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DESCRIPTION
Female sexual dysfunction may involve an inability to experience sexual pleasure (arousal dysfunction); or an inability to achieve orgasm (orgasmic dysfunction).
Frigidity is the inability of a woman to experience pleasure from sexual intercourse. Frigidity is usually of psychological origin, stemming from fear, guilt, depression, conflict with one's mate, and/or feelings of inferiority. Unpleasant childhood and adolescent experiences are often factors.
For some women, however, frigidity may be a result of physiological factors. Some women find intercourse painful due to insufficient lubrication, inadequate stimulation, underlying illness or infection, or some other physical cause. The pain causes them to fear and shrink from sexual contact. Vitamin deficiency can cause a deficiency in estrogen levels and result in improper lubrication. See the supplemental program below for help and more information.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Lack of sexual desire.
Inability to enjoy sex.
Lack of vaginal lubrication.
Failure to achieve orgasm, even when sexually aroused.
CAUSES
Guilt or shame feelings about sex.
Cultural or religious conflicts about sex and enjoyment.
A poor relationship with the sexual partner.
Fear of pregnancy or if pregnant, the fear of hurting the baby.
Psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, stress, and psychosis.
Lack of experience and sexual information, including an understanding of the emotional aspects of sexuality and information about male and female anatomy and physiology on the part of either partner.
Repressed anger toward sexual partner that may result from feelings of being used as a sexual object, physical or emotional abuse, jealousy, or fears of disloyalty or lack of intimacy.
Inadequate or ineffective foreplay.
Disorders of the central nervous system, such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis.
Acute illness or chronic illness, endocrine disorders that involve the pituitary, thyroid, or adrenal glands, including hypothyroidism.
Alcoholism.
Drug Abuse, especially of marijuana, cocaine, narcotics, tranquilizers, sedatives, hypnotics and hallucinogens.
Gynecological factors (infection or other disorders).
Proximity of other people in the home (such as children, a mother-in-law).
RISK INCREASES WITH
Problems listed in causes.
Use of some medications, such as MAO Inhibitors, antidepressants, beta-adrenergic blockers.
Couple discrepancies in expectations and attitudes towards sex.
Proximity of other people in the home.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Maintain good communications with your partner. Don't be hesitant about discussing the problem, exploring your needs and asking for help. Your partner's understanding is critical to solving the problem.
Seek counseling to resolve feelings about past sexual trauma or abuse.
Don't drink more than 1 or 2 alcoholic drinks, if any, a day. Don't use other drugs that can be abused. If pregnant, don't use either alcohol or drugs.
Maintain overall good health.
If any new medication you take changes your sexual function, talk to your health care provider or midwife.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Best predictors of positive outcome are the desire to change and an overall healthy relationship. Arousal dysfunction is more difficult to treat and outcome may vary. Admit the problem and try to establish open communication with your partner. Pretending that you are aroused or have orgasm leaves the problem unsolved.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Depression and loss of self-esteem. Permanent inability to enjoy sex.
Marital problems or breakdown of close personal relationships.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Diagnostic tests may include laboratory blood studies and other studies to rule out physical causes of arousal or orgasmic dysfunction.
If no physical problems are found, a detailed sexual history is the most important tool for determining an appropriate treatment program.
Possible treatment methods:
- For childhood sexual abuse problems - psychotherapy or counseling.
- For arousal dysfunction - relaxation techniques, sensate-focus exercises, counseling (usually with a sex therapist).
- For orgasmic problems - self stimulation, new behavior patterns, and sexual homework with partner (usually in conjunction with treatment from a sex therapist).
- For medication-caused problems - change in dosage, discontinuance, or a change to a different medication.
- Other problems - family therapy, sensate conditioning, referral to a specialized sex therapist.
MEDICATION
Medication is not necessary unless the sexual problem is due to some underlying medical condition. There is no known aphrodisiac that is effective and safe.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions. Exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve your self-image. A healthy body and mind make enjoyable sex more likely.
DIET & NUTRITION
Eat a well balanced diet and take vitamin and mineral supplements, if needed. If overweight and self-esteem is a problem, then a weight loss diet may be followed, unless pregnant. If pregnant, then a well balanced pregnancy diet needs to be followed.
