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Women
sexual problems can have a ripple effect on many other areas
of our lives including intimate relationships with a partner, the
family, and work, and our general well being. At the same time all
of our life interactions and activities can affect our sexuality.
There are a variety of sexual problems that women experience, either
alone or with a partner. The term "sex" is not limited just to intercourse,
and can also refer to a variety of intimate sexual activities such
as fondling, self-stimulation (masturbation), and oral sex.
Sexual
problems can be influenced by a wide variety of factors. There are
two main components-biological and psychological-and usually they
interact. Biological problems usually involve such things as hormonal
imbalances, infections (like yeast infections), or diseases (like
diabetes or multiple sclerosis) that have potential side effects
like pain during sex or excessive dryness. There are certain times
in a woman's life when she is more prone to sexual problems because
of hormonal changes. For example, some women experience a range
of sexual responses right after childbirth and during menopause.
Also, some commonly prescribed medications, like certain antidepressants,
can lead to sexual side effects.
From
birth throughout her life every women sexual story is influenced
by culture, gender, family of origin, and personal experiences.
The story takes on the beliefs and meanings that she attributes
to women sexuality. Couples must negotiate their personal sexual
stories as they develop their own style of sexual communication
and activity. This should be an ongoing process, since everyday
life problems may get in the way of intimacy and sexuality. Job
worries, pressures of juggling work and family, substance abuse,
depression, and financial worries can all influence how you feel
sexually In our fast paced world, having a lot on your mind, as
most people do, can get in the way even when you want to focus on
being intimate. on being intimate.
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