Sexual Health Causes

STD & Sexual Health Causes

When it comes to sexual problems, some have their roots in biological and physical causes and others in psychological and emotional ones. These causes prevent a couple from having a mutually-satisfying sexual relationship.

The most common biological causes of sexual health problems may be due to an underlying health condition that one partner has such as prostate, cervical or vaginal problems. Such problems may result in pain during intercourse or disrupted sexual performance.

For men, the most common sexual health problems are premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. For women, the most common sexual health problems are an inability to reach orgasm, lack of sexual desire and painful intercourse. Sometimes, one or more of these problems are operating concurrently: For instance, painful intercourse may reduce sexual desire which in turn makes it difficult for a woman to achieve an orgasm. When multiple factors are at play, identifying and then addressing the root cause is the first step towards restoring sexual health.

Here are the specific causes of the most common STDs and sexual health problems:

Genital Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV) virus which is transmitted from an infected person to a non-infected person via the exchange of bodily fluids, kissing or even skin-to-skin contact.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is spread by the human papillomaviruses. While there are over 100 different strains of these viruses, approximately 30 of them can be transmitted sexually. Chlamydia is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis which is a kind of bacterial parasite that is spread via sexual contact.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus which is spread through blood, semen, vaginal fluid and breast milk. The virus attacks the white blood cells of the immune system that over time leads to the gradual decline of our body’s ability to fight off foreign invaders.

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae which attacks the mucous membranes of the body. It is spread through sexual contact.

Erectile Dysfunction is caused by age as well as host of other lifestyle factors. Smoking, leading a sedentary lifestyle and taking certain kinds of medications contribute to Erectile Dysfunction.

Dyspareunia is caused by the anatomical structure of the uterus and pelvic muscles as well as uterine or ovarian disorders like endometriosis, fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Orgasmic Disorder is caused by psychological, environmental, and physiological factors in addition to certain medications, damage to the genital nerves are all possible causes for orgasmic disorder.

Sexual Desire or Interest Disorder is caused by psychological factors as well as hormonal changes and certain medications.

Sexual Arousal Disorder is caused by psychological and physical factors as well as hormonal changes.

The risk factors for sexual health problems vary according to the specific condition or issue.

Low sexual desire in women is more common females who are in unhappy relationships, are overly stressed, take certain medications and are in their menopausal years. For men, prostrate problems, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, diabetes, stress and heart disease are all risk factors for developing erectile dysfunction.

In addition, taking popular medications such as Prozac, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and certain heartburn medications are additional risk factors for both men and women in causing sexual dysfunction