Sexual Desire Problems -- What You Can Do

Self-Care at Home

Treatment is not needed for all sexual problems. Some problems can be solved by you and your partner alone with a little openness and creativity.

 

• Some problems go away by themselves over time--patience and understanding are all that is required.

   

• Sometimes talking the problem out with your partner is enough. Women who learn to tell their partners about their sexual needs have a better chance of having a satisfying sex life.

   

• Try to make the solution is fun--think up ways to inject a little romance and excitement into your sexual routine.

Some strategies women use to overcome sexual problems:

 

• Set aside time to be alone or alone with your partner, without children and other distractions

   

• Use erotic videos or books to increase stimulation

   

• Masturbate to learn about what increases your arousal

   

• Fantasize about what arouses you sexually; if appropriate, tell your partner about these fantasies

   

• Use sensual massage and other forms of touch

   

• Try new sexual positions or scenarios

   

• Use relaxation techniques such as a warm bath before having sex

   

• Use a vaginal lubricant to relieve arousal problems due to vaginal dryness

Several excellent books are available in mainstream bookstores or from mail-order sources to help couples deal with sexual and communication problems. Many people prefer this "do-it-yourself" method to talking about these problems with an outsider.