Sexual dysfunctions can be uncomfortable to discuss, but they affect many couples and single individuals. These disorders, in both men and women, impact emotional and physical well-being and relationships. Recognizing and understanding them is the first step to restoring intimate harmony.
Sexual dysfunctions: what they are and how they manifest
Sexual dysfunction occurs when there are difficulties in any phase of the sexual response cycle (desire, arousal, orgasm, or resolution) that prevent full enjoyment. This can cause stress, frustration, and tension in the relationship.
Most common types
They can appear at any adult stage:
- Inhibited sexual desire: Little or no motivation to engage in sexual activity.
- Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Premature or delayed ejaculation: Ejaculating in less than 1 minute or taking more than 30 minutes.
- Dyspareunia and vaginismus: Pain during intercourse, measured on a 0 to 10 scale.
Causes and treatments
Causes: Physical (diabetes, cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, medications) or psychological (stress, anxiety, depression), or a combination of both.
Treatments: Psychological therapy, medications such as PDE5 inhibitors, vacuum devices, or couples therapy. Never self-medicate; always consult an assisted reproduction specialist.
The value of professional support
Talking with your partner and a specialist is essential. At Ingenes we offer a warm, personalized approach, evaluating your medical, emotional, and relationship history to design the best plan.
We have advanced fertility and sexual health technologies, as well as resources on common fertility challenges and support therapies that improve your chances of success.
Steps to get started today
- Consult an assisted reproduction specialist.
- Undergo emotional and physical assessments with lab tests.
- Consider couples or individual therapy.
- Keep a sexual diary to identify patterns.
Frequently asked questions
1. When should I seek help?
If symptoms persist for more than six months and cause distress, see a doctor. Early diagnosis (with hormonal tests and imaging studies) improves outcomes.
Do not minimize symptoms like lack of desire or pain; avoid self-medication and seek an assisted reproduction specialist if you plan to conceive.
2. Are treatments safe when trying to conceive?
Some medications may affect fertility. That’s why specialist supervision with evidence-based protocols and precise dosages is key.
3. Why psychological therapy?
Cognitive-behavioral and couples therapy reduce anticipatory anxiety and improve communication. Around 60–70% of patients see improvement after 10–15 sessions, especially when addressing trauma or negative beliefs.
4. Are vacuum devices safe?
They are effective and non-invasive, with up to 80% satisfaction. They generate negative pressure (mmHg) to improve blood flow. Use under medical supervision to avoid injuries, respecting the maximum time (30 minutes per session).
Sources Consulted
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596
- NIH. (2023). Sexual Dysfunction. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/sexualdysfunction.html
- Porst, H., & Sharlip, I. D. (2005). Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2(1), 26–35. doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2005.20102.x
- Rosen, R. C., et al. (2000). FSFI: Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 26(2), 191–208. doi.org/10.1080/009262300278597
Remember: you are not alone. Open communication and professional help bring you closer to intimate well-being and your goal of becoming a parent. See a fertilization specialist for expert, personalized guidance.