With life’s pressing demands, most women at some point of their lives will suffer from sexual dysfunction. Unfortunately, so little media attention is targeted at problems facing women sexual health issues. Media coverage focuses primarily on male erectile dysfunction. Presently, commercial products to help women “get into the mood” are not openly advertised.

 

As female baby boomers reach the age of menopause, more will be struggling with sexual health problems. The two main reasons for these problems are a drop of sex hormone production and lack of blood flow to the clitoral region caused by vascular conditions, e.g. high cholesterol, nerve damage from diabetes, and high blood pressure.

 

Years ago, the American Psychological Association classified female sexual problems as mental disorders and prescribed anti-depressants to address these problems making the condition worse from the drug’s side effects .

 

Today more urologists and gynecologists treat the medical conditions causing diminished blood flow and nerve damage to the pelvic/vaginal regions.

 

Some of the symptoms women may experience are:

 

          - decreased blood flow to the vagina

          - discomfort during intercourse

          - inability to achieve orgasm

          - trauma-related aversion to sex

         

In the accompanying video, you will learn about how your body goes through four sexual response cycles - excitement, sustained excitement, orgasm, and relaxation. If your sexual experience is less than satisfying, you may wish to talk with your doctor about any one of these problems.

 

Vaginal dryness is the most common sexual health problem facing menopausal women. Over the counter lubricants can help relieve this problem. However, more serious issues can be present that require a medical examination. Atrophy of the vaginal wall can affect the amount of lubrication present. Untreated, the vaginal wall can tear and bleed. Women should have annual vaginal exams to monitor vaginal dryness and atropy.

 

Certain drugs affect women’s sexual health. Oral birth control pills, various blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can rob a woman’s ability to experience orgasms. If you notice a decreased interest in sex or are no longer able to achieve satisfying orgasms, check with the pharmacist to see if the medications your taking may be the culprit. Then see your doctor about other medication options.

 

Additionally, lifestyle choices can affect women’s sexual health. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol will definitely affect healthy blood flow to the vagina. Avid bike riders may also experience a lack of vaginal blood flow. Daily stress can create a drop in sexual interest, along with bouts of anxiety and depression. Talk with your partner about these issues and seek medical treatment, if necessary. 

 

Remember we are living longer. So don’t let old age slow your sexual enjoyment. Lubrication is the key to avoiding discomfort or pain especially if your partner is using erectile dysfunction medications. Kegel exercises can strengthen vaginal muscle tone, making sex more satisfying for you and your partner. Be creative by trying different sexual positions to achieve orgasm.

 

Eating right, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can make all the difference with being “in the mood”.

 

Below are some natural supplements that can help with increasing hormone levels, keeping down inflammation, and improving vascular health.