Current thoughts on psychosexual disorders in women

Abstract

Key content The importance of responsive desire in women, triggered by physical and mental arousal rather than spontaneous desire, is now acknowledged. A review of the DSM‐IV classification of sexual dysfunction in 1999 led to retention of the categories of desire, arousal, orgasmic and pain disorder and were expanded to include physical, as well as psychological, causes. A new diagnosis of non‐coital pain disorder was also suggested. Historically, pain syndromes are categorised as dyspareunia or vaginismus, but they often overlap. Management of psychosexual disorders requires an understanding of psychosexual function and an ability to communicate about sexual matters. Learning objectives To gain an understanding of the complexities of the female sexual response and psychosexual problems. To understand that sexual problems are common in women attending gynaecology clinics. To be more willing to communicate with patients about sexual matters. Ethical issues The sensitive nature of sexual problems raises the dilemma of how to talk to women about significant events without causing further trauma. Please cite this article as: Coulson C, Crowley T. Current thoughts on psychosexual disorders in women. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:217–222.