Study Examines Separation Between FSD and Sexual Distress

Fear of sexual addiction could prevent proper treatment for a number of women dealing with sexual dysfunction. The true definition of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes anxiety about sexual performance in combination of distressful feelings. Fortunately, sexual distress does not necessarily indicate sexual dysfunction.

A recent Good Therapy report examined the work of A. Burri, who set out to gain a better understanding as to why distress is in place for women with FSD, and even some who do not have this ailment. Burri, a researcher with the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King’s College in London, examined data based on 930 British female twins.

Results of this effort suggest that only one-third of those participating in the study actually had any difficulties with sex. Sexual dysfunction was reported by 319 women, yet only one-third of those actually experience sexual distress in combination with FSD.

Of the other sexually functioning women participants, nearly 20 percent of them reported sexual distress. In examining results in this study, Burri also found that genetics and the individual’s environment played a significant role in the overall development of distress and sexual function.

For Burri, the results of this study have significant clinical implications, suggesting that those treating women for FSD may consider a separation between sexual distress and dysfunction when designing treatment. At the same time, women experiencing sexual distress, even if they don’t meet the criteria for FSD, may still benefit from treatments aimed at this impairment.

To effectively treat each individual, Burri emphasizes the importance of isolation in relation to genetics, environments, psychology and more, when determining the proper treatment for women struggling with sexual issues.