More than 90% of women feel that sexual problems can negatively affect their quality of life. Studies show that there is a connection between sexual health, and overall well being. A woman with a satisfying sex life is usually happier in her relationship.
Over a third of women experience some kind of sexual problem, and many of them find this distressing. Both medical and psychosocial problems can be factors in a woman's sexual dysfunction, and they can sometimes be combined.
Common medical problems that can cause sexual dysfunction include bowel problems, urinary incontinence, pain, kidney and thyroid problems,
Common psychosocial and emotional issues include relationship concerns, a past history of abuse, body image concerns, and simple issues like privacy. Interestingly women who are divorced, or widowed, seem less likely to have sexual difficulties than women in a current relationship. Unfortunately up to one in four women who complain of reduced sexual desire also experience depression. Some anti-depressant medications can make this worse.
Sexual dysfunction is not uncommon after childbirth. A few months after giving birth to their first child, three out of four women say they have some kind of postpartum sexual dysfunction.
If you are distressed by a reduction in sexual desire you are not alone. At least one in ten women experience Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). This can lead to anger, decreased self-esteem or a sense of hopelessness. Some women feel a decreased sense of femininity.
If you have concerns like this you may want to talk with your primary care doctor, or gynecologist, to exclude any physical cause for your concerns about sex.
If you need to explore these emotional aspects you may contact Dr. Hudson knowing he has over thirty years experience as a physician, and is trained in both medicine and psychotherapy. Using traditional psychotherapeutic methods Dr. Hudson will work with you to explore your understanding of your sexual response, and increase your enjoyment of sexual activity.