Sexual problems prevent the couple from enjoying satisfaction and intimacy in the relationship. It might be surprising, but sexual dysfunction exceeds that in men. 43% of women and only 31% of men face sexual dysfunctions.
But what are the reasons for sexual dysfunctions? And how can Ayurveda help in your intimate life?
Read further to find the answers.
What is Sexual Dysfunction?
Any hindrance in the sexual response cycle leads to dissatisfaction during sexual intercourse. The sexual response cycle involves- excitement, orgasm, and resolution.
Excitement births desire and arousal. Any curb in the initial stage leads to restricted desire.
Reasons for Sexual Dysfunction in Women
Sexual dysfunction in women is known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). There are several possible reasons for the same.
- Low Libido
Low levels of sexual desire slow down the production of estrogen. Thus, low libido levels.
It might occur due to anxiety, fatigue, or depression.
- Vaginal Dryness
The vaginal discharge during arousal makes sexual intercourse easy and pain-free.
However, hormonal changes due to menopause or pregnancy cause vaginal dryness. This further causes pain during intercourse.
An uncomfortable environment might lead to fear of sexual intercourse and thus no excitement for the individual.
- Medications
Medications for depression and high blood pressure mess with the hormonal balance. They harm the sexual hormones in both men and women.
Some of the antidepressants include:
- Zoloft
- Paxil
- Elavil
- Sinequan
- Navane
- Haldol
The high blood pressure medications that might have an adverse effect:
- Aldactone
- Aldomet
- Minipress
- Inderal
Some contraceptives like pills or implants imbalance the hormone level. Women often experience fatigue and frequent vomiting.
Reasons for Sexual Dysfunction in Men
Men experience sexual dysfunction in maintaining an erection and during ejaculation. Like women, men also experience low libido levels.
- Premature Ejaculation- When the ejaculation is too soon during sexual intercourse.
Reasons for premature ejaculation:
Stress
Anxiety
Low self-confidence
Breakdown of serotonin
Drugs like antidepressants
- Delayed Ejaculation- When the ejaculation takes too long and/or is very little.
Reasons for delayed ejaculation:
Chronic health disease
Extreme alcohol/ tobacco consumption
Surgeries
Relationship issues
- Retrograde Ejaculation- When the ejaculation is forced back into the bladder.
Reasons for retrograde ejaculation:
Diabetes-related issues
The side effect of hormonal medicines
Operation on bladder
- Erectile Dysfunction- A person is not able to get or maintain an erection.
Reasons for erectile dysfunction:
Diseases affecting blood flow to the lower abdomen
Performance anxiety
Penis injury
Smoking/drinking alcohol
Treatments of Sexual Dysfunction in Ayurveda
- Massage
Massage with ayurvedic herbal oils helps in rejuvenating the body. It causes mental calmness and enhances physical strength.
Relaxation is known to improve erectile dysfunction. The body and mind react differently to different herbal oils.
- Vajikarana Therapy
In Sanskrit, Vaji means horse. Men are believed to perform like a horse with Vajikarana therapy.
This therapy acts on the hypothalamus and the limbic system of the brain.
It lowers sexual anxiety and increases reproductive hormones- testosterone in men and estrogen in women.
- Medicinal Plants
Plants like pomegranate help in overcoming erectile dysfunction. It is rich in antioxidants and enhances blood flow to the pelvic region.
- Yoga
Ayurveda mentions the benefits of yoga, not only for sexual dysfunction. It reduces stress, which treats mild erectile dysfunction.
Kundalini Yoga stimulates sexual energy. Moola Bandha increases the blood flow to the pelvis.
Conclusion
It is common t experience sexual dysfunctions. However, no one openly talks about the issues and the stress that comes with them.
Dr. Jogesh Passi is a leading ayurvedic specialist in Ludhiana who can aid you with your sexual problems.
It is beneficial to talk to your partner about any mental stress or anxiety or visit an ayurvedic specialist, in case of serious issues.