The key hormones that play a role in sexual wellness include testosterone and estrogen. They must be present and in the right ratio. Testosterone inside the brain gives the feeling of “everything is well” and calms the brain. Testosterone also makes the clitoris and nipples sensitive and contributes to sexual arousal. Estrogen is responsible for vaginal lubrication and the fullness of tissue. Another hormone that can contribute to being able to relax and produce vaginal lubrication is oxytocin. Oxytocin can be prescribed as a sublingual lozenge that can be taken at the time of sexual activity.
The strength of the pelvic floor muscles and the health of the female genitalia also play a role in the ability to enjoy stimuli and have orgasms. Female sexual health is complex and delicate. Women may experience these sexual issues:
- Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (low desire): The cause of this condition is the abnormally low libido.
- Female Sexual Arousal Disorder: This issue and Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder typically go together. With this condition women have trouble becoming aroused.
- Female Orgasmic Disorder: Women who suffer this condition can have sex comfortably, but have trouble achieving orgasm.
- Dyspareunia (painful sex): this condition can cause intercourse to be a painful and frustrating ordeal.
