Female Impotence: The Unspoken Truth

Valentines Day is almost here. A day of love and romance; a time for couples to express their mutual affection for one another. However, days such as February 14th cause great anxiety in men and women who suffer from sexual impotence. Currently, over 40% of American women battle with "female sexual dysfunction" or female impotence.

Female sexual dysfunction "FSD" is a term commonly used to describe difficulties in becoming aroused or having an orgasm. FSD is similar to the dysfunction experienced in men called erectile dysfunction or impotence. FSD has a major impact on a woman's quality of life including self esteem and self worth. FSD also puts a heavy burden on intimate relationships causing insecurities and resentment in partners.

FSD can be caused by an array of conditions, both psychological and biological. For example:

Psychological:

- Stress
- Exhaustion
- Depression
- Body Image Issues
- Physical or Sexual Abuse

Biological:

- Drug or Alcohol Addiction
- Disease
- Hormonal Imbalance
- Medication Side Effects
- Birth Abnormalities

Seeking consultation with a qualified therapist specializing in sexual disorders can help determine whether a medical examination and treatment may be necessary next step. Regardless of whether the FSD is biological or psychological in nature, therapy is a beneficial and essential first step to recovery. If you are unsure whether your FSD is biological or psychological it is recommended that you first make an appointment with your gynecologist or family doctor. If you, or your MD, determine that your FSD is a psychological issue, seeking therapy is the first step in treating FSD. According to Stephen Braveman, Marriage and Family Therapist, "Many couples find working with a therapist helps them gain, or regain, a healthy, happy sex life even when the problems leading to FSD are medically based."

A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) specializing in sexual dysfunctions or disorders can help treat your FSD by exploring ways to communicate with your partner, strengthening your self image, choosing healthier lifestyles, helping to resolve past trauma, or coping with medical ailments resulting in FSD. To learn more about the services offered by Marriage and Family Therapists or to locate a therapist, visit California's online mental health resource, www.CounselingCalifornia.com.

About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the
state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed marriage
and family therapists. CAMFT provides CounselingCalifornia.com as a resource to the public looking for marriage and family therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please
call (858) 292-2638 or visit www.camft.org.

Media Contact: Amber Albrecht
Porter Novelli
Phone: (619) 687-7015 or (949) 500-2535
E-mail: amber.albrecht@porternovelli.com