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    • Dr. Margaret O'Farrell

    Sexual Problems Specialist

    Anorgasmia is the medical term used to describe regular difficulty in reaching orgasm after adequate sexual stimulation. An orgasm is an intense feeling of physical and emotional pleasure accompanied by involuntary, rhythmic contractions of the pelvic floor muscles. It is a relatively common problem with approximately 10% of women having never had an orgasm with a partner or masturbation.

    Each individual experiences orgasms very differently and the nature of an orgasm can vary depending on the circumstances (on own vs. a partner). Anorgasmia is the second most common sexual problem experienced by women and impacts their sexual health, general well being and relationships.

    The most common cause of difficulty with orgasms in women is inadequate clitoral stimulation during sex. 94% of women orgasm through stimulation of their clitoris, 63% of women orgasm through vaginal stimulation and 35% of women have a cervical orgasm. Each of these orgasms ‘feels’ different.

    Anorgasmia can be divided in to 3 different types. There is lifelong anorgasmia, in which the individual has never experienced an orgasm. Acquired or secondary anorgasmia occurs when there is a loss of ability to orgasm. Situational anorgasmia is when you are only able to orgasm in certain circumstances e.g. during masturbation.

    The causes of problems having an orgasm can be divided into physical, psychological and social categories:

    Physical

    • Neurological conditions that affect the nerve signals, for example Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
    • Gynaecological procedures- hysterectomy or cancer treatment
    • Female Genital Mutilation
    • Medications- antidepressants, antipsychotics, drugs to treat high blood pressure, antihistamines
    • Painful sex or other sources of pain
    • Alcohol and smoking
    • Effects of aging-a reduction in sex hormones, blood flow and normal nerve function can make it more difficult to orgasm
    • Chronic disease e.g. Diabetes

    Psychological

    • Stress
    • Mental health problems
    • Sexual or emotional abuse
    • Guilt
    • Religious or cultural beliefs

    Relationship Issues

    • Lack of emotional connection with partner
    • Unresolved conflict within a relationship
    • Poor communication of sexual needs
    • Poor sexual technique
    • Lack of trust/infidelity
    • Abuse (sexual, emotional or physical)
    • Addiction issues

    Treatment of anorgasmia depends on its cause. After assessment of your symptoms some of the following treatments will be suggested:

    • Sensate focus
    • Self examination
    • Sex education
    • Communication skills
    • Kegel exercises
    • Masturbation

    The number of consultations to treat anorgasmia can vary quite considerably from woman to woman and is very dependant on the individuals’ commitment to working towards achieving orgasm.

    If you are unsure if I can help with a problem you are experiencing, please email me at enquiries@spg.scot, which is an encrypted account, to discuss further.