Sexual health and wellness is much more than simply the absence of disease or dysfunction.
Any pursuit of overall human health and wellness must address our sexuality. Sexual health is vital to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Throughout our lives, we are sexual beings. We naturally seek human intimacy. Sex is a form of intimacy but by no means the only one. Sexual health is a state in which we are free to express our sexuality in healthy ways. It includes freedom from sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancy, coercion, violence, and discrimination. Healthy sexuality is a necessary component of healthy human relationships, one that allows us to enhance the quality, enjoyment, and meaning of our lives.
The doctors and staff at ThriveMD in Dallas, TX take a “whole body and mind” approach to healthcare. As a medical practice, ThriveMD recognizes that sexual health and well-being are an essential part of responsible, high-quality patient service. Our Dallas Sexual Wellness customized treatments offered at ThriveMD can increase sex drive, elevate sexual performance and deepen human intimacy.
Healthy sexuality does not simply “come naturally.”
But most of us have had relatively little (if any) sexual and intimacy training. Most of us also do not have a trusted source of advice. Even doctors often feel uncomfortable talking to patients about sex. Maybe that’s not surprising, considering that on average, physicians get less than ten hours of sex education training over their four years of medical school. That’s why it’s essential to find a healthcare provider that is specially trained to promote your sexual knowledge and health. ThriveMD in Dallas, TX is such a provider.
Trust is essential to intimacy. We all need to feel free to express our thoughts, needs, and desires to our partners. Sexual physical or mental discomfort will almost always lead to sexual aversion. Sexual communication is a continual process. It can’t be a one-time conversation. Our needs and feelings change over the course of our lives. Keep talking!
Sexual dysfunction refers to any and all problems that prevent a person or couple from experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity. Problems can occur at any point in the sexual response cycle. That cycle traditionally includes excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
Sexual dysfunction occurs in four categories:
Sexual dysfunction can affect males and females of all ages, although it is more common in people over 40 years of age. Symptoms of sexual dysfunction in men include:
Among women, there are three main symptoms of sexual dysfunction.
Sexual dysfunction can have a wide range of physical causes including but not limited to diabetes, heart and vascular disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic liver and/or kidney disease, and drug or alcohol abuse. Some prescription medications can have an impact on sexual function as well. Psychological issues such as depression or anxiety, concern about sexual performance, relationship problems, and concerns about body image can also trigger or contribute to sexual dysfunction.
Fifty-two percent of American men suffer from some form of sexual dysfunction. Among women, that figure is 43 percent. So, among men with erectile dysfunction (ED), 43 percent of their female partners will have female sexual dysfunction, known as FSD. Conversely, among women with FSD, 29 percent of their male partners will have ED. Clearly, this is a couples issue.
The global sexual wellness market has an estimated worth of $40 billion. And projections forecast that figure will continue to grow at an annual rate of more than nine percent.
Brain. We cannot get more connected with our bodies without first getting better connected with our minds. Much of modern sexual wellness medical research is carried on at the neurological level. It’s called “sexual mindfulness,” and can include serenity-inducing practices like yoga and meditation.
Your doctor should perform a complete physical exam and carefully review your medical history. Diagnostic tests may be ordered to exclude medical disorders that may contribute to the dysfunction. A physician thoroughly trained in diagnosing and treating sexual dysfunction will ask patients about possible psychological issues.
Sexual wellness experts agree almost unanimously that sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction is a couples issue, and that partners should be treated concurrently.
Cultivate a positive attitude about your body. Get to know what you like. And get to know what you don’t like. Take the time to discover what feels good to you and communicate that to your partner freely, comfortably, and cheerfully. If you’re not getting what you want and need, express it and address it. And remember, the stronger the emotional connection with your partner, the better the sex!
Most types of sexual dysfunction can be addressed by treating the underlying physical or psychological causes. Some prescription medications may be appropriate. For men, erectile dysfunction is often treated using pills designed to increasing blood flow to the penis.
Both men and women with hormone deficiencies may benefit from hormone-boosting treatments. For women, estrogen supplementation may be beneficial. Men with abnormally low, non-age-related testosterone levels are sometimes treated with hormone shots, pills, patches, or creams. Mechanical aids such as vacuum devices and penile implants may improve erectile dysfunction. Dilators may help women whose vaginas are particularly narrow. Sex therapy including psychotherapy may be recommended for patients whose dysfunction may be rooted in psychological factors. Sexual wellness in Dallas is a key component in human health and happiness. The doctors and staff at ThriveMD in Dallas, TX recognize the importance of sexual health in promoting your well-being and happiness. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward optimizing your sexual satisfaction.
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