Having Difficulty Reaching Orgasm? You're Not Alone.
By Julie Sarton, PT, DPT, WCS
Today is National Orgasm Day! We are happy to help spread awareness and remove taboos, however, we recognize that this can also be a disheartening day if you have every had trouble reaching orgasm. According to the research, anywhere from 10-40% of women report having difficulty or an inability to reach orgasm. If this is you, know that you are not alone and that there is help.
What are some of the more common reasons for difficulty with orgasm? Every case is unique. A combination of factors come into play and can range from physical to emotional. A team approach with experts in each of these areas is required to help overcome this type of sexual dysfunction, but, take heart, it can be done
In our practice as pelvic floor physical therapists, we treat the physical aspects related to female sexual dysfunction (FSD) including 1) Muscle problems with the pelvic floor – theses muscles can either be too weak or short and hypertonic not allowing for appropriate blood flow to the the clitoris and G spot 2) Hormonal deficiencies such low testosterone – the glans clitoris is very dependent on a healthy amount of this! 3) Decreased nerve firing/innervation particularly of the dorsal branch of the pudendal nerve that brings sensation to the clitoris. If you struggle with orgasm, find a pelvic floor PT and have them assess your pelvic floor musculature!
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of addressing both the physical factors as well as what are known as the bio-psycho-social factors of sexual dysfunction. A good orgasm is the honest and true connection of mind and body. That’s why we are yoked closely with amazing sexual medicine practitioners – MDS, sex therapists and psychologists who can help – as with anything, it always takes a village!
References
Pastore, E. A., & Katzman, W. B. (2012). Recognizing myofascial pelvic pain in the female patient with chronic pelvic pain. Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing : JOGNN, 41(5), 680–691. doi:10.1111/j.1552-6909.2012.01404.x
Sarton, J. (2007) Physical Therapy for Pelvic Pain: Understanding the Musculoskeletal Connection. The Female Patient, 32(5).
We want to encourage you to get evaluated by one of our outstanding physical therapists, and regain control of your life. Pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, back pain, tailbone pain—you name it—these conditions do not have to control your life. There is hope. Call us today to book an appointment for 1 of our 3 Southern California locations, or inquire about a virtual, online treatment session.
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