HERBS
Damiana is the "woman's sexuality herb." It contains alkaloids that directly stimulate the nerves and organs and have a testosterone like effect. Damiana is excellent for supporting the sexual organs and enhancing sexual pleasure. For best results, place a dropperful of damiana extract under your tongue an hour or two before sexual activity. It may take several days for the difference to become apparent.
Wild Yam contains a natural steroid called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) that rejuvenates and gives vigor to lovemaking. Take it for two weeks, then stop for two weeks, and so on.
Other herbs that are good for promoting energy and sexuality include fo-ti, gotu kola, sarsaparilla, saw palmetto, and Siberian ginseng. Caution: Do not use Siberian ginseng if you have hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, or a heart disorder.
Note: Natural, organic, herbal remedies are available in bulk form from Mountain Rose Herbs or in supplement form from HerbalRemedies.com. See links below to find these suppliers.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important Damiana A dropperful of extract under your tongue an hour or two before sexual activity. See under Herbs, above. It may take several days for the difference to become apparent. Damiana is excellent for supporting the sexual organs and enhancing sexual pleasure. Damiana Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Kelp 2,000-2,500 mg daily. A good source of iodine and other important minerals. Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, 100 Caps, Certified 650 mg, Kelp Seaweed (Norwegian) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Kelp Seaweed Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural Acophyllum nodosum, 550 mg, 250 Caps Vitamin B complex 100 mg twice daily. Calms the nervous system and aids in reducing anxiety. Vitamin B, 100 Complex, w/ coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 100 Caps. Vitamin E Start with 200-400 IU daily and increases slowly to 1,600 IU daily. Necessary for the functioning of the reproductive system and glands. Vitamin E, d-alpha Tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels, Vitamin E, Mixed Tocopherols, Unesterified, 400 IU, NOW Foods, 250 Softgels Helpful Fish liver oil As directed on label. Take with meals. Supplies vitamins A and D. Barleans Fishery's Oil, Fresh Catch Lemonade Flavor Cod Liver Oil, 8 fl. oz., Cod Liver Oil, Great Tasting Strawberry Flavor, 8 fl. oz. Lecithin granules
Or
capsules1 tablespoon 3 times daily, with meals.
2,400 mg 3 times daily, with meals.Contains essential fatty acids and aids in proper nerve function. Lecithin Fine Vegetarian Granules, NOW Foods, 97% Phosphatides, Pure and Fresh, 1 lb, Lecithin Vegetarian Granules, NOW Foods, 97% Phosphatides, Identity Preserved Non-GE, 1 lb., Lecithin Nature's Way, 100 Softgels, 1200 mg L-Phenylalanine
And
L-Tyrosine500 mg each daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Amino acids needed for synthesis of crucial neurotransmitters involved in mood and nervous system function. Caution: Do not take phenylalanine if you are pregnant or nursing a baby, or if you suffer from panic attacks, diabetes, high blood pressure, or PKU. Do not take tyrosine if you are taking an MAO inhibitor drug. L-Phenylalanine, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 60 Caps, L-Tyrosine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 120 Caps Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) 100 mg daily. A B vitamin that stimulates vital life functions. PABA - Para-aminobenzoic Acid, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps Vitamin C with bioflavonoids 3,000-6,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Important in glandular function and stress response. Vitamin C 500 With Bioflavonoids, 100% Natural, 500 mg, 250 Caps Zinc 50-80 IU daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Zinc deficiency can result in impaired sexual function. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption. Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps, Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, SilvaSolution, 90 Lozenges, Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
Ascend for Women, Female Orgasm Enhancement, 60 Caps
Helps with low sex drive, sexual dysfunction and other female sexual disorders such as vaginal dryness and symptoms of menopause. Increases sex drive, enhances performance, orgasms will be harder and last longer, no side effects, no drugs, all natural for women of all ages.Intimate Infusions, All Natural Personal Lubricant, Water-Based, Cinnamon Vanilla Flavor, 4 fl. oz.
