Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder: Pathways to Rediscovering Pleasure
For many women, the experience of sexual pleasure and orgasm can be an important aspect of overall wellbeing and intimacy. However, some may find themselves facing challenges when it comes to achieving orgasm, even if they’ve previously enjoyed a fulfilling sexual life. Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder (SFOD) refers to the inability to reach orgasm after having previously experienced it. This condition can impact a woman’s sense of sexual satisfaction, self-esteem, and emotional connection with a partner. Understanding the factors contributing to SFOD and exploring effective solutions can help women rediscover pleasure and improve their quality of life.
What is Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder?
Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder is distinct from primary orgasmic disorder, where a woman has never experienced an orgasm. With SFOD, women who have had orgasms in the past suddenly find it difficult or impossible to achieve them. This may occur gradually or following a particular event or period in life.
Causes of Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder
The causes of SFOD can be multifactorial, often involving a combination of physical, emotional, and relationship factors:
-
Physical Factors:
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menopause, pregnancy, or while breastfeeding, can affect libido and the ability to reach orgasm. Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy are common during this time, and treatments like local oestrogen therapy or vaginal rejuvenation can help alleviate these symptoms, improving comfort and sensitivity.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders can interfere with sexual response. Certain medications, especially antidepressants or those for high blood pressure, may also reduce sexual desire and orgasmic function.
- Pelvic Health Issues: Conditions like vaginal prolapse, vaginal atrophy, or pelvic organ prolapse can make it difficult for women to feel pleasure during sex. In such cases, vaginal prolapse surgery or vaginal repair may be considered to restore pelvic health, and treatments such as Morpheus8V or O-Shot can help improve vaginal tissue quality and enhance sensation.
-
Psychological and Emotional Factors:
- Stress and Anxiety: Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress can inhibit sexual pleasure and the ability to climax. Body image issues, past trauma, or unresolved emotional concerns may also play a role.
- Relationship Issues: Emotional disconnection from a partner, lack of intimacy, or unresolved conflicts can reduce sexual desire and satisfaction.
-
Lifestyle Factors:
- Fatigue and Busy Lifestyles: Juggling work, family, and other responsibilities can lead to exhaustion, which may dampen sexual interest and hinder orgasm.
- Sedentary Habits or Poor Diet: A lack of physical activity or poor nutrition can impact overall health, including sexual function.
Pathways to Rediscovering Pleasure
If you’re experiencing Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and there are several pathways to rediscovering pleasure:
-
Consult with a Specialist: Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional, like Dr. Sharon Li, can help pinpoint underlying causes of SFOD. A thorough assessment will help determine whether there are physical or hormonal imbalances, or if psychological or relationship factors are at play. Treatments such as vaginal tightening, vaginal repair, or the O-Shot (Naturalis PRP) may help improve sexual health and restore intimacy.
-
Hormonal Treatment: If hormonal changes are contributing to your symptoms, treatments such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or local treatments like vaginal oestrogen may be helpful. These can help improve lubrication and sensitivity, making orgasm more attainable.
-
Pelvic Health Support: For women experiencing pelvic health issues such as vaginal atrophy, vaginal dryness, or prolapse, treatments like vaginal rejuvenation, Morpheus8V, or pelvic floor rehabilitation may be beneficial in improving sexual function. These treatments focus on strengthening and restoring pelvic tissues, increasing sensitivity and enhancing the sexual experience.
-
Counselling and Psychological Support: For emotional or psychological factors, speaking to a psychologist or counsellor can help address any underlying concerns, such as anxiety, depression, or body image issues. Techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or sex therapy may also be effective in overcoming mental barriers to orgasm.
-
Open Communication with Your Partner: It’s essential to address any emotional or relational barriers with your partner. Open, honest communication about needs, desires, and concerns can improve intimacy and sexual satisfaction.
-
Self-Exploration: Rediscovering pleasure may involve reconnecting with your body. Exploring what feels good through solo play or mindful practices can help you better understand your sexual needs, making it easier to achieve orgasm during partnered sex.
A Holistic Approach to Sexual Health
Rediscovering sexual pleasure involves treating the whole person, not just focusing on the absence of orgasm. Addressing physical, emotional, and relational health holistically will improve overall sexual satisfaction and wellbeing. Dr. Sharon Li’s approach to women’s health takes into account all these factors, helping you to feel empowered, confident, and more connected to your own body and your partner.
Conclusion
Secondary Female Orgasmic Disorder is a complex condition, but with the right guidance, women can find ways to overcome it and reconnect with their pleasure. Whether through medical treatments, emotional support, or physical therapy, there are various paths to take. If you are struggling with orgasm or any other sexual health concerns, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Sharon Li for a consultation.
Please call 07 3219 6868 for an appointment, visit sharonli.com.au, we would love to help you.