Psychosexual Disorders

Sexual problems can originate from physiological causes or psychological causes or a combination of both. Psychosexual disorders are defined as the sexual problems that are psychological in origin and occur in absence of any pathological disease. They often arise because of physical, environmental, or psychological factors, and at times it is difficult to separate one from the other. Psychosexual disorders can vary in severity and intensity, some will be temporary, while others can last for a long time. 

Up to 54% of women and 35% of men may experience sexual problems, and yet many can find these issues difficult to talk about. Suffering from a sexual disorder can have a very detrimental effect on relationships and on self-esteem, and become the source of anxiety, depression and stress, so it is important to seek treatment wherever possible. 

Causes

The causes of a psychosexual disorder can lie in feelings of guilt, stress, nervousness, fear, anxiety, or in previous emotional or physical trauma. Other factors responsible that can be based on psychosocial and cultural aspects include; ignorance, improper sex education, conflicts of values related to family or religion (for example, the attitude that sex is generally dirty or sinful).

Symptoms & Signs

There are three main categories of psychosexual disorders: sexual dysfunction, paraphilias and gender identity disorders.

  • Sexual dysfunction includes; lack or loss of sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, painful sex, lack of sexual enjoyment, sexual addiction and sexual aversion.
  • Paraphilias or Disorders of sexual preference, are unusual or abnormal sexual behavior or sexual attraction to unusual objects or activitym such as; fetishism, exhibitionism, sadism and masochism, amongst others. 
  • Gender identity disorders manifest as a variation between a person’s biological sexual identity and their own sense of sexual identity, causing difficulties in adjusting to a normal lifestyle and a desire to alter sexual orientation by becoming a member of the opposite sex. 

Treatments

Talking honestly to the doctor is a key part to identify the problem correctly. Talking to the patient’s spouse can also play a key role in these discussions. Once the nature and characteristics of the problem have been identified, a personalized treatment plan for the patient can be agreed upon. This may include medications and psychotherapy. 

Sex therapy is a form of counseling intended to help individuals and couples resolve sexual difficulties, such as performance anxiety or relationship problems. Sex therapists are trained physicians with advanced degrees who specialize in dealing with problems related to sexuality and relationships. They provide counseling and therapy to individuals and/or couples who need help with the emotional and psychological aspects of a sexual relationship. People see sex therapists for a variety of reasons, such as: 

  • Sexual education and counseling 
  • Past sexual abuse 
  • Anxiety about gender identity
  • Compulsive sexual behaviors 
  • Decreased sexual desire
  • Difficulties reaching orgasm 
  • Erectile dysfunction in men
  • Premature ejaculation or Delayed ejaculation 
  • Performance dread 
  • Intimacy pains 
  • Vaginismus

One of the best ways to find a sex therapist is through asking your doctor, but it's a good idea to get a full physical examination first. Some sexual problems are related to underlying medical conditions. For example, many men with diabetes or heart disease have erectile dysfunction. Women may experience poor hydration after menopause. Treating these conditions may relieve the problem. However, if the doctor suspects that there are psychological causes, or other reasons related to the lack of sexual skills, a referral can be made to sex therapy. 

You may need to talk to a few therapists before you find the right therapist for you. be patient. In the long run, it is worth the time. Sex therapists can also be found through professional organizations, which usually provide the names of licensed professionals with appropriate credentials. It is important that you feel comfortable during your professional relationship with your sex therapist in order to successfully pass your treatment journey.