Sexual Dysfunction
One of the more common but overlooked symptoms of peripheral neuropathy is sexual dysfunction for males and females. Sexual dysfunction refers to a host of various problems that can happen during any phase of the normal sexual response cycle. The condition can prevent people from experiencing sexual gratification and satisfaction from shared sexual activity.
While the traditional sexual response cycle includes excitement (foreplay), plateau, orgasm, and resolution, people with sexual dysfunction may not be able to go through the stages properly. While it is true that the phases don’t have to happen in order, it’s still important to go through them.
Healthcare experts classify sexual dysfunction as desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasm disorders, and pain disorders. People experiencing desire disorders don’t have enough desire to pursue an interest or desire to have sex with their partner. People with arousal disorders cannot become physically stimulated and aroused during intercourse. Those with orgasm disorders can manifest delay or absence of orgasms. Meanwhile, those with pain disorders have painful intercourse due to various factors.
Doctors believe that people can have psychological and physical causes for sexual dysfunction. For example, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, kidney or liver failure, stress, and alcohol disorders can cause the condition.
