FSD and Your Mind: Overcoming Psychological Issues to Regain a Healthy Sex life

Even when female sexual dysfunction has a physical basis, the psychological aspects of female sexuality shouldn't be ignored. The female libido is not only based on a woman's physical needs—her mind is a vital part of her sexuality.
 
Our well-being and health are affected by our sexuality. When we're tense, worried or stressed, women have difficulty enjoying sexual relations. Many sex therapists recommend using Kegel exercises to both strengthen the pelvic muscles and to learn how to relax those same muscles, making sex more enjoyable. Other body-mind relaxation techniques include meditation, warm baths and massage.
 
Psychological factors affecting the female libido include:
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • drug or alcohol use
  • fatigue
  • a history of sexual abuse
  • a low self-image
  • sexual boredom
  • situational distractions
  • stress.
If you've identified one or more of the psychological factors above as a cause of your sexual problems, you've taken an important step towards solving the problems. Experts often recommend a sex therapist if you find that one or more psychological issues is affecting your sex life.
 
However, a sex therapist is not a cure-all. If you suffer from chronic anxiety or depression, or you're addicted to drugs or alcohol, talk to your primary care physician or a professional that you trust.
 
If you're uncomfortable with the idea of sex therapy, or you don’t think it’s right for you, you can try a number of other treatments to improve your sexual health, such as:
  • cutting down on alcohol consumption, particularly before bed
  • ensuring you're getting enough sleep
  • making your bedroom a place of rest and relaxation, free of distractions such as cell phones, computers and TV
  • taking time for yourself each day or using other techniques to combat stress
  • taking time to explore your sexual fantasies
  • treating psychological issues such as depression or anxiety
  • working to improve your self-confidence by exercising, eating healthfully and wearing clothing that makes you feel confident.

Depression and FSD

Depression affects the neurotransmitters that stimulate blood flow to a woman’s sex organs. This effect manifests itself as a low libido. In addition, depression lowers the level of the chemicals in our brains that simulate pleasure. And to top it off, most anti-depressants adversely affect female libido!
 
If you think you're depressed, you should seek help from a doctor or psychologist. While antidepressants can have an adverse effect on your sex life, treating your depression is crucial to your overall health and will help you eventually regain a fulfilling sex life.

Sex Therapy

Because self-help is difficult when it comes to sexual dysfunction, sex therapists help men and women, as individuals and as couples, with sexual expression. Even couples who are not dealing with sexual dysfunction per se often seek the services of a sex therapist to help enhance their sexual relationship.
 
Seeking help through sex therapy is not something you should be ashamed of; be proud that you had the strength to seek help and the desire to strengthen your sexual relationship with your partner! Unfortunately, many women and men do not have this resolve.

How to Choose a Sex Therapist

Because this is a relatively new field of study, many medical doctors do not have the clinical background or training to advise a patient with sexual dysfunction. Many states do not require certification for a physician, mental health professional or social worker to practice sex therapy. Seeking out a certified sex therapist is the safest option. Other factors to consider when making your selection include:
  • affiliation with a university or hospital
  • board certification in sexology
  • length of time practicing sex therapy
  • licensure or degree in a related field, such as clinical psychology.

What to Expect from Sex Therapy

While sex therapists may differ in their approach to and treatment of sex problems, some generalizations can be made about what you can expect from your sex therapist:
  • a comfortable environment
  • a non-judgmental attitude
  • assignments or tasks between sessions
  • explicit, straightforward talk about sex—by your therapist and you
  • no stereotyping
  • respect for your values.

Resources

Berman, J. (2001). Getting your groove back: Overcoming sexual obstacles. Retrieved September 15, 2001, from the ABC News Web site: http://www.abcnews.go.com/sections/community/DailyNews/chat_bermans011601.html.
 
Medicinenet. (2004). Women and body image. Retrieved November 30, 2008, from the Medicine Net Web site: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=19804.
 
Vorvick, L. (2008). Health guide: Female sexual dysfunction. Retrieved November 30, 2008, from the New York Times Web site: http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/symptoms/female-sexual-dysfunction/overview.html.