Understanding psychosexual dysfunctions
Psychosexual dysfunctions can affect desire, arousal, orgasm or physical comfort, as well as confidence and intimacy. Whatever you are experiencing, you deserve to be heard with sensitivity, respect and without judgement.
Understanding psychosexual dysfunctions and intimacy
Changes in desire, arousal, orgasm or physical comfort are more common than many people realise. They can have physical, psychological, emotional or relationship-related causes, often in combination.
Psychosexual therapy provides a confidential space to explore what is happening and consider a way forward that feels appropriate for you, individually or as a couple.
Psychosexual dysfunctions affecting women
Explore some of the concerns that may bring people to psychosexual therapy. Select a topic to read more.
Desire and interest
Explore some of the psychosexual dysfunctions and concerns that may bring people to therapy. Select a topic to read more.
Arousal and sensation
You may want sexual intimacy but find it difficult to become physically or mentally aroused. Stress, medication, health conditions, relationship experiences and many other factors can contribute. Exploring these together can help you understand what is happening.
Orgasm difficulties
Some people find orgasm difficult, take longer than they would like, or have never experienced one. There is no single correct way to experience sexual pleasure. Therapy can help address anxiety, expectations and other factors when the difficulty is distressing.
Pain during sex
Pain or discomfort can affect intimacy and confidence. Experiences may include vaginismus, vulvodynia, discomfort with penetration or other forms of genital pain. Persistent pain deserves medical assessment as well as compassionate psychosexual support.
Psychosexual dysfunctions affecting men
These experiences can feel isolating, but they are valid reasons to seek support. Select a topic to read more.
Desire and interest
Changes in sexual desire can occur at different times of life. You might feel less interested in sex than you once did, find that desire emerges only after intimacy begins, or notice a difference between your wishes and a partner’s. Therapy offers space to explore the emotional, relational and practical factors involved.
Erection difficulties
Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection can happen occasionally or become a recurring concern. Worry about it happening again may add to the pressure. Physical health, medication and emotional factors can all play a part; medical advice may be appropriate alongside therapy.
Ejaculation difficulties
Some people experience ejaculation earlier than they would like, find it difficult to ejaculate, or are unable to ejaculate. These concerns can affect confidence and relationships. Therapy provides a supportive setting to explore them without embarrassment or blame.
Pain and physical changes
Conditions such as phimosis or Peyronie’s disease may cause discomfort or concerns about sexual activity. A medical assessment is important for identifying and treating physical causes; psychosexual therapy can support the emotional and relationship impact.
Support beyond labels
The categories above are a starting point, not a definition of who you are. Sexual difficulties are not limited by gender, and your experience may not fit neatly into any one category.
Where pain, sudden changes or other physical symptoms are present, it can be important to speak with a GP or appropriate healthcare professional. Therapy can work alongside medical care, rather than replace it. For general information about sexual health, you can also visit the NHS sexual health guidance.
Let’s talk
If you would like to explore whether psychosexual therapy could help, you are welcome to get in touch. Online sessions are available for individuals and couples.
Get in touch50-minute online sessions · £80 · Google Meet