Female Sexual Arousal Disorder

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD) is characterized by a recurrent inability to achieve or maintain sufficient sexual arousal, even when desire and opportunity for sexual activity are present. Women with FSAD may notice inadequate vaginal lubrication, limited genital swelling, blunted sensations, or a lack of pleasurable excitement during foreplay or intercourse, which can make sex unsatisfying or uncomfortable. The condition can be purely physical, purely subjective, or a combination: in some women the body does not respond despite feeling “turned on,” while in others the body responds but they do not feel mentally aroused.?

Contributing factors include hormonal changes, chronic illnesses, pelvic or genital conditions, certain medications, depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, stress, and past sexual trauma. Diagnosis involves a detailed medical, sexual, and psychosocial history, evaluation for pain or other sexual dysfunctions, and assessment of how long symptoms have been present and how distressing they are. Management is individualized and may include education, counseling or sex therapy, addressing relationship issues, optimizing general health, adjusting medications, treating hormonal or gynecological problems, and sometimes pharmacologic options aimed at improving sexual response. Early recognition helps restore comfort, intimacy, and sexual confidence.