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Orgasmic Disorder, now referred to as Female Orgasmic Disorder (FOD), is the difficulty or inability for a woman to reach orgasm during sexual stimulation. According to Psychology Today, this disturbance must cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulty in order to be diagnosed. The diagnosis given to men is not orgasmic disorder, but rather erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation.
Generalized or Situational Symptoms
For women with female orgasmic disorder, orgasm is either completely absent or significantly reduced in intensity on almost all (or all occasions) of sexual activity. This condition can be either lifelong or acquired after a period of relatively normal sexual function. It can also be generalized, or not limited to certain types of stimulation, situations or partners, or it can be situational, occurring with certain types of stimulation, situations or partners.
The prevalence of this disorder varies, ranging from ten to 42 percent of all women, depending on age, culture, duration and severity of symptoms. Some women who experience orgasmic difficulties never experience any associated distress. Approximately ten percent of women do not experience orgasm throughout their lifetime.
A wide variety of factors can impact a woman’s ability to experience orgasm. These include anxiety, depression, pregnancy concerns, relationship problems, and physical or mental health. Gender roles and religious norms can also influence the orgasm experience.
Root Causes
Drugs and alcohol may lessen orgasmic responsiveness. Medical conditions, hormone disorders and chronic illnesses that affect general sexual interest and health may also be factors. Negative attutudes toward sex during childhood may affect a person’s responsiveness, as may experiences of sexual abuse or rape. Boredom and monotony of sexual activity may serve as contributing factors, as can shyness or embarrassment about asking a partner for whatever type of stimulation would work best. A lack of emotional closeness within the relationship can certainly lessen orgasmic reponsiveness as well.
Medical conditions, new medications, untreated anxiety and depression may need to be evaluated for orgasmic dysfunction to improve. The role of hormone supplements for treating orgasmic dysfunction is controversial, and the long-term risks remain unclear. If lack of interest and the presence of pain during intercourse are happening at the same time, these need to be addressed as part of a treatment plan by a qualified sex therapist.
Sex as a Chore
When sex is not enjoyable, it can become a chore instead of a mutually satisfying, playful and intimate experience. In addition, when orgasmic disorder persists, sexual desire declines and frequency of intercourse wanes, causing resentment and conflict in the relationship.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
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