Table of Contents
- Overview
- Prevention
- Images
Couples who clearly communicate their sexual needs and desires, verbally or nonverbally, will experience orgasmic dysfunction less frequently.
It is also important to realize that sexual response is a complex coordination of the mind and the body, and both need to be functioning well for orgasms to happen.
SYMPTOMS
The symptom of orgasmic dysfunction is being unable to reach orgasm, taking longer than you want to reach orgasm, or having only unsatisfying orgasms.
SIGNS AND TESTS
A complete medical history and physical examination needs to be done, but results are almost always normal. If the problem began after starting a medication, this should be discussed with the doctor who prescribed the drug. A qualified specialist in sex therapy may be helpful.
TREATMENT
Treatment can involve education, cognitive behavioral therapy, teaching orgasm by focusing on pleasurable stimulation, and directed masturbation.
Most women require clitoral stimulation to reach an orgasm. Incorporating this into sexual activity may be all that is necessary. If this doesn't solve the problem, then teaching the woman to masturbate may help her understand what she needs to become sexually excited.
A series of couple exercises to practice communication, more effective stimulation, and playfulness can help. If relationship difficulties play a role, treatment may include communication training and relationship enhancement work.
Medical problems, new medications, or untreated depression may need evaluation and treatment in order for orgasmic dysfunction to improve. The role of hormone supplementation in treating orgasmic dysfunction is controversial and the long-term risks remain unclear.
If other sexual dysfunctions (such as lack of interest and pain during intercourse) are happening at the same time, these need to be addressed as part of the treatment plan.
EXPECTATIONS (PROGNOSIS)
Women tend to have better results with treatment if their orgasmic dysfunction is due to another condition. Women with orgasmic dysfunction that is not due to another condition often do better when treatment involves learning sexual techniques or a method called desensitization, which gradually stops the response that causes lack of orgasms. Desensitization is helpful for women with significant sexual anxiety.
Improved orgasmic function is usually associated with being emotionally healthy and having a loving, affectionate relationship with a partner.
COMPLICATIONS
When sex is not enjoyable, it can become a chore rather than a mutually satisfying, intimate experience. When orgasmic dysfunction continues to happen, sexual desire usually declines, and eventually sex occurs less often. This can create resentment and conflict in the relationship.
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)
