The Four Phase of the Sexual Response Cycle - Sexual Pain Disorders

Describe the four categories of sexual dysfunctions and how they relate to the sexual response cycle. Pick one sexual dysfunction to explain in more detail, considering causes of such disorder and suggesting a treatment approach.

In order for one to understand why sexual problems occur, one must understand the sexual response cycle. The cycle occurs in the same stages for both men and women but at difference times. The four categories of sexual dysfunctions are Desire phase dysfunction represents problems in the anticipation of, and investment in sexual situations (Swellen, 2005).Arousal Disorders according to Swell (2005) Excitement phase sexual dysfunctional include Female Sexual Arousal Disorder and Male Erectile Disorder. These difficulties involve problematic deficiencies in the vascular processes that lead to lubrication swelling in women and erections in men. Orgasm phase dysfunctional include Male and Female orgasmic Disorders and premature ejaculation. Male and female orgasmic disorders are characterized by difficulty in actually experiencing orgasm even after consideration sexual stimulation (Swell, 2005). Pain disorders which occurs mostly in women. Dyspareunia and Vaginismus are the most common type of pain disorders in females.

Sexual pain disorders

Sexual pain disorders that affect women the most are known as Dyspareunia meaning painful intercourse and vaginismus which are spasm of the muscles of the vaginal that can interfere with intercourse. Dyspareunia can be cause by vaginal dryness. Poor lubrication can result from insufficient excitement, hormonal changes, menopause, pregnancy or even breast feeding. Vaginal dryness is one of the most common insufficient stimulation in younger women. In order women the decrease in estrogen can cause dryness.

Vaginismus is a painful muscle spasm surrounding the vaginal opening which can cause the vaginal opening to tighten. Because of this penetration can be painful. Some of the causes of vaginimus could be injuries or scares cause by surgery, inflections, and spermicides or even by the fear of sex.

Women who may experience painful intercourse after menopause may want to seek medical attention and talk with their doctor about estrogen therapy. Women can also purchase over the counter medication for creams or gels if they are experiencing dryness.

Sewell, K. W. (2005). The Experience Cycle and the Sexual Response Cycle: Conceptualization and Application to Sexual Dysfunctions. Journal of Constructivist Psychology, 18(1), 3-13.