Understanding
Sexual Dysfunction
Addressing sexual health challenges and their psychological impact on individuals and relationships
Understanding
Sexual Dysfunction
Addressing sexual health challenges and their psychological impact on individuals and relationships
Understanding
Sexual Dysfunction
Addressing sexual health challenges and their psychological impact on individuals and relationships
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sexual dysfunction means experiencing persistent difficulties with sexual desire, arousal, or satisfaction that create distress and strain intimate relationships. Whether involving physical challenges like erectile dysfunction or pain during intercourse, or psychological barriers like low libido or difficulty reaching climax, these issues often create a cycle of anxiety, avoidance, and relationship tension.
The experience frequently involves feeling broken or inadequate, particularly when sexual difficulties seem to contradict societal expectations about "normal" sexual function. The psychological impact extends far beyond physical symptoms, affecting self-esteem, intimacy, and partnership dynamics. Many people describe feeling disconnected from their own sexuality, anxious about sexual encounters, or grieving the loss of what their sexual life used to be. The silence and shame surrounding sexual difficulties often prevent people from seeking help, creating isolation and worsening the psychological distress.
Common Symptoms
Persistent lack of sexual desire or interest
Difficulty becoming aroused or maintaining arousal
Pain or discomfort during sexual activity
Difficulty reaching orgasm or climax
Premature or delayed ejaculation
Vaginal dryness or inability to lubricate naturally
Anxiety or panic around sexual activity
Avoidance of intimacy and physical closeness
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sexual dysfunction means experiencing persistent difficulties with sexual desire, arousal, or satisfaction that create distress and strain intimate relationships. Whether involving physical challenges like erectile dysfunction or pain during intercourse, or psychological barriers like low libido or difficulty reaching climax, these issues often create a cycle of anxiety, avoidance, and relationship tension.
The experience frequently involves feeling broken or inadequate, particularly when sexual difficulties seem to contradict societal expectations about "normal" sexual function. The psychological impact extends far beyond physical symptoms, affecting self-esteem, intimacy, and partnership dynamics. Many people describe feeling disconnected from their own sexuality, anxious about sexual encounters, or grieving the loss of what their sexual life used to be. The silence and shame surrounding sexual difficulties often prevent people from seeking help, creating isolation and worsening the psychological distress.
Common Symptoms
Persistent lack of sexual desire or interest
Difficulty becoming aroused or maintaining arousal
Pain or discomfort during sexual activity
Difficulty reaching orgasm or climax
Premature or delayed ejaculation
Vaginal dryness or inability to lubricate naturally
Anxiety or panic around sexual activity
Avoidance of intimacy and physical closeness
What does sex & pornography addiction feel like?
Living with sexual dysfunction means experiencing persistent difficulties with sexual desire, arousal, or satisfaction that create distress and strain intimate relationships. Whether involving physical challenges like erectile dysfunction or pain during intercourse, or psychological barriers like low libido or difficulty reaching climax, these issues often create a cycle of anxiety, avoidance, and relationship tension.
The experience frequently involves feeling broken or inadequate, particularly when sexual difficulties seem to contradict societal expectations about "normal" sexual function. The psychological impact extends far beyond physical symptoms, affecting self-esteem, intimacy, and partnership dynamics. Many people describe feeling disconnected from their own sexuality, anxious about sexual encounters, or grieving the loss of what their sexual life used to be. The silence and shame surrounding sexual difficulties often prevent people from seeking help, creating isolation and worsening the psychological distress.
