Physical Problems Women Encounter With Sex

Many women experience sexual problems, particularly with orgasm. A woman may be unable to move from the plateau phase into orgasm, which may be very frustrating. She may be able to climax easily from masturbation, but does not do so because of intercourse.

This is now thought to be perfectly normal, and may in fact apply to a sizeable proportion (a third or more) of all women. Problems with orgasm when with a partner can sometimes be because the women or the partner does not know how best she can be sexually stimulated to the point of climax, and a straightforward sex manual can usually help the couple out of this problem. However, there are a number of physical factors that can lead to sexual problems, and these could be considered before a couple goes on to seek psychological help with any sexual difficulty.

 Libido is the interest in or our need for sex, so it is obviously a prerequisite of enjoyable sexual activity. However, there are a number of simple problems that can lead to a decrease in libido, and these are often easily rectified.

Many women report that they have little interest in sex immediately after the birth of a child. This may be a result of the change in hormone levels during and after pregnancy, but it may also be caused simply by physical tiredness.

The Pill can also reduce libido. This is a relatively uncommon effect, and may be easily solved by a change of Pill, of trying a different kind of contraceptive. Once again, it is they change in hormone levels that is said to be responsible.

The menstrual cycle can be accompanied by changes in the level of sexual interest. This should not present a problem once the woman and her partner have understood and accepted these ebbs and flows and their cyclical changes. A small minority of women, however, will experience loss of libido because of hormone deficiency or imbalance that is quite independent of the menstrual cycle, and this needs treatment.

Physical difficulties with arousal and intercourse can also occur because of pregnancy and childbirth. The vagina may be very tender after giving birth, and intercourse should not be attempted until all stiches have healed completely.

Once vaginal soreness has disappeared, (this may take three weeks or more) intercourse can take place as usual.

Painful intercourse needs medical investigation and treatment, as it may indicate gynaecological problems, such a cysts on the ovaries or an infection inside the uterus.