Saving your Sex Life – It’s not Viagra!

By: Dr. Jan Seibert

With life’s pressing demands, most men and women at some point of their lives will suffer from sexual dysfunction. Media coverage focuses primarily on male erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, so little media attention is targeted at problems facing women sexual health issues. Presently, commercial products to help women “get into the mood” are not openly advertised.

By 2010, over 50 million female baby boomers will reach the age of menopause. Most of these women will struggle with sexual health problems. The two main culprits are a drop of sex hormone produced and a lack of blood flow to the vaginal region caused by vascular conditions, such as high cholesterol, nerve damage from diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Years ago, the American Psychological Association classified female sexual problems as mental disorders and prescribed antidepressants to address these problems making the condition worse from the drug’s side effects.

Today more urologists and gynecologists treat the medical conditions causing diminished blood flow and nerve damage to the pelvic/vaginal regions.

Some of the symptoms women may experience are:

* Painful sex
* Inability to achieve orgasm
* Decreased vaginal blood flow.

Vaginal dryness is the one of the most common sexual health problem facing menopausal women. Some find relief using over the counter lubricants. However, more serious issues can be present that require a medical examination. Shrinking of the vaginal wall can affect the amount of lubrication present. Untreated, the vaginal wall can tear and bleed making sex painful. Women should have annual vaginal exams to monitor vaginal dryness.

Certain drugs affect women’s sexual health. Oral birth control pills, various blood pressure medications, and antidepressants can rob a woman’s ability to experience orgasms. If you notice a decreased interest in sex or are no longer able to achieve satisfying orgasms, check with the pharmacist to see if the medications your taking may be the culprit. Then see your doctor about other medication options.

Lifestyle choices also affect women’s sexual health. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol will definitely affect healthy blood flow to the vagina. Avid bike riders may also experience a lack of vaginal blood flow. Daily stress can create a drop in sexual interest, along with bouts of anxiety and depression. Talk with your partner about these issues and seek medical treatment, if necessary.

Remember we are living longer. So don’t let old age slow your sexual enjoyment. Lubrication is the key to avoiding discomfort or pain especially if your partner is using erectile dysfunction medications. Kegel exercises can strengthen vaginal muscle tone, making sex more satisfying for you and your partner. Finally, eating right, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can make all the difference with “getting in the mood”.