Imagine a scenario, where a woman despite having a loving and supportive relationship with her partner, subtly starts facing difficulties in reaching orgasm. Over time, these difficulties progressed into a persistent inability to become aroused, leaving her feeling frustrated, inadequate, and isolated. This condition is often caused due to Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), and millions of women are globally affected by it (Holland, 2019). Women suffering from FSAD might feel a disconnect between their physical body and emotional desire, which causes immense stress (Loggins, 2023).
Female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD) is often overlooked as just an issue of lower libido. However, FSAD comprises more than just infrequent interest in sex. Patients suffering from FSAD show a persistent lack of interest, desire, or trouble with arousal. In normal circumstances, a dip in sexual desire can happen due to factors which are beyond control (Eske, 2020). Events of high stress, relationship trouble, pregnancy or going through menopause are some such factors. But FSAD is not caused due to any particular circumstance. It significantly affects the self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being of a woman (Holland, 2019).
Generally, female sexual health is the most neglected aspect of the overall well-being of a woman. This phenomenon is quite prevalent in patriarchal societies. Though under-reported FSAD is a highly prevalent medical issue which involves a complex interplay of psychosocial and physiological factors. As per a 2018 study, FSAD affects 41% of women of reproductive age globally (McCool-Myers et al., 2018).
Causes of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD): Physical, Psychological and Interpersonal Dimensions
The underlying causes of FSAD are multifaceted and complex. It involves a combination of psychological, physical and interpersonal factors. Brotto et al. (2016) discussed in their study that the common psychological factors causing FSAD are stress, anxiety and depression. These factors significantly hinder the ability of women to become aroused. As per Althof & Needle (2013), a major factor causing FSAD are relationship issues like communication problems or unresolved conflicts. These factors can create a tense and unsupportive environment which might dampen arousal.
Physical factors like imbalances in hormones, chronic pain and certain medications might contribute to FSAD (Assalian, 2013). Like, low estrogen levels, a hormone essential for sexual function, can decrease vaginal lubrication and reduced sensitivity, making arousal challenging. Furthermore, there are certain medications like anti-depressants and medications to regulate blood pressure that may cause side effects. These side effects play a role in FSAD (Graziottin et al., 2022).
According to Conger (2022), there are several interpersonal factors which contribute to FSAD. History of sexual trauma, surgeries, religious constraints, sexual abuse or event-based trauma might create negative associations with sex. This negative feeling can create a sense of fear or anxiety which might interfere with arousal.
Effect Of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder
There is a profound effect of female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD) on the sexual and emotional well-being of a woman. Being unable to become aroused or experience sexual satisfaction can cause frustration, inadequacy and guilt in the patient. These feelings hurt the self-esteem and confidence of women suffering from FSAD (Graziottin et al., 2022). In some cases, FSAD can also result in strain in relationships causing tension and resentment among the partners (Loggins, 2023).
The physiological effects of FSAD can go beyond the sexual concerns, which might affect the overall mental health of the women. As a result of FSAD, a woman might suffer from anxiety, depression and even social withdrawal (Loggins, 2023)
Therapies & Treatment for Treating Female Sexual Arousal Disorder
For the treatment of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), a multi-disciplinary approach is the best suited. The treatment of FSAD is generally based on determining the underlying causes and then treating those issues. Depending upon the underlying cause, treatments for FSAD can include mediation therapy or a combination of both (Conger, 2022).
There are several therapies for treating FSAD. To treat patient-specific psychological factors, psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy can be suggested by doctors (Prabhu et al., 2022). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) can help women suffering from FSAD to improve their arousal, motivation and subsequent desire and motivation (Prabhu et al., 2022).
To treat hormonal causes for FSAD, which necessitates targeted treatment, clinicians might suggest estrogen therapy or testosterone therapy. There is also hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which can help restore the hormonal balance and improve sexual function. Through HRT it is possible to treat the symptoms like decreased vaginal lubrication and reduced sensitivity, making arousal more attainable (Conn & Hodges, 2023).
Conclusion
The causes of female sexual arousal disorder are quite complex and involve a multifaceted approach to its treatment. Developing a better understanding of the factors which cause and the effects of FSAD can go a long way in its treatment (Holland, 2019).
A woman suffering from the symptoms of FSAD must have open communication with her partner (Conn & Hodges, 2023). She should seek support from a therapist or a counsellor which can alleviate the symptoms.
These steps play a positive role in enhancing the healing process and fostering a more fulfilling and satisfying sexual life.
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