Reproductive System & Sexual Disorders: Current Research
Open Access

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem that occurs during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual or partner from experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity. The sexual response cycle traditionally includes arousal, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Sexual dysfunction can have causes that are not due to an underlying disease. Examples include stress, drug use, alcohol use, tobacco use, cycling, or relationship factors. Men and women of all ages experience sexual dysfunction, although the chances increase as you get older. Stress is a common cause of sexual dysfunction. Other causes include: sexual trauma, psychological problems, diabetes, heart disease or other medical conditions, drug use, alcohol use, certain medications.