Alterations in Sexual Function Flashcards
What are the types of sexual dysfunction?
Problems with desire, arousal, or orgasm. Sexual pain disorders: vulvar pain (specific disorder) and vulvodynia. Must assess if the patient perceives it as a problem.
What are the prevalence rates of sexual dysfunction among women?
44% of women report sexual dysfunction. 39% report low desire, 26% report low arousal, and 21% report difficulty with orgasm. Factors include developmental, health, partner, relationship, and sociocultural influences.
What is the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)?
A tool that assesses sexual health across domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain.
What defines sexual interest/desire disorder?
Absent or diminished sexual interest or desire. Lack of sexual thoughts or fantasies. Often influenced by psychological, physical, or relational factors.
What is sexual arousal disorder?
Absence or impairment of genital sexual arousal. May involve lack of lubrication or genital engorgement. Smoking and alcohol can impair arousal.
How is female orgasmic disorder defined?
Marked delay, infrequency, or absence of orgasm. Reduced intensity of orgasmic sensations. Lasts more than six months and affects quality of life.
What is dyspareunia?
Persistent or recurrent pain during or after vaginal penetration. Causes may be physical or psychological. Treatment depends on the underlying etiology.
What is vulvodynia?
Persistent or recurrent vulvar pain without a clear identifiable cause. Often requires multidisciplinary treatment approaches.
What are the treatment options for sexual dysfunction?
Pharmacologic: Antibiotics, corticosteroids, localized estrogen therapy, or hormonal therapy.
Nonpharmacologic: Pelvic floor physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acupuncture.
Lifestyle modifications: Smoking cessation, limiting alcohol, addressing relationship factors.
When should a referral to a sexual therapist be considered?
For longstanding or multiple dysfunctions. Cases involving abuse, psychological disorders, or dysfunctions unresponsive to therapy. Sex therapists specialize in psychotherapy for sexual problems.
