Sexual Dysfunction

Definition

Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem occurring during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents an individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity.

Analogy

Think of sexual dysfunction like trying to listen to your favorite song on a radio with poor reception. You want to enjoy the music, but there's static (the dysfunction) interfering with your ability to fully experience and appreciate it.

Related terms

Erectile Disorder: This is a specific type of sexual dysfunction where an individual has consistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.

Female Orgasmic Disorder: Another specific type of sexual dysfunction, this disorder is characterized by delays in, infrequency of, or absence of orgasm after ample sexual stimulation.

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: This disorder involves a lack or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity causing significant distress or interpersonal difficulties.