For Women Factsheets - Sexual Advice Association

Sex and Ageing

Today men and women are living longer, healthier lives. Sexual intimacy and activity is an important part of life.

Women’s Sexual Problems

Sexual problems in women are common. The main types include: a lack of sexual desire, a lack of sexual arousal, problems with orgasm and pain during sex.

Problems with orgasm

What are orgasms? An orgasm (also called ‘coming’ or ‘climaxing’) has been described as an intense and pleasurable release of sexual tension that had built up in the earlier...

Lack of sexual desire and/or arousal

Sexual desire (also known as ‘sex drive’ or ‘libido’) is controlled by the brain. It is the biological, driving force that makes us think about sex and behave sexually.

Pain during or after sex

What is it? Pain felt during or after sex is known as dyspareunia (pronounced dys- par- eu- nia). Occasional dyspareunia is normal, with deep penetration for example. But this...

Vaginal dryness and the menopause

What is the menopause? The menopause is when a woman’s periods stop permanently because the ovaries no longer produce oestrogen or release eggs. This may occur naturally or as...