Female Anorgasmia (inability To Reach Orgasm): Causes And Treatment
Within the studies that have been done in the field of sexuality, much has been said about the sexual dysfunctions , its origins and its diagnosis. In this writing I would like to make a contribution about one of the most common sexual dysfunctions: female anorgasmia its causes and possible treatments.
Defining it a little further, we could say that female anorgasmia is the inability or difficulty experienced by the woman in achieving orgasm Or, as Lopiccolo (1990) explains, we can also define female anorgasmia as “the persistent difficulty or inability to obtain orgasms given adequate stimulation and a normal arousal phase.”
One fact that we must keep in mind is that there are stages in which women feel the absence of orgasm for small periods. These periods can occur after an important event, such as after the woman has left the stage of labor and some physical damage has been detected; when marital relations are in crisis or when family problems arise, etc. If all these events are not managed properly, they can lead to an absence of orgasm and the fact that not being able to fully enjoy sexuality
Female anorgasmia is relatively common: types of anorgasmia
It is estimated that 7% to 30% of women suffer from this type of disorder in its three categories (although some groups of scientists distinguish up to five categories). These different types of anorgasmia are:
Specialists in Medicine, Sexual Health and Psychology agree that female anorgasmia has two possible origins or causes:
Organic factors of female anorgasmia
That is, those that have to do with alcohol consumption, drug abuse, organic problems (such as Rokitanksy Syndrome, hormonal problems or disorders in the endocrine system. We could say that these are general health problems.
Psychological factors of female anorgasmia
These factors refer to what is linked to traumatic experiences, sexual abuse (in childhood or adolescence), rigid sexual education, self-esteem, etc.
The importance of culture
It is known that only 6 or 7% of female anorgasmia has a organic cause In the rest of the cases, the cause is psychological (93% to 94%), and through consultation and psychological interview its origin can be known.
We cannot forget the cultural factors and social factors that influence the appearance of female anorgasmia. Not so long ago, it was believed that only the woman should satisfy her partner, denying that the woman could have interest or sexual desire This cultural heritage has not yet completely faded away in the West, and that can be a source of problems. Furthermore, shame, ignorance of the subject and taboos have meant that many women of the past and today continue to suffer this problem in silence, without seeking efficient professional help to cure it.
Today, in certain parts of the planet a deeply sexist system continues to be maintained where this idea that women are the property of men and have to satisfy them very negatively affects the lives of many people. In certain countries, both African and Middle Eastern, clitoridectomy (removal or ablation of the clitoris) is carried out for cultural or religious reasons, which is nothing more than an aggravated symptom of the cultural roots that affect many women in many places in the world (also in rich countries).
Partly, These are the causes that cause many women to inhibit their ability to reach orgasm during sexual intercourse which can translate into a picture of female anorgasmia.
Diagnosis
For a good diagnosis it is necessary go to a professional of mental health specialized in these disorders. Specialists affirm that 80% of women who come to consultations resolve their anorgasmia problem. During consultations, it is necessary to investigate the personal history of the person experiencing female anorgasmia, and obviously also investigate what their sexual experiences have been or were like throughout their life.
Treatment
Cognitive-behavioral therapies appear effective. There are few specialists who recommend a Pharmacotherapy and they do so as long as there is organic damage that requires the use of a drug.
The role of the couple is also very important, since the Emotional Support commitment and collaboration can increase the chances of treatment success, they have a very important role in sexual relationships.
Rodes, Piqué and Trilla (2007) detail a table of sexual skills that most professionals recommend as homework tasks. These recommendations are:
