Coughlan’s syndrome or anorgasmia as it is sometimes referred is a medical condition in which the affected person is unable to reach sexual orgasm even after sufficient sexual stimulation. It is a condition which mostly affects women and it is estimated that it affects about 10 to 15 percent of women. It can be classified as a form of sexual dysfunction where in women even after intense sexual stimulation the affected woman cannot reach orgasm.
In men for instance the affected man may find it difficult to ejaculate and experience delayed ejaculation. The effect of the syndrome usually causes sexual frustration to the affected person. It has been established that the problem is rare on younger men but more common in women who have past the age of 45 or post menopause.
What causes Anorgasmia in men?
People usually experience orgasms differently and every person has their own unique way of experiencing orgasm. That said, orgasms also vary in intensity and also frequency and even the intensity of stimulation that is required to bring about an orgasm may be different form one person to the next.
For an orgasm to be achieved there are several factors that usually come into play which are physical, psychological and emotional. If there is any problem that affects these factors then the ability for the individual to orgasm will also be affected. It has been established that medical conditions and neurological diseases may also affect the sexual response cycle of an individual.
Medical problems that affect blood supply to the pelvis such as hypertension, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, medicines used to treat diabetes have been found to cause anorgasmia. Other causes of anorgasmia also include injuries suffered in the spinal cord, cauda equine syndrome, cardiovascular disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, hormonal disorder, Addison disease, Cushing syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, hypopituitarism and other chronic illnesses.
How to Diagnose Anorgasmia?
Before effective treatment for anorgasmia is administered it is important that the exact cause of the problem is established first. In cases where it is suspected that anorgasmia may be caused by psychological factors then the patient may be subjected to a mental status examination. Women suffering from the condition as a result of psychological issues will exhibit stress and appear depressed. The physician will then try to find out about the victim’s temporal relationship and her sexual problems and also the changes in her mood.
Anorgasmia may be caused by anxiety and depression and if it is established that indeed it is stress or anxiety that is causing anorgasmia in a woman then counseling may be recommended to try and deal with the problem. Counseling has helped alleviate anorgasmia from women who before experienced psychological sexual trauma or inhibition. All these can simply be performed by a qualified medical general practitioner.
If it is suspected that anorgasmia may have been caused by another underlying medical condition then the physician my need to conduct blood tests to try and find if there is any presence of disease. Below are some of the tests the physician may conduct:
- Blood test to establish blood count.
- Oestradiol/estradiol.
- Liver function test.
- Total testosterone testing.
- Tests on FSH/LH.
- Tests on SHBG.
- Tests on thyroid function.
- Prolactin testing.
- Tests on lipids and fasting blood sugar.
The above tests are usually done to try and ascertain if the cause of anorgasmia could be as a result of diabetes, hormonal imbalance, or low thyroid function.
Point to note: as you visit any health facility with the intention for a diagnosis to be performed on you it is advisable that you answer all the questions you are asked well and accurately. You should not feel embarrassed about the question your physician will ask you because it these questions are the ones that will enable the physician to establish the cause of your anorgasmia issue.
Sexual dysfunction is usually a complex issue and therefore for it to be dealt with fairly well a comprehensive medical history about the patient is vital.
What are the Treatment Options for Anorgasmia?
In men anorgasmia may be treated by way of using authentic male enhancement supplements that will help alleviate the causes of the condition. Such supplements often help improve libido, sex drive, give stamina and also enhance pleasure. In women the problem may be addressed by the use of hormonal patches or tablets which help to deal with hormonal imbalances.
Other devices such as clitoral vacuum pumps, or medication formulated to boost blood flow to the genitals may be used to help enhance sexual sensation and arousal. Generally trying to be positive and avoiding circumstances that may make you get stressed or depressed may also go a long way in ensuring that you greatly improve your sex life for the better.