Sexual dysfunction is a common but sensitive topic.
Research indicates that many people encounter some form of sexual problem during their lifetime.
Although uncomfortable to discuss, seeking treatment is crucial.
Failure to address these issues may result in both physical and mental complications.
From strained relationships and low self-esteem to more serious medical conditions, the consequences of untreated sexual dysfunction can be severe.
This article will explore the potential complications of untreated sexual problems and provide guidance on seeking treatment.
Know about Sexual problems and dysfunctions.
Sexual disorders belong to an extremely heterogeneous area of psychopathology.
Sexual problems can be defined as “sexual dysfunctions ” that include the following disorders:
- delayed ejaculation
- erectile disorder
- female orgasmic disorder
- Genitopelvic pain and penetration disorder
- male hypoactive sexual desire disorder
- premature ejaculation
- substance/medication-induced sexual dysfunction
Sexual dysfunctions, despite their different clinical characteristics, are characterized by an anomaly in the process that underlies the sexual response cycle or by pain associated with sexual intercourse.
What complications will occur if sex problems are left untreated?
Neglecting to address sexual issues can result in various physical and psychological complications.
Below are the prevalent consequences of untreated sexual dysfunction.
Relationship problems: Sexual dysfunction can lead to difficulties in a relationship. In cases where one partner is facing sexual problems related to desire, arousal, or performance, it may lead to tension and frustration for both parties involved.
Over time, this can strain the relationship and lead to feelings of resentment and even a breakdown in communication.
Psychological distress: Sexual problems may result in negative psychological consequences, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Men dealing with premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their sexual abilities.
Medical complications: Untreated sexual problems may signal underlying medical issues such as heart disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances, potentially leading to serious health complications.
Decreased quality of life: Sexual dysfunction can negatively impact a person’s overall quality of life. It can lead to a decline in sexual satisfaction, diminished intimacy, and an overall sense of dissatisfaction with life.
In short, untreated sexual problems can create a wide range of complications that can affect a person’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Seeking treatment from sexologist is essential for addressing these issues and preventing them from escalating into more serious problems.
Treatment of sexual problems
The intervention, which can be both individual and for couples, proposes a series of sexual behavior prescriptions, the so-called tasks, which aim to intervene in 4 specific areas involved in sexuality, according to the initial assessment by the clinician :
1) Self-knowledge
It concerns the personal and behavioral knowledge of one’s body and of sexual responses, starting from visual and tactile exploration.
The exploration of thoughts, internal dialogue, one’s imagination, and one’s emotional content is obtained with the process of self-observation.
2) Self-knowledge with the other
The partner becomes a mirror in which to observe himself, always on three levels: a) behavioral, with reference to the body and sexual responses of the partner; b) cognitive, understood as the discovery of the partner’s emotional response and desires; c) relational.
3) The knowledge of one’s own pleasure and experiences
Possibility to experience sexual pleasure, to discover it in its individual aspect, and to get in touch with your own emotions.
4) The knowledge of the intimacy of the couple
The exploration of behaviors useful for providing mutual pleasure, as well as exposure to increasing levels of intimacy with the sharing of sexual emotions, in order to experience mutual trust as a goal in a cooperative process.
In conclusion, sexual problems left untreated can cause various physical and psychological complications, leading to a decreased quality of life.
It is essential to address sexual problems to improve overall well-being and prevent more serious problems.
You should not allow feelings of embarrassment or shame to hinder you from seeking assistance.