Sexual Problems in Men and Women
Sexual dysfunction or sexual problem in general is defined as the inability to fully enjoy sexual intercourse. Specifically, sexual dysfunctions are disorders that interfere with a full sexual response cycle resulting in dissatisfaction (ie., prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity).
These disorders make it difficult for a person to enjoy or to have sexual intercourse. While sexual dysfunction rarely threatens physical health, it can take a heavy psychological toll, bringing on depression, anxiety, and debilitating feelings of inadequacy. Several factors consistently elevated the likelihood of sexual problems. Age was an important correlate of lubrication difficulties among women and of several sexual problems, including a lack of interest in sex, the inability to reach orgasm, and erectile difficulties among men.
Description of Sexual Dysfunction / Problems
Sexual dysfunction takes different forms in men and women. A dysfunction can be life-long and always present, acquired, situational, or generalized, occurring despite the situation. A man may have a sexual problem if he:
- ejaculates before he or his partner desires
- does not ejaculate, or experiences delayed ejaculation
- is unable to have an erection sufficient for pleasurable intercourse
- lacks or loses sexual desire
- feels pain during intercourse
A woman may have a sexual problem if she:
- lacks or loses sexual desire
- has difficulty achieving orgasm
- feels anxiety during intercourse
- feels pain during intercourse
- feels vaginal or other muscles contract involuntarily before or during sex
- has inadequate lubrication
The most common sexual dysfunctions in men include:
Erectile dysfunction: an impairment of the erectile reflex. The man is unable to have or maintain an erection that is firm enough for coitus or intercourse.
Premature ejaculation: rapid ejaculation with minimal sexual stimulation before, on, or shortly after penetration and before the person wishes it.
Ejaculatory incompetence: the inability to ejaculate within the vagina despite a firm erection and relatively high levels of sexual arousal.
Retarded ejaculation: a condition in which the bladder neck does not close off properly during orgasm so that the semen spurts backward into the bladder.