Sexual Dysfunction can take on many different forms. Here are some examples:

Physical.

Physical conditions that may cause or contribute to sexual problems include arthritis, urinary or bowel difficulties, pelvic surgery, fatigue, headaches, other pain problems and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Many of these concerns may be alleviated by diet modification. Certain medications, including some antidepressants, some blood pressure medications, antihistamines and chemotherapy drugs, can decrease sex drive and reduce your ability to achieve an orgasm.

Hormonal.

Lower estrogen levels during the menopausal transition may lead to changes in your genital tissues and your sexual responsiveness. The folds of skin that cover your genital region (labia) shrink and become thinner, exposing more of the clitoris. This increased exposure sometimes reduces the sensitivity of the clitoris, or may cause an unpleasant tingling or prickling sensation.

In addition, with the thinning and decreased elasticity of its lining, the vagina becomes narrower, particularly if you're not sexually active. Also, the natural swelling and lubrication of the vagina occur more slowly during arousal. These factors can lead to uncomfortable or painful intercourse (dyspareunia), and achieving orgasm may take longer.

It is not unusual for some people to improve these conditions simply by starting to drink enough clean (distilled) water to maintain proper hydration (1/2 ounce per pound of body weight for a person of normal size [not over or under weight]).

Changes associated with the declining estrogen levels of menopause may impact sexual function. However, most women continue to have satisfying sexual intimacy during and after the menopausal transition.

Psychological and Social.

Psychological factors that cause or contribute to sexual problems include emotional difficulties such as untreated anxiety, depression or stress, and/or a history of sexual abuse. During pregnancy, after childbirth (postpartum blues) or while breast-feeding, you may also experience a decrease in sexual desire. .

You may also find it difficult to fill multiple needs and roles, such as job demands, homemaking, being a mother and sometimes also caring for aging parents. Your partner's age and health, your feelings toward your partner, and your view of your body or that of your partner can be additional factors that may combine to cause sexual problems. Cultural and religious issues have also been known to be contributing factors.

Psychological factors almost always contribute to or result from sexual dysfunction. Regardless of the cause of sexual dysfunction, you usually need to address emotional and relationship issues for treatment to be effective. I have never found, in my experience as a psychotherapist, that any type of medication, patent or otherwise, can truly help eliminate sexual dysfunction.

Diet, proper hydration, and exercise patterns can all have a strong influence on these concerns. Discussing your concerns with a nutritional psychotherapist can be a very positive step towards returning to balance.

It is important to note that often times as we age, old habits that were of no concern (i.e.overeating), can become a very big issue. If you feel you may fit into this category, please e-mail me or give me a call. There is no charge for this introductory conversation.

Thank you, Bill Cooper, EFT,TFT, Ph W

Nutritional Psychotherapist,