Discover how delicious healing lubrication can be with the first all-natural line of water-based personal lubricants that smell as good as they feel! All natural ingredients guarantee a naturally smooth glide that lasts and leaves no sticky residue. Intimate Infusions is good for your skin and dries without a trace, so go ahead and cuddle a little longer. Our all natural formulas contain no synthetic ingredients and are ph neutral, latex safe and good for you.Eros Rx Ultra Sex Drive Enhancer, 60 Tabs
Formulated to enhance nutritional support for the male and female sex drive. Eros Rx is the most complete sex drive formula on the market. Key ingredients include Arginine, Muira Puama, Yohimbe Extract, Taurine, Tunera Aphrodisiaca, Deer Antler, Saw Palmetto and other nutrients essential for the promotion of good sexual health.Egyptian Blue Lotus Tincture Herbal Aphrodisiac, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
It is Blue Lotus which is used in ancient Egypt as a key to good health, sex and re-birth. Egyptian Blue Lotus is an herbal aphrodisiac for both men and women as well as a general remedy for all illness. It enhances sexual vigor and general good health. A tonic like ginseng, pain reliever like arnica, circulation stimulant like ginkgo biloba, and sex stimulant like Viagra. Egyptian Blue Lotus creates a feeling of well being, euphoria and ecstasy. Blue Lotus is a free radical scavenger and antioxidant. Blue Lotus would have been used for age related diseases and would be useful in mild Alzheimer's, migraine headaches, tinnitus, various conditions involving blood flow and circulation, having a sexual stimulant Viagra effect on both men and women and is a better natural herbal form of Viagra.Female Joy Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
A brand new herbal tea formulated to increase female sexual response and sensitivity. Female Joy Herbal Tea contains 8 different herbs: Pyrola, Broomrape, Siberian Ginseng, Motherwort, Morinda (Noni), Golden Eye Grass, Green Tea and Jasmine Flowers. Chinese medicine use: this blend as female sexual enhancers, promoting secretion of female hormones and increasing sexual response and sensitivity.Very Private Intimate Moisture, 2 fl. oz. (FDA Safety Tested)
Very Private Intimate Moisture is physician tested and approved. Formulated according to FDA protocols. PH balanced, hypo-allergenic, free of chemical colors, fragrance, plant additives and hormones. Relieves vaginal dryness instantly, protects tissue and enhances intimacy. "Buy it for the problem, use it for the pleasure." The first daily intimate moisturizer created specifically to counteract dryness in the intimate area.Horny Goat Weed w/ Maca, 808 mg, 60 Caps, Standardized Formula for Men & Women
Horny Goat Weed could provide a serious boost to those who need it as an all herbal aphrodisiac. Each safe, highly potent capsule contains a unique and powerful complex of herbs formulated to support libido and sexual activity through a variety of mechanisms. These herbs include Horny Goat Weed, Maca Extract, Macuna Extract, and Polypodium vulgare, which in combination, can help support better performance. Horny Goat Weed is a traditional botanical medicine used in China and Japan. Although this herb (which also goes by the names Yin Yang Huo, Inyokaku, and Herba Epimedii) has a history of traditional use for disorders of the kidneys, joints, liver, back and knees, its principle use is as an herbal aphrodisiac. According to one herbal author, Horny Goat Weed has testosterone-like effects. It stimulates sexual activity in both men and women, increases sperm production, stimulates the sensory nerves, and increases sexual desire.Thyroid-Pituitary Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
The Thyroid Pituitary Formula helps restore balance for both the underactive and overactive thyroid. Two main thyroid disorders: Hyperthyroid and Hypothyroid. The thyroid hormones regulate (1) metabolism, (2) growth and development,(3) the activity of the nervous system. Goiter is a third disorder.St. John's Wort, Perika, 300 mg, 60 Tabs
Nature's Way St. John's Wort is scientifically advanced to maintain a healthy emotional outlook.
- Hyperforin-Rich, Patented Extract
- Clinically Proven HyperSure System Stabilized Actives.
