For many a sexual problem or sexual dysfunction can cause a struggle in a relationship, and can often lead to greater problems down the line if not dealt with as soon as possible. Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity, the response cycle consists of four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.

There are a number of things that can cause sexual dysfunction, they can be either physical or psychological and can normally be treated with either some understanding of the problem, a lifestyle change or medication such as Viagra.

Some physical causes of sexual dysfunction include: diabetes, heart and vascular (blood vessel) disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic diseases such as kidney or liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. Also certain medications can also have an effect such as antidepressants. People also suffering from psychological problems which stem from work-related stress and anxiety, concern about sexual performance, marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the effects of a past sexual trauma can have a huge effect on them.

It’s not only just men who suffer from sexual dysfunction, women do to, although in men there is physical side that can be seen with women its harder to see.  Low sexual desire is a common problem in women how with recent technical advance this can now be treated with Intrinsa, which is a patch worn on the skin that releases small amounts of testosterone into the bloodstream to increase sexual desire.