The term sexual dysfunction refers to impairment either in the desire for sexual gratification or in the ability to achieve it. They vary markedly in degree and regardless of which the partner is alleged to be dysfunctional, the enjoyment of sex by both partners in a relationship is typically adversely affected. They occur in both heterosexual and homosexual couples. In some cases, sexual dysfunctions are caused by dysfunctional psychosexual adjustment and learning. In others, organic factors are most important. In recent years, both explanations and treatment of sexual dysfunction have become increasingly physiological.

The fours phases of human sexual response:

There are four relatively distinct phases of the human sexual response. Disorders can occur in any of the first three phases. The first phase is the desire phase, which consists of fantasies about sexual activity or a sense of desire to have sexual activity. The second phase is the excitement phase during which there is generally both a subjective sense of sexual pleasure and physiological changes that accompany this subjective pleasure, including penile erection in the male and vaginal lubrication and enlargement in the female. The third phase is orgasm, during which there is a release of sexual tension and a peaking of sexual pleasure. The final phase is resolution, during which the person has a sense of relaxation and well being.

How common are Sexual Dysfunctions?

According to a study, the most common complains for women were lack of sexual interest (33%) and inability to experience orgasm (24%). For men, climaxing too early (29%), anxiety about sexual performance (17%) and lack of sexual interest (16%). Altogether, 45% of men and 55% of women reported some dysfunctions.

Types of Sexual Dysfunctions:

Dysfunctions of sexual desire

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder: Lack or no sexual drive or interest.

Sexual aversion disorder: Total lack of interest in sex and avoidance of sexual contact.

Dysfunctions of sexual Arousal:

Male erectile disorder: Inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

Female sexual arousal disorder: No responsiveness to erotic stimulation both physically and emotionally.

Dysfunctions of Orgasm:

Premature ejaculation: Unsatisfactory brief period between the beginning or sexual stimulation and the occurrence of ejaculation.

Male orgasmic disorder: Inability to ejaculate during intercourse.

Female orgasmic disorder: Difficulty in achieving orgasm, either manually or during sexual intercourse.

Sexual Pain disorders:

Vaginismus: Involuntary muscle spasm at the entrance to the vagina that prevents penetration and sexual intercourse.

Dyspareunia: Painful coitus may have either an organic or psychological basis.