Women’s sexuality
Sexual response in women is a complex combination of emotional and physical stimuli. We are significantly affected by the early messages we received from our family, or by subconscious religious or cultural beliefs.
From a very early age we are bombarded with representations and images of what our bodies should look like and how we should act sexually. Most of these ideals are far from realistic or indeed healthy, but they have a huge impact on our expectations and self-image, often to our detriment.
Unless we free ourselves of these unrealistic aspirations it’s highly unlikely that we will truly enjoy sex. However with exploration and experimentation, and a pinch of open-mindedness, we can find ways to enjoy it for the great gift it is, both to ourselves and our relationships.
There is a huge amount that we are beginning to understand about women's sexual response, including a complete physiological understanding of the way our bodies work and how childbirth, illnesses, medication, surgery, hormonal changes and aging may affect a woman's sexual experience. More and more research has been done in this area in recent years and we are becoming more knowledgeable daily.
For any number of reasons, and at any time in her life, a woman may feel that her sex life isn't as satisfying as it could be. This might be because she doesn’t have much desire for sex, or because although sexually excited she doesn't become physically aroused or lubricated. She may never have had an orgasm, is finding it increasingly more difficult to have them, or they have stopped altogether. Intercourse may be physically painful, difficult or just not pleasant. She may find her interest is out of sync with her partner, or feel there is something amiss in their emotional bond. There can be any number of reasons, physical or psychological (or a combination), as to why a woman may feel that she doesn't have a full and satisfying sex life.
It’s important to remember that everyone's sex life is individual and there is no objective standard that every woman or man needs to meet. If your sex life works for you and your partner you shouldn’t worry about social dictates or what others are doing. If however, you feel dissatisfied with your sex life in any way, you may want to consider exploring the causes.
Dr. Ailine Zoldbrod, author of 'How Your Childhood Shaped Your Sexual Life and What to Do About It' has an excellent site with loads of information especially about the balancing act that women need to be so good at!
http://www.sexsmart.com/index.html
Also see The Women's Sexual Health Foundation
http://www.twshf.org/
