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Sexual Problems in Women
One type of sexual problem in women is pain during intercourse. Pain often is caused by a physical reason, such as injury or anatomical problems. If examinations and tests confirm that a physical condition is causing pain during intercourse, treatment of that condition may get rid of the pain. In some cases, such as with the medical condition endometriosis, surgery may be recommended.
Surgery Choices
There is no surgical treatment for sexual problems unless pain is caused by endometriosis or another medical condition.
What To Think About
Certain surgical procedures may cause sexual problems. For example, it is common for a woman who has had her breast or breasts removed (mastectomy) or has had her uterus and ovaries removed (hysterectomy and oophorectomy) to report decreased sexual desire. Sexual therapy may be recommended after surgery to assist you and your partner in finding methods to stimulate sexual arousal and achieve sexual satisfaction.
There are advertised procedures, such as "vaginal rejuvenation" surgeries, that promise to increase sexual pleasure. But such surgeries may not provide any benefit. And they may cause harm. They also may be costly and painful. Talk with your doctor about treatment for a sexual problem. If he or she is not able to help you find answers, ask for a referral to a doctor who is a specialist in this area of medicine.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: March 10, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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