Psychosexual Dysfunction Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the cause of the psychosexual dysfunction.

Some medications can alleviate the symptoms (for example, medications to alleviate erectile dysfunction or to help overcome vaginal dryness). However, to successfully manage psychosexual dysfunction, it is important to treat and manage the mental and emotional issues that underlie the problem.

Treatment options for psychosexual dysfunction include the following:

Medication

Medications may be prescribed to treat the symptoms. Medications differ for men and women.

Medication/treatments for men include:

• For erectile problems:
  • Phosphodiesterase inhibitors-(Viagra [sildenafil], Cialis [vardenafil], Levitra [tadalafil])–A phosphodiesterase inhibitor enhances blood flow in the penis and makes it easier to develop and sustain an erection. The medication is provided in a pill.
  • Vasoactive agents-(phentolamine or papaverine)–This type of medication is given by injection. The medications cause blood vessels in the penis to expand. This increases the blood flow to the penis and results in an erection.
  • Testosterone replacement therapy-This might be helpful for some men, though there is little supporting evidence.
  • Mechanical devices-There are a number of mechanical devices that men can use to maintain an erection. These include:
    • Constriction devices-A binding device is placed at the base of the penis to slow the outflow of blood to produce and maintain an erection.
    • Vacuum devices-A device that creates a suction is placed over the penis. The suction causes blood to flow to the penis to produce and maintain an erection.
• For premature ejaculation
  • Medications in the SSRI family, such as Paxil (paroxetine) have been shown effective. They may be used on a daily basis, or several hours prior to intercourse
  • Anesthetic creams may be useful

Medications for Women Include:

• Testosterone replacement therapy (the hormone testosterone is thought to increase sexual activity and enjoyment, though this has not been proven)
• Vaginal estrogen creams or rings.
• Lubricants-used to ease vaginal dryness

Psychotherapy

You talk and work with a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or licensed counselor to figure out ways to deals with stressful or painful issues.

Sex Therapy

Sex therapists assist you by encouraging communications, teaching you about sexual fantasies, and helping you focus on sexual stimuli.

Behavioral Therapy

A psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or licensed counselor works with you to unlearn automatic behaviors.

Marriage or Relationship Counseling

Couples meet with a psychologist, social worker or other type of mental health professional to discuss issues, including communications problems.