Introductory Chapter: Sexual Dysfunction - Introduction and Perspective

Abstract

Psychiatric Association [1] gives the following classifications of sexual dysfunctions: delayed ejaculation, erectile disorder, female orgasmic disorder, female sexual interest/arousal disorder, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, male hypoactive sexual desire disorder, premature (early) ejaculation, substance-/medication-induced sexual dysfunction, other specified sexual dysfunction, and unspecified sexual dysfunction. It is evident that sexual dysfunctions constitute a heterogeneous group of disorders. They are characterized by clinically significant disturbances to respond sexually or experience sexual pleasure. Determining the character of the sexual dysfunction is a complex issue, which needs extensive clinical and psychological/ psychiatric expertise in order to come to a correct clinical judgment and includes partner and relationship factors, individual vulnerability, psychiatric comorbidity, stressors, and cultural, religious, and medical factors.Sexual functioning involves a complex interaction of biological, sociocultural, and psychological factors, which makes a clear diagnosis sometimes rather difficult. In any case, problems should be ruled out that are caused by interfering factors, like drugs, medicines, a medical condition (e.g., pelvic nerve damage) or external factors like partner violence, or other severe stressors.