Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder: Pathways to Rediscovering Pleasure

Understanding Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder: Pathways to Rediscovering Pleasure

Experiencing changes in your sexual response or difficulty reaching orgasm can be frustrating and confusing. If you’ve previously been able to orgasm but are now struggling, you might be dealing with secondary female orgasmic disorder. This condition is more common than many people realize, and the good news is that there are effective ways to address it. In this blog, we’ll explore what secondary orgasmic disorder is, potential causes, and some therapeutic approaches that can help.

What is Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder?

Secondary female orgasmic disorder occurs when a woman who once had the ability to reach orgasm consistently now finds it difficult or impossible to do so. Unlike primary orgasmic disorder, where a woman has never experienced an orgasm, secondary disorder can develop at any stage of life. This change can be due to various factors, including:

• Physical Changes: Hormonal shifts, certain medications, or conditions like pelvic surgery or childbirth can impact sexual response.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or past traumas can interfere with sexual satisfaction.
• Lifestyle Influences: Fatigue, lack of privacy, or a busy lifestyle can diminish sexual desire and response.

Understanding the root cause is crucial in finding the right approach to restore pleasurable sexual experiences.

Approaches to Managing Secondary Orgasmic Disorder

There are several methods to explore that can help you reconnect with your sexual pleasure. Below are some effective strategies:

1. Directed Masturbation

Directed masturbation is a therapeutic approach where you explore your own body to discover what types of touch and stimulation bring you the most pleasure. It encourages self-exploration without pressure, helping you become more familiar with your sexual response and enhancing your ability to communicate your needs to a partner. Techniques can include:

• Using lubricants to reduce friction and increase comfort.
• Experimenting with different types of touch, such as varying pressure, speed, and areas of focus.
• Incorporating visual or auditory aids, like erotic literature or videos, to enhance arousal.

2. Sensate Focus Exercises

Sensate focus is a series of exercises often used in sex therapy that aim to reduce performance anxiety and shift the focus back to physical sensations and intimacy. This technique involves:

• Starting with non-sexual touching between partners, such as gentle caressing or massaging, to build comfort and connection.
• Gradually progressing to more intimate touch as comfort levels increase, allowing both partners to express what feels good without the pressure of achieving orgasm.
• Encouraging open communication about likes, dislikes, and boundaries, which can deepen emotional and physical intimacy.

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can enhance sexual sensation and orgasm. Pelvic floor exercises, often referred to as Kegels, involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Regular practice can:

• Improve blood flow to the pelvic area, enhancing sensitivity and arousal.
• Increase muscle control, which can intensify orgasms.
• Help with other concerns like bladder control, contributing to overall pelvic health.

4. Stimulatory Devices

Sometimes, external aids like vibrators or other stimulatory devices can be useful tools for regaining orgasmic function. These devices can:

• Provide consistent and targeted stimulation that may be difficult to achieve manually.
• Help you discover new areas of pleasure or different ways to enjoy sexual activity.
• Serve as a bridge to achieving orgasm with a partner, allowing you to demonstrate the type of stimulation that works best for you.

Additional Support

Addressing secondary female orgasmic disorder can be a sensitive journey, and it’s important to approach it with patience and self-compassion. Working with a healthcare provider who understands your unique needs can make a significant difference. Other options to consider include:

• Counseling or Sex Therapy: A trained therapist can help you explore any emotional or psychological barriers to orgasm and guide you through strategies tailored to your needs.
• Medical Evaluation: Sometimes, medical conditions or medications may impact orgasm. Discussing these with your doctor can help identify if adjustments or treatments are necessary.

Takeaway

Secondary female orgasmic disorder is a common and treatable condition. By exploring various therapeutic approaches, such as directed masturbation, sensate focus exercises, pelvic floor strengthening, and stimulatory devices, you can regain confidence and pleasure in your sexual experiences. Remember, this journey is personal, and what works for one person may differ for another. The key is to stay open, communicate with your partner, and seek professional guidance when needed.

 

If you have any questions or concerns about female orgasmic disorder or wish to schedule a consultation, please give us a call on 07 3219 6868.

 

-Dr Sharon Xian Li (MED0001402739)

Registered Medical Practitioner, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists