Sexual difficulties/mismatched libido
Struggles with sex and sexuality can manifest in different ways for every person. Sexual struggles are common for most people, although we often experience shame and embarrassment when attempting to acknowledge these difficulties.
Sexual Dysfunction can occur during any phase of the sexual response cycle (excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution), and it can significantly impact an individual's ability to experience satisfaction from sexual activity.
Physical causes of sexual dysfunction can be related to various medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic illnesses like kidney or liver failure, and substance use disorders. Additionally, certain medications, including some antidepressants, can have side effects that affect sexual function.
Psychological causes of sexual dysfunction can include work-related stress, anxiety, concerns about sexual performance, relationship difficulties or conflicts, depression, feelings of guilt, body image concerns, and the effects of past sexual trauma. These psychological factors can have a significant impact on sexual health and functioning:
Lack of interest in or desire for sex: Decreased or absent sexual desire or interest.
Inability to become aroused: Difficulty in achieving or maintaining sexual arousal or excitement.
Pain with intercourse: Experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual activity, also known as dyspareunia.
Symptoms of sexual dysfunction In people assigned male at birth:
Erectile dysfunction: Inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
Retarded ejaculation: Absent or delayed ejaculation despite sufficient sexual stimulation.
Premature ejaculation: Inability to control the timing of ejaculation, resulting in early or premature ejaculation.
Symptoms of sexual dysfunction In people assigned female at birth:
Inability to achieve orgasm: Difficulty or inability to reach sexual climax or orgasm.
Inadequate vaginal lubrication: Insufficient natural lubrication before and during sexual activity, which can cause discomfort or pain.
Vaginismus: Inability to relax the vaginal muscles, making sexual intercourse painful or impossible.