Sexual dysfunction is any problem that prevents an individual from being satisfied during sexual activity. Problems occurring in one or more stages of the sexual response cycle, which occurs in the stages of desire, plateau, arousal, and resolution, lead to sexual dysfunctions. Studies have shown that approximately half of women and approximately one-third of men experience sexual dysfunction at least once in their lifetime. Although studies indicate that sexual dysfunction is common, many people hesitate to talk about it. However, since it is possible to treat these disorders, it is important for people to share their concerns and reservations about their sexual activities with their partners and to apply to a health institution for treatment when necessary.
Male Sexual Dysfunctions
Although sexual dysfunctions can be seen in men at any age, their incidence generally increases in advanced age. The most common causes of sexual dysfunction in men are ejaculation problems, erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual desire. These problems can usually be corrected by treating the underlying cause. The causes of sexual dysfunction are divided into two as physical and psychological. Physical causes include:
- low testosterone levels,
- The use of drugs such as antidepressants, hypertension drugs,
- Blood vessel disorders such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries),
- Nerve damage or stroke due to diabetes or surgery
- smoking,
- Excessive alcohol consumption or use of addictive substances.
The psychological causes of sexual dysfunction in men are as follows:
- Concern about sexual performance.
- Marriage or relationship problems
- Depression or feelings of guilt
- Effects of past sexual trauma
- Work-related stress and anxiety.
HOW IS MALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION DIAGNOSED?
In order to diagnose sexual dysfunctions, some examinations and controls are required. These include measuring blood pressure and performing an examination of the penis, testis and prostate, as well as measuring blood levels of testosterone, blood sugar and cholesterol. In addition, additional tests may be required to detect problems that may occur in blood flow into the penis. Before the examination, medical and sexual history is usually questioned in detail in order to understand the source of the problem. Although the questions asked are specific and many people hesitate, it is important to answer the questions correctly so that the diagnosis can be made and the treatment selected. Since the diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunctions concern many branches, referrals can be made to different doctors such as urology, endocrinology and psychiatry specialists.
HOW CAN MEN PROTECT FROM SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION?
In order to prevent sexual dysfunctions, it is necessary to stay away from the causative factors. Therefore, it is important to know the causes that will cause the problem and to organize the lifestyle accordingly. The steps to be taken in order to protect sexual health are generally the same as for cardiovascular diseases. Some of the recommended methods for prevention are as follows:
- To regularly follow the treatment plan recommended by doctors for medical conditions (such as not disrupting the drugs given against diseases),
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting the use of cigarettes and tobacco products,
- Switching to a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet,
- Receiving treatment or therapy, if necessary, in case of emotional or psychological problems such as stress, depression and anxiety,
- More frequent and better communication with the partner.
TREATMENT OF MALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
Although it is possible to eliminate sexual dysfunctions by correcting the underlying psychological or physical problems, it is not beneficial in some cases. In these cases, other treatment methods are used. Sexual dysfunctions manifested by ejaculation problem, erectile dysfunction or decreased sexual desire are treated according to the situation. Some antidepressants may be prescribed for premature ejaculation. There are also creams with local anesthetic effects used to delay ejaculation. Drugs that reduce the production of the phosphodiesterase-5 enzyme and increase blood flow to the penis as a result can be used in both premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Apart from these drugs, the problem of erection in erectile dysfunction can also be treated with penile injection or vacuum devices used before sexual intercourse. Penile implants, which provide artificial hardening in erectile dysfunction, are also among the treatment options used for many years. In sexual dysfunctions caused by low testosterone level, hormone replacement therapy is applied to increase the hormone level to normal levels. In addition, psychological therapy can be treated by psychological counselors in case of anxiety, depression, fear or guilt that affects sexual functions.
Sexual Dysfunctions in Women
Sexual dysfunctions, which manifest as sexual response, desire, problems with orgasm, or pain, are quite common in women. Sexual dysfunction in women can occur at any point in life. The complaint of decreased sexual desire and desire is the most common symptom of sexual dysfunction. In addition, difficulty in sexual arousal, difficulty in reaching orgasm, and pain with sexual stimulation are other complaints. The sexual response involves the interaction of emotions, experiences, beliefs, lifestyle and relationships with physiology in women. The treatment process usually includes more than one approach, as deterioration in any of these can lead to sexual dysfunction. People who have these problems should apply to health institutions so that their treatment is not delayed.
HOW IS FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION DIAGNOSED?
The diagnosis of sexual dysfunctions often proceeds in the same way as with men. In particular, detailed evaluation of sexual and medical history has an important role in establishing the correct diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment. Since sexual dysfunction may occur as a result of removal of the uterus or ovaries, explaining the operations and other diseases is effective in diagnosing. Physical changes that affect sexual stimulation such as thinning of genital tissues, decrease in skin elasticity, injury or pain are evaluated in the examination. In addition, blood tests can detect other medical causes that may cause sexual dysfunction. Hormone imbalances are also examined with blood tests. Also, ultrasound Any tumor, cyst or tissue change can be detected using imaging methods such as tomography or magnetic resonance (MR). As a result of the examinations and examinations, the physician may direct women who have sexual dysfunction to consultants or therapists who are experts in relationship problems and sexual health.
HOW CAN WOMEN BE PROTECTED FROM SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION?
Sexual dysfunctions are more common in women. Although it is more common during pregnancy or menopause, when hormone changes are intense, it can also occur in serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. While there is no clear way to prevent sexual dysfunction in women, there are some changes that can be implemented to reduce the risk.
These changes generally prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases and psychological problems that can cause sexual dysfunction:
- Avoiding the use of harmful substances,
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy body weight,
- Doing regular exercise
- To seek psychological help in the early period in case of difficulties in communicating with the partner or in cases of depression or anxiety.
TREATMENT OF FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
Treatment is not necessary unless sexual dysfunctions bother the individual. Sexual dysfunctions that start to bother people should be treated. Since sexual dysfunction in women can have many symptoms and causes, the treatment method may also vary. For this reason, it is of great importance for people to communicate about their concerns and understand their bodies well. Goals in sexual life and how important these goals are for the person are important in choosing the treatment. Women with sexual concerns benefit greatly from the application of medical treatment along with relationship and emotional problems. Understanding the physical and psychological causes of sexual dysfunction in women affects treatment.
The treatment methods used are:
- Arousal Techniques: Different ways to increase sexual desire and arousal should be discussed with the partner. In addition, some methods can be tried to help with sexual arousal.
- Counseling: In order to overcome especially emotional or psychological barriers in sexual intercourse, support can be obtained from psychologists or psychiatrists experienced in relationship therapy.
- Hormone Therapy: Depending on the symptoms, hormone therapy can improve in some cases.
- Drug Treatment : Some drugs can be used to improve sexual desire disorder in women.
- Pain Management: For women who experience pain during intercourse, relaxation and relaxation techniques can be applied before intercourse.
Since sexual dysfunctions can cause serious problems if not treated, medical support should be sought by applying to a health institution.