Sexual dysfunction in women

There is a general acceptance that disorders of sexual dysfunction in both women and men are inseparably the result of both organic disease processes and the psychological interpretation and consequences of a dysfunction. A considerable number of aetiological factors have been identified that may contribute towards dysfunction of sexual response. Both acute and chronic disease can interfere with sexual function and the consequences can be considerable, affecting self-esteem and self-image. Often there are secondary problems with symptoms of fatigue, pain, etc, which affect interpersonal relationships. The consequences of psychological issues on self-esteem, body image and feelings of unworthiness are readily apparent and may compound any effect of existing disease states on sexual function. Similarly, disease states which cause psychological disturbance can have detrimental effects on overall mood, feelings of wellbeing, any intimate relationships and with the normal ageing processes which impair the sexual milieu.