There is no one clear reason for decrease in sexual arousal.  It can be combined with low drive or even sexual pain.  As aging happens blood flow slows down. In men, they have difficulty achieving an erection. In women, the ability to lubricate and become wet becomes more difficult.  Therefore medications that increase blood flow like Viagra or Cialis can help women as well as men to increase their arousal.

Life can be busy and a busy schedule can absolutely play a role in decreased arousal.  Women can find it difficult to turn off their minds during intercourse so instead of focusing on arousal we end up thinking about laundry or other responsibilities that need our attention.

I have had patients tell me that they just don’t know what all the fuss is about when it comes to sex.  They get into bed with their partner and nothing seems to happen.  Overtime, this can take its toll on sexuality and possible sexual avoidance which can result in relationship problems with your partner.  Low Arousal can be a combination of several physiological changes in the body. These include but are not limited to: vaginal lubrication, nipple erections, vulvar swelling or a tingling sensation in the vagina.  There are treatment options for every one of these situations.

Treatment for Low Arousal or Difficulty Achieving Orgasm:

• Topical treatments – warming agents, lubricants, moisturizers
• Vibrators
• Medications / Hormone replacement
• Sex Therapy/ Counseling