Diagnosis

To diagnose female sexual dysfunction, your doctor may:

• Discuss your sexual and medical history: Openly sharing your sexual history and current issues is crucial for an effective evaluation.
• Perform a pelvic exam: Your doctor will check for physical changes that may affect sexual enjoyment, such as thinning of genital tissues, decreased skin elasticity, scarring, or pain.
• Order blood tests: Blood tests may be recommended to identify underlying health conditions that could contribute to sexual dysfunction.

Your doctor may also refer you to a counselor or therapist specializing in sexual and relationship problems.

Treatment Options

It’s important to remember that sexual dysfunction only requires treatment if it bothers you. Treatment for female sexual dysfunction can vary depending on symptoms and causes. Communicating your concerns and understanding your body’s normal sexual response are essential in choosing the right treatment and assessing its effectiveness.

Nonmedical Treatment for Female Sexual Dysfunction

Nonmedical strategies your doctor might recommend:

• Talk and listen: Open communication with your partner is crucial for sexual satisfaction.
• Practice healthy lifestyle habits: Limit alcohol, be physically active, and find ways to decrease stress to enhance romantic feelings.
• Seek counseling: Talk with a therapist specializing in sexual and relationship issues.
• Use a lubricant: A vaginal lubricant may be helpful for vaginal dryness or pain during sex.
• Try a device: A vibrator can provide clitoral stimulation to enhance arousal.

Medical Treatment for Female Sexual Dysfunction

Medical treatments may address underlying medical conditions or hormonal changes:

• Estrogen therapy: Localized estrogen therapy improves sexual function by enhancing vaginal tone, elasticity, blood flow, and lubrication.
• Ospemifene (Osphena): Helps reduce pain during sex for women with vulvovaginal atrophy.
• Androgen therapy: Controversial, androgen therapy can benefit women with low testosterone levels and sexual dysfunction.
• Flibanserin (Addyi): Approved for low sexual desire in premenopausal women, it may boost sex drive when distressing. Requires monitoring for side effects.
• Bremelanotide (Vyleesi): Another FDA-approved treatment for low sexual desire in premenopausal women, it’s an injectable medication.

Potential Treatments Requiring More Research

Agents needing more research for female sexual dysfunction treatment:

• Tibolone: Not approved by the FDA for use in the U.S. due to safety concerns.
• Phosphodiesterase inhibitors: Inconsistent results in treating female sexual dysfunction.

Alternative Medicine

Alternative therapies that may help improve sexual satisfaction:

• Mindfulness: Increased awareness and acceptance of the present moment.
• Acupuncture: May have positive effects on libido and lubrication difficulties.
• Yoga: Certain subsets of yoga aim to channel sexual energy and improve sexual functioning.

Note that herbal supplements and topical oils may be available, but their effectiveness and safety require more research.

Coping and Support

To adapt to changes in sexual desire and satisfaction:

• Understand your body and what promotes a healthy sexual response.
• Gather information about factors that may affect your sex life.
• Communicate openly with your partner and remain flexible in intimacy.
• Accept changes and explore new aspects of your sexuality.

Preparing for Your Appointment

If you have ongoing sexual difficulties, make an appointment with your doctor. Be prepared to provide information about your symptoms, sexual history, and medical history. Ask questions and be open about your concerns to receive the best care.