Female sexual dysfunction: types, causes and treatment options

In this article

1. The four main types
2. Common causes
3. When is it a “dysfunction”?
4. How women get help
5. Myths and facts
6. A quick self-check
7. When to get help

Many women live for years with sexual difficulties because they assume it is “normal”, or feel too shy to ask. Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is common, real and treatable.

The four main types

1. Low desire (low libido)

Little or no interest in sex, causing distress. See low libido in women.

2. Arousal difficulties

Wanting intimacy but finding it hard to become or stay aroused, physically or mentally. Read difficulty getting aroused.

3. Orgasm difficulties

Delayed, infrequent or absent orgasm despite enough stimulation. See why can’t I orgasm.

4. Pain during sex

Including dyspareunia and vaginismus, where penetration is painful or difficult.

These often overlap: pain can reduce desire, and low arousal can cause discomfort.

Common causes

• Psychological: stress, anxiety, low mood, body-image worries, sexual shame
• Relationship: conflict, poor communication, mismatched desire
• Hormonal: pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, perimenopause and menopause, PCOS, thyroid issues
• Medical: diabetes, pelvic conditions, infections, some medicines
• Experiences: painful first experiences, trauma, strict upbringing about sex

When is it a “dysfunction”?

Only when the difficulty is persistent (usually several months) and causes you distress. Lower interest that does not bother you is not a disorder.

How women get help

1. Medical check with a gynaecologist to rule out physical causes.
2. Sex therapy to address anxiety, beliefs, body awareness and pleasure.
3. Couples work to improve communication and reduce pressure.
4. Pelvic floor therapy for pain or tightness.
5. Lifestyle support for stress, sleep and health.

Myths and facts

• Myth: Women’s sexual problems are ‘all in the mind’. Fact: Physical, hormonal, emotional and relationship factors all play a part.
• Myth: Pain is a normal part of sex for women. Fact: Pain is a signal to be checked and treated, not endured.
• Myth: Low desire after marriage or children is permanent. Fact: Desire often returns when causes are addressed.
• Myth: Talking about it is embarrassing for doctors. Fact: Professionals discuss these concerns every day, without judgement.

A quick self-check

• Which area is hardest for me: desire, arousal, orgasm or pain?
• How long has it been happening?
• Does it bother me, or mainly my partner?
• Have there been recent changes in health, hormones or medicines?
• Do I feel safe and comfortable with my partner?

Knowing which area is affected helps your expert choose the right approach.

When to get help

If any of these difficulties is affecting your wellbeing or relationship, our free confidential assessment is a private first step. You can request a female expert.

Frequently asked questions

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you have sudden symptoms, pain, bleeding or thoughts of self-harm, please contact a doctor or local emergency services.