Common Symptoms
Persistent lack of sexual desire or interest
Difficulty becoming aroused or maintaining arousal
Pain or discomfort during sexual activity
Difficulty reaching orgasm or climax
Premature or delayed ejaculation
Vaginal dryness or inability to lubricate naturally
Anxiety or panic around sexual activity
Avoidance of intimacy and physical closeness
History of Sexual Dysfunction
From taboo subject to integrated medical and psychological treatment approach
Mid 1900s
Sexual difficulties largely considered moral or character failings, with limited medical understanding and significant social stigma preventing open discussion or treatment
1960s-70s
Pioneering research by Masters and Johnson revolutionises understanding of sexual response cycles and introduces behavioural therapy approaches for treating sexual dysfunction
1990s-2000s
Development of medical treatments like Viagra transforms approach to sexual dysfunction, whilst psychological research expands understanding of trauma, anxiety, and relationship factors
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
History of Sexual Dysfunction
From taboo subject to integrated medical and psychological treatment approach
Mid 1900s
Sexual difficulties largely considered moral or character failings, with limited medical understanding and significant social stigma preventing open discussion or treatment
1960s-70s
Pioneering research by Masters and Johnson revolutionises understanding of sexual response cycles and introduces behavioural therapy approaches for treating sexual dysfunction
1990s-2000s
Development of medical treatments like Viagra transforms approach to sexual dysfunction, whilst psychological research expands understanding of trauma, anxiety, and relationship factors
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
History of Sexual Dysfunction
From taboo subject to integrated medical and psychological treatment approach
Mid 1900s
Sexual difficulties largely considered moral or character failings, with limited medical understanding and significant social stigma preventing open discussion or treatment
1960s-70s
Pioneering research by Masters and Johnson revolutionises understanding of sexual response cycles and introduces behavioural therapy approaches for treating sexual dysfunction
1990s-2000s
Development of medical treatments like Viagra transforms approach to sexual dysfunction, whilst psychological research expands understanding of trauma, anxiety, and relationship factors
Present
Modern understanding recognises sex and pornography addiction as serious behavioural addictions, with evidence-based treatments combining therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication for underlying conditions
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sexual dysfunction uses approaches like psychosexual therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based treatments to address both psychological and relational aspects of sexual difficulties. Treatment often combines individual therapy to explore anxiety, trauma, or body image issues with couples therapy to improve communication and intimacy. Therapists work collaboratively with medical professionals when physical factors are involved, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses all contributing elements.
Treatment emphasises reducing performance anxiety, improving body awareness and acceptance, and developing healthy communication about sexual needs and preferences. Many people experience significant improvements within months of beginning therapy, particularly when treatment addresses underlying psychological factors whilst supporting couples in rebuilding intimate connection and sexual confidence.
Benefits of Therapy
Reducing performance anxiety and sexual stress
Addressing underlying trauma or psychological blocks
Improving body image and sexual self-confidence
Enhancing communication about sexual needs and desires
Developing mindfulness and body awareness techniques
Strengthening intimate connection between partners
Learning techniques for managing pain or physical difficulties
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual health and the path to improvement
Are sexual problems common, and should I be worried?
Sexual difficulties are extremely common, affecting most people at some point in their lives. Studies suggest 30-50% of people experience sexual concerns regularly. These issues often have treatable physical, psychological, or relationship-based causes, so seeking professional help is recommended rather than suffering in silence.
Is sexual dysfunction always psychological, or can it be medical?
Sexual dysfunction often involves both physical and psychological factors that interact with each other. Medical conditions, medications, hormonal changes, and physical injuries can cause sexual problems, whilst anxiety, stress, and relationship issues can worsen or maintain them. Comprehensive assessment typically involves both medical and psychological evaluation.
How can couples therapy help with sexual dysfunction?
Couples therapy addresses communication barriers, reduces blame and pressure, and helps partners work together rather than against each other. Many sexual difficulties involve relationship dynamics, performance pressure, or communication problems that couples therapy can effectively address, often alongside individual treatment.
Will I need medical treatment as well as therapy?
This depends on the underlying causes. Some sexual dysfunctions respond well to therapy alone, whilst others benefit from combined medical and psychological treatment. Your therapist and doctor can work together to determine the most effective approach for your specific situation.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sexual dysfunction uses approaches like psychosexual therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based treatments to address both psychological and relational aspects of sexual difficulties. Treatment often combines individual therapy to explore anxiety, trauma, or body image issues with couples therapy to improve communication and intimacy. Therapists work collaboratively with medical professionals when physical factors are involved, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses all contributing elements.
Treatment emphasises reducing performance anxiety, improving body awareness and acceptance, and developing healthy communication about sexual needs and preferences. Many people experience significant improvements within months of beginning therapy, particularly when treatment addresses underlying psychological factors whilst supporting couples in rebuilding intimate connection and sexual confidence.
Benefits of Therapy
Reducing performance anxiety and sexual stress
Addressing underlying trauma or psychological blocks
Improving body image and sexual self-confidence
Enhancing communication about sexual needs and desires
Developing mindfulness and body awareness techniques
Strengthening intimate connection between partners
Learning techniques for managing pain or physical difficulties
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual health and the path to improvement
Are sexual problems common, and should I be worried?
Sexual difficulties are extremely common, affecting most people at some point in their lives. Studies suggest 30-50% of people experience sexual concerns regularly. These issues often have treatable physical, psychological, or relationship-based causes, so seeking professional help is recommended rather than suffering in silence.
Is sexual dysfunction always psychological, or can it be medical?
Sexual dysfunction often involