offers sexual dysfunction treatment.
It is crucial to note that sexual dysfunction should only be treated if it bothers you. If it does not, you should not seek treatment.
There are many causes and symptoms of sexual dysfunction in women which makes it very difficult to treat. The following are some common treatments used to address sexual dysfunction in women:
Lifestyle Changes
Many women benefit from a combination of approaches as far as sexual dysfunction treatment is concerned. Changing several elements of their lives usually helps with alleviating their sexual dysfunction.
A crucial lifestyle change involves exercise. Being physically active improves stamina and also mood control. Therefore, you are more likely to be sexually active if you are physically fit.
A change in diet usually also works to alleviate sexual dysfunction. Eating a healthy diet is crucial for you to feel energized and healthy. Treatment may also include some specific foods known to raise libido such as watermelon and avocado, also known as aphrodisiacs.
Lubrication
A doctor may also recommend the use of lubrication if vaginal dryness is an issue. Vaginal dryness can be caused by a myriad of factors including birth control pills and poor overall health.
Lubrication is a short-term measure as it only addresses the symptom and not the root of the issue. However, it is very helpful in cases of vaginal dryness and can prevent vaginal bleeding and blisters.
Sex Toys
A sex therapist or a doctor may advocate the use of sex toys to stimulate your sex life. There are very many sex toys out there for you and your partner to try.
Arousal in women can be achieved by using a sex toy to stimulate the clitoris, such as using a vibrator. Other sex toys are used to arouse via penetration.
Estrogen Therapy
Estrogen therapy is typically administered using a ring, tablet, or cream. It improves sexual drive by enhancing vaginal tone and elasticity. It also improves vaginal blood flow and lubrication.
There are risks associated with estrogen therapy but they depend on age and other health issues such as pre-existing conditions like diabetes for example. Therefore, you should consult your doctor comprehensively before you begin estrogen therapy.
Estrogen therapy can be given on its own or alongside a progestin. It will depend on the dose and the type of hormone.
Androgen Therapy
Androgen therapy consists of injecting the body with testosterone. Testosterone is vital for proper sexual activity in both men and women. The difference is that men have much higher levels of testosterone than women.
Androgen therapy results differ greatly from woman to woman. It shows tremendous benefit in some and barely any effect in others.
It will benefit any woman whose testosterone levels are too low, that is certain.
Flibanserin (Addyi)
Flibanserin is an FDA approved pill that has been shown to improve sexual desire in premenopausal women. It was originally developed as an antidepressant.
The drug dose is a single pill taken daily but it can have serious side effects. If you experience an increase in sex drive after eight weeks you should stop taking the pill.
