As the name suggests, arousal disorders refer to conditions with no sexual arousal after any type of sexual stimulation in the body. It can be the lack of sexual desire or fantasy in situations where you should normally feel sexually aroused.
It is different from sexual desire disorder. For females, it is called “female sexual arousal disorder”, whereas erectile dysfunction is the term used for men facing these issues.
Another condition includes sexual arousal disorders characterized by a persistent or recurring lack of sexual desire or interest in sexual activity. Hormonal imbalances, relationship issues, or psychological factors, such as depression or anxiety, may cause it.
11½ million men in South Africa are affected by sexual arousal disorder symptoms. While the symptoms of sexual arousal disorders may differ depending on gender, and type of disorder, you experience the given symptoms if you have arousal disorder.
There is no single cause of sexual arousal disorders, as various physical, psychological, and environmental factors can cause them. Here are some possible causes of sexual arousal disorders:
Physical Causes: Diabetes, heart disease, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, or side effects of medications may contribute to sexual arousal disorders.
Psychological Causes: Depression, anxiety, and stress can interfere with sexual arousal. Previous negative sexual experiences, relationship problems, or low self-esteem can also affect sexual desires.
Environmental Causes: A lack of privacy, cultural or religious beliefs, and a negative or judgmental attitude toward sex can create anxiety and interfere with sexual arousal.
The likelihood of developing arousal disorder symptoms increases if you:
Diagnosis requires a thorough physical examination of men and women experiencing an arousal disorder. Typically psychologists or sex therapists conduct psychological or behavioural assessments to determine if any underlying mental health conditions may contribute to the disorder.
If not identified on time, these disorders can cause:
If a medical or mental health condition contributes to the sexual arousal disorder, treating that condition may help alleviate the disorder. Your doctor may prescribe medications such as Viagra or other phosphodiesterase inhibitors for erectile dysfunction. Hormone therapy may be recommended for women with low levels of oestrogen.
Therapy can effectively treat sexual arousal disorders caused by psychological factors, such as anxiety or depression. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is effective in addressing negative thoughts and behaviours that may interfere with sexual arousal.
Not all sexual arousal disorders can be prevented, but taking steps to maintain good overall physical and mental health can help reduce the risk of developing sexual arousal disorders. Additionally, seeking prompt medical attention for underlying medical or mental health conditions can help prevent sexual arousal disorders from developing or worsening.