Sexual Dysfunction

If you experience difficulty enjoying or engaging in sex, you’re not alone – around 43% of women and 31% of men experience some form of sexual dysfunction, according to a 1999 study. Sexual dysfunction can take many different forms and have many different causes, but your board-certified urologist can help you find the treatment that works best for you.

What is Sexual Dysfunction?

Sexual dysfunction is any disruption of the sexual response cycle (excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution) that prevents you from enjoying sexual activity. Sexual dysfunction can occur at any age but is most common in patients over the age of 40 because it can be closely tied to symptoms of aging. It can also be caused by medical or physical conditions like cardiovascular problems, neurological disorders, hormone imbalance, chronic diseases, drug and alcohol use, or prescription medications like antidepressants. It may also have mental or emotional causes like mood disorders, stress, relationship problems, or poor self-esteem.

What are the Symptoms of Sexual Dysfunction?

There are different types of dysfunction, including:

• Lack of desire or interest in sex
• Inability to become physically or mentally aroused
• Delay or absence of orgasm
• Pain during intercourse

In men, sexual dysfunction can also manifest as erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction, or low sex drive. In women, it can also manifest as inability to achieve orgasm, vaginal dryness, or inability to relax the vaginal muscles. Whatever your unique concerns, you can find treatment with the help of your board-certified urologist.

What are My Treatment Options?

There are a variety of options available to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Your urologist can help you select the right options for your needs.

Medications

Medications exist for both men and women to boost sexual function and desire. These can include Viagra® or Cialis® for men, or hormonal medications or bremelanotide for women. Additionally, sexual dysfunction can sometimes be treated by adjusting the medications you currently take (like antidepressants) and looking into alternatives with the help of your urologist and general practitioner.

Therapy

Treatment with a licensed therapist can be helpful for patients who are experiencing sexual dysfunction because of mood disorders, anxiety around sex, relationship problems, poor body image, and many other mental and emotional factors. Your urologist can help you determine what kind of therapist you should look for, whether it’s a relationship therapist, sex therapist, or trained counselor.

Mechanical Aids

There are many tools available to help you perform or enjoy sex. For men with erectile dysfunction, these can include vacuum pumps or penile implants. For women, dilators can be helpful if sex is painful because of vaginal narrowing – vibrators can also help achieve orgasm and improve sexual enjoyment.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re looking to find relief from sexual dysfunction, a private consultation with Dr. Houman is your best place to start. To schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (310) 854-7822 or filling out our online form.

An expert in his field

Meet Dr. Houman

Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Urologist and Men’s Health specialist whose mission is to enhance men’s quality of life by improving their sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Houman’s focus is on making a difference in people’s lives through state-of-the-art, compassionate, and personally tailored care.

       

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