- Outperforms Other St. John's Wort
- Hyperforin: The Proven "Mood Enhancing" Active in St. John's Wort
New clinical research reveals hyperforin-rich Perika to be more effective in promoting a positive mood than low hyperforin St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum). In fact, 15% more users reported "much or very much improved" emotional status by using Perika in comparison to other St. John's Wort.*
* G. Laakmann, C. Schule, T. Baghai, M. Kieser, Pharmacopsychiatry: Supplement Volume 31:54-59, June 1998 Caution: If using a prescription antidepressant, MAO-inhibitors, SSRI's, consult a physician before taking this product. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, since skin may become photosensitive. Not recommended for use by pregnant or lactating women. Keep out of reach of children.Perfect Female RX, 60 Caps
Perfect Female Rx is the doctor recommended female herbal supplement to increase not only the female sex drive and libido but also supports the mood, normal hormonal balance and sexual health. Perfect Female contains a synergistic blend of the following female specific herbs and amino acids to provide the unique support needed for the female sex libido and overall female sexual health.Irwin Naturals Steel Libido for Women, Sexual Enhancer, 75 Gelcaps
This Bioperine enhanced Irwin Naturals Steel Libido for Women is the only product on the market to work in two ways. First, it enhances sexual desire or libido. And second, it enhances the intensity of the female orgasm. This powerful one-two punch to your sexual enjoyment is created by a delicately balanced synergy of 14 powerful clinically researched ingredients.Sensual Lubricant, TCM Formula, Guijiao Wenrun, (Female Sexual Lubricant), 1 fl. oz.
The Sensual Lubricant - TCM Formula female sexual lubricant can activate blood circulation, remove frigidity and increase sexual desire. Chinese medicine uses its bacteria and fungus inhibiting, anti-inflammation, stimulating and analgesic properties for its female sexual lubricant, to activate blood circulation, remove frigidity and increase sexual desire and eliminate itching for woman, and help maintain regularity of gynecological cycles.Stamina Rx Sexual Stimulant for Women, Pharmaceutical Grade, 550 mg, 30 Tabs
It's useless to consider sexual health without acknowledging the powerful connection between the mind and the body. To fully enjoy the sexual experience, for a woman, it's necessary to feel a strong emotional and psychological connection (if not with the partner then at least with the encounter itself). Stamina-Rx for Women stimulates the release of powerful neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) that energize the hypothalamus (the body's "sex center") to dramatically increase sexual desire and arousal.Female Regularity, Shenrong Dingkun, 60 Caps
Female Regularity, Shenrong Dingkun is made of ginseng, deer horn, carthamus, millettia, notoginseng, common peony root, prepared rehmannia root, Chinese angelica root, atractylodes, wolfberry, scute, cyperus, mother wort, cnidium, de-glued antler powder, donkey hide glue and corydalis. Chinese medicine uses this time-honored formula to tonify the Qi and blood, activate female hormone, maintain healthy uterus smooth muscle tension, promotes gynecological regularity and postpartum recovery. It is also an analgesic.V.I.P. For Female Enhancement, Natural Non-Prescription, 30 Tabs
VIP for Women is a sensual blend of nutrients developed after listening to our customers desires for a product that worked just as good as the popular prescription medication, and Viagra for men. And all-natural, of course! This extraordinary product was developed to help regulate hormone levels, stimulate sex drive, enhance female libido, and increase circulation in the right places. VIP is an all natural libido enhancer.
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RECOMMENDATIONS
Make sure to include the following in your diet: alfalfa sprouts; avocados; eggs that come fresh from hens (not those stored cold in the supermarket); olive oil; pumpkin seeds and other seeds and nuts; soy and sesame oil; and wheat.
Try taking supplemental bee pollen to increase energy. Caution: Bee pollen may cause an allergic reaction in some people. Start with a small amount at first, and discontinue use if rash, wheezing, discomfort, or other symptoms occurs. Bee Pollen Blend, Nature's Way, 580 mg, 180 Caps, Bee Pollen Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Bee Pollen Granules, Fresh American Bee Pollen, 16 oz.
Avoid poultry, red meat, and sugar products.
Avoid smoggy conditions. Smog is highly toxic and dangerous; it adversely affects immune function and hormonal activity, as well as a host of other body functions.
CONSIDERATIONS
There are medical alternatives that can help some women by alleviating painful intercourse. Painful intercourse may also be a sign of certain gynecological diseases.
If frigidity is due to interpersonal conflict or psychological causes, help from a couples counselor or other health care professional is advised.
Hypothyroidism or depression may be the underlying problem. See Hypothyroidism and Depression for more information.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You have sexual problems and you want help in resolving them. If your health care provider or midwife cannot treat the problems, they can often refer you to someone who does.
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