It’s not easy talking about your sexual concerns, and it’s also not easy living with them. So, it’s time to take action. All it takes is three simple steps:
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- Make an appointment. FSD can be upsetting. If you’re tired of worrying about it, don’t wait for your next physical; make an appointment with a healthcare provider.
- Think ahead. Whether you’re talking to your OB/GYN, primary care physician, nurse practitioner, or therapist, there are going to be some questions for you. So give some thought to the following before your appointment: What’s bothering you? How long has this been an issue? Have you ever experienced this before?
- Fire away. All you need are a few questions to get the conversation going. Choose a few below that you feel apply to your situation and then start taking control of your sexual health.
- Why is sex becoming so painful now?
- Is a low libido normal for my age?
- Why don’t I have interest in sex anymore?
- Will my level of desire return to what it was?
- Are there lifestyle changes I can make?
- What books or reading materials would you recommend?
- Why is it so hard to have an orgasm?
- I’ve never had an orgasm; does it mean I never will?
Listen to ASHA’s three-part conversation with sociologist and sexual health expert Dr. Pepper Schwartz on female sexual difficulties. She discusses the range of female sexual difficulties, the impact of sexual difficulties on a relationship, and offers practical advice and resources for women (and their partners). You can listen on ASHA’s website or via iTunes.