What Are Sexual Disorders?

Sexual disorders – or sexual dysfunctions – describe ongoing issues preventing an individual, or couple, from experiencing satisfaction with sexual activity. The issues may arise at any point in the sexual response cycle – desire, arousal, orgasm, or resolution. According to the DSM-5, a sexual disorder can be clinically classified if the symptoms cause significant distress or difficulty socially or interpersonally and have been evident for a minimum of six months. Sexual disorders are not only physical and can have deeper psychosocial roots that can affect the suffering individual’s self-esteem, relationships, and mental health.

Types of Sexual Disorders in Men and Women

Although the reasons may differ, both men and women can have sexual disorders. Common disorders in men are erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, and low libido. ED is the inability to get or maintain an erection that is adequate erection for sexual intercourse. Premature ejaculation is ejaculation that occurs before the person wishes. Delayed ejaculation is the difficulty or inability to ejaculate when there is adequate arousal.

In women, sexual disorders are usually low sexual desire, arousal difficulties, anorgasmia or the inability to achieve orgasm, and dyspareunia or experiencing pain during intercourse. Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder is a common sexual disorder that involves a lack of sexual interest or arousal in women. Sexual disorders can be distressing issues for both genders and can contribute to withdrawal and troubled relationships if not treated.

Reasons for Sexual Disorders: Physical and Psychological Factors

Physical and psychological factors interact to affect sexual dysfunction. Physical impairments of sexual function are caused by conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hormonal issues, neurologic disease, and chronic conditions such as kidney or liver failure. Substance use (such as alcohol and recreational drug use) and unwanted side effects of certain medications (especially antidepressants) can also impair sexual functioning.

Psychological causes can be equally significant. Stress, anxiety, depression, feelings of pressure to perform, or even unresolved and ongoing conflicts in the relationship may be just a few of the psychological triggers. An individual’s previous trauma (particularly in the form of sexual abuse) can negatively impact sexual functioning over time. Many times, individuals are unaware that their emotional or mental health is negatively impacting their sexual health. This is why taking a broad view when looking to diagnose and treat sexual health is increasingly important.

Early Signs and Symptoms that Shouldn’t be Overlooked

Sexual disorders tend to emerge gradually, and early signs can be quite subtle. Typically, symptoms can include an ongoing lack of interest in sexual activity, difficulty getting aroused, difficulty staying aroused, difficulty reaching orgasm, premature or delayed ejaculation, and pain during sex. Symptoms that also occur in the emotional realm, such as anxiety, guilt, or frustration while engaged in sexual activity, also fall into the “warning signal” category. Signs that may indicate something more serious is going on could be an avoidance of sexual intimacy, disconnection from a sexual partner, or a combination of the two. Not listening to the warning signs and instead normalizing symptoms that will not disappear without attention can lead to worsening of the problem. Left unattended, the symptoms can spiral into worse manifestations, problems, and fractured relationships. Early identification and action can have tremendously favorable outcomes and can even bring back the confidence and intimacy in the relationship.

Treatment Options for Sexual Disorders in Delhi

Delhi has a variety of treatment modalities for sexual disorders, but Dr. Manish Sarkar exceeds the expertise and provides integrated, thoughtful care. Dr. Sarkar has 15+ years of experience and a reputation for quality, and is one of the best psychiatrists in Delhi for the treatment of sexual disorders. His clinic, Ehsaas, is located in Chittaranjan Park in South Delhi and provides an open and discreet setting for patients to share their concerns.

Treatment starts with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the disorder. Based on the diagnosis, Dr. Sarkar will either recommend a medical treatment, lifestyle adjustment, or psychological treatment. Prescriptions such as PDE5 inhibitors (like sildenafil) can be used to treat erectile dysfunction, or hormonal treatment might be suggested if the cause of sexual dysfunction is a hormonal imbalance. For many, a course of treatment that involves both medical and psychological interventions yields the best results.

Role of Counseling and Psychotherapy in Treatment of Sexual Disorders

Psychotherapy is a critical component of sexual disorder treatment, especially if there are psychological contributors. Dr. Sarkar considers evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), sex therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies in his treatment. In doing so, patients can address negative thought processes, tackle performance anxiety, and reconstruct self-esteem.

Couples therapy can also be provided to enhance communication and intimacy between intimate partners. Many sexual disorders are based on relational dynamics, and dealing with these matters can lead to tremendous improvements. Dr. Sarkar is empathetic and non-judgmental, allowing the patient to feel safe and supported during their treatment process.

Also read: Depression Treatment In Delhi

When Is It Time To See A Doctor Like Dr. Manish Sarkar For Sexual Dysfunction?

If sexual dysfunction is impacting your quality of life, self-esteem, or relationship, it is a good time to seek professional help. You may want to consult with Dr. Manish Sarkar if:-

• Symptoms have persisted for longer than six months
• You have emotional issues about sexual activity
• You have been trying to help yourself, and it has not worked
• Your sexual difficulties are straining your relationship, and/or
• You think you might have a medical or psychological condition.

Dr. Sarkar’s clinic provides in-person and online appointments for patients in Delhi and beyond. He ensures every patient receives the attention they deserve with a patient-focused practice, advanced diagnosis, and individualized treatment.

Why Dr. Manish Sarkar?

Dr. Manish Sarkar is a NIMHANS graduate and one of Delhi’s most established practitioners in psychiatric and sexual health care. He leads a multidisciplinary team within the clinic Ehsaas that offers a variety of services, including: medication (prescribing and monitoring), psychotherapy, lifestyle counseling, etc. His clinic is known for ironclad confidentiality, sincere care, and incredibly high rates of success even for complex cases.