Orgasmic Problems

Anorgasmia is the absence of an orgasm during sexual intercourse. It usually refers to a dysfunction that prevents a person from reaching climax even with manual stimulation.

What Causes Anorgasmia?

Approximately 90% of anorgasmia cases involve psychological problems. Some men can reach orgasm while masturbating or through prolonged foreplay, but not during intercourse. This would indicate that the dysfunction is a psychological issue and not a physical problem. Stress affects a person's sex life and may contribute to anorgasmia. Performance anxiety is another factor as is relationship issues, sexual boredom and fear of intimacy. In such cases where psychological issues appear to be the cause, good communication and a genuine effort put forth by both partners may be the best way to combat the triggers that are causing the problem.

However, some cases of anorgasmia are more difficult to treat. Sometimes anorgasmia can be traced to a person's upbringing in which they were taught negative attitudes towards sex. There could also be a history of rape, child abuse or adult sexual abuse. All of these traumatic events can instill a fear of losing control or of deserving to enjoy sex.

Anorgasmia is not necessarily a physical problem, as in a congenital defect. But it can be brought on by trauma, both mental and physical. The abuse of alcohol, prescription and illegal drugs can diminish orgasmic response. Chronic sickness and pain can also affect sexuality. Other problems that can cause the condition include spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, hormone problems and diabetes.

There are treatments available for anorgasmia, and most of them would not involve medicine or surgery. However, if the condition raises concern, a doctor's examination might be appropriate so that any physical problems can be investigated first.

The Most Effective Treatment

Sex therapy is the most effective treatment for anorgasmia. This dysfunction is likely a sexual problem, not a medical condition. A sex professional can work with an individual and provide the educational treatment needed to overcome the sexual block. Marriage and relationship counseling might also prove to be an effective treatment.

For most cases that involve the inability to have an orgasm a sex therapist would be the most qualified to provide treatment. The inability to have an orgasm could simply be traced to a lack of education about the sex organs and how to safely produce sexual response. Sex therapy can teach patients how to relax, how to feel comfortable with their bodies, and best of all, how to enjoy sex to its fullest.

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tova@sextherapylosangeles.com