Table of Contents
- Overview
- Prevention
- Images
Alternative Names
Inhibited sexual excitement; Sex - orgasmic dysfunction; Anorgasmia
Information
Orgasmic dysfunction is when a woman either can't reach orgasm, or has difficulty reaching orgasm when she is sexually excited.
CAUSES, INCIDENCE, AND RISK FACTORS
The condition is called primary orgasmic dysfunction when a woman has never had an orgasm. This is the case in 10 - 15% of women. It is called secondary orgasmic dysfunction when a woman has had at least one orgasm in the past, but is currently unable to have one. Surveys suggest that 33 - 50% of women are dissatisfied with how often they reach orgasm.
Many factors can contribute to orgasmic dysfunction. They include:
- A history of sexual abuse or rape
- Boredom and monotony in sexual activity
- Certain prescription drugs, including fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft)
- Hormonal disorders, hormonal changes due to menopause, and chronic illnesses that affect general health and sexual interest
- Medical conditions that affect the nerve supply to the pelvis (such as multiple sclerosis, diabetic neuropathy, and spinal cord injury)
- Negative attitudes toward sex (usually learned in childhood or adolescence)
- Shyness or embarrassment about asking for whatever type of stimulation works best
- Strife or lack of emotional closeness within the relationship
PREVENTION
A healthy attitude toward sex, and education about sexual stimulation and response will minimize problems.
Review Date: 06/05/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound,
Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of
Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
