Sexuality plays important role in creating stable relationships and families. Amongst the multiple functions of sexuality the function of producing babies is the most important. Sexuality connects people biologically, psychologically and socially. If you have sexuality problems they can not only impair your sex life but also your mental health.

 What are sexual problems?

 Many of the sexual dysfunctions are of physical nature or “mechanical”. That is not to suggest that there are no psychological reasons for sexual disorders. Physical conditions responsible for sexual disorders include pregnancy, menopause, cancer, chronic illness amongst others. Your personal problems with your partner make a dent in your sexual relationship with him/her.

What is the impact of sexual disorders?

 Problems related with sex can lead to distress. If you are facing sexual problems you may suffer from related anxiety and frustration that can further cause insomnia and other associated illnesses coupled with adverse effect on your mental health. Apart from this, your relationship with your partner can suffer and the overall atmosphere in the family can be in disarray. There may arise, trust and commitment problems.

 Sexual disorders mar your sexual performance. They give rise to conflict and this further makes it difficult for you to either have sex or enjoy it.

  Different types of problems related with sex

 Given below is the brief overview of sexual problems that affect your mental health:

 Low sexual desire (Hypoactive sexual desire): You may have persistent reduced sexual urge or desire.

• Sexual aversion disorder: You avoid genital sexual contact and sexual situations with your partner. 
• Female sexual arousal disorder: A failure of arousal, lubrication and swell during sexual relations.
• Male erectile dysfunction (Impotence): You are persistently unable to achieve and maintain erection to complete the sexual activity satisfactorily.
• Premature ejaculation: You ejaculate more quickly than desired by your partner.
• Painful sex: As a female you feel pain during intercourse.
• Male orgasmic disorder: A lengthy delay or absence of organism.
• Female orgasmic disorder: You may have hard time achieving organism.

 What are the causes of sex related problems?

Sexual response that you seek from your partner depends upon physical and emotional reciprocity that you share with partner. Your physical and emotional incompatibility can contribute to the relationship difficulties. This process can be so complicated that sexual problems may occur. Your sexual differences with your partner are also responsible for your sexual troubles and poor state of your mental health.

Some of the other causes of sexual disorders may include: you may have been abused or may have had bad experience with sex; you may have learned negative feelings about sex in your childhood; you may have suffered a sexual trauma; you may be having problems in coping with your anger, depression, drug and alcohol abuse; you may be on medication; you may have an infection etc. 

 What can you do?

 Sexual problems are relatively common and they can cause distress, frustration and disharmony between the partners. Almost all couples have sex problems in their lives at some time or the other. If you are patient and feel concerned for your partner, many of these problems can be resolved. If you have a problem related with your health, you must see a doctor.

 If you feel any pain in pelvic, genital or vaginal area you must not overlook and immediately consult your doctor. Always have an open and frank talk with your partner. This will help clear up conflicts between the two of you and relieve you of stress and make your relationship strong.

 Have a free and fearless dialogue with your doctor who can refer you to other experts in case of requirement. You may go for sex counseling as an individual or jointly with your partner. The counseling succeeds in a big way in helping you feel relaxed and communicate better.

 The last word

 Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Stop smoking. Consume alcohol, if you have to, only in moderation. Regular exercises go a long way in leading a healthy sexual life. Have enough sleep. Sort out your relationship problems with your partner. These simple yet effective steps will go a long way in overcoming your sexual problems and getting your mental health in shape.

Understanding sexuality and sexuality problems is a post from: Mental Health