How Is a Female Sexual Problem
Diagnosed?
To diagnose
a woman's sexual problem, the doctor likely will begin with a thorough
evaluation of symptoms and a physical exam.
The doctor may
perform a pelvic
exam to evaluate the health of the
reproductive organs and a Pap smear to
detect changes in the cells of the cervix (to check for cancer or a pre-cancerous condition).
He or she
may order other tests to rule out any medical problems that may be contributing
to the problem.
An
evaluation of your attitude regarding sex, as well as other possible
contributing factors (fear, anxiety, past sexual trauma/abuse, relationship
problems, alcohol or drug abuse, for example) will help the doctor understand
the underlying cause of the problem and make appropriate recommendations for
treatment.
How Are Female Sexual Problems
Treated?
The ideal
approach to treating sexual problems in women involves a team effort between
the woman, doctors, and trained therapists.
Most types
of sexual problems can be corrected by treating the underlying physical or
psychological problems.
Other
treatment strategies focus on the following:
Providing
education.
Education
about human anatomy, sexual function, and the normal changes associated with
aging, as well as sexual behaviors and responses, may help a woman overcome her
anxieties about sexual function and performance.
Enhancing
stimulation.
This may
include the use of erotic materials (videos or books), masturbation, and changes to sexual routines.
Providing
distraction techniques.
Erotic or
non-erotic fantasies, exercises with intercourse, music, videos, or television
can be used to increase relaxation and eliminate anxiety.
Encouraging
non-coital behaviors.
Non-coital
behaviors (physically stimulating activity that does not include intercourse),
such as sensual massage, can be used to promote comfort and increase
communication between partners.
Minimizing
pain.
Using sexual
positions that allow the woman to control the depth of penetration may help
relieve some pain.
The use of
vaginal lubricants can help reduce pain caused by friction, and a warm bath
before intercourse can help increase relaxation.
Continued in
Part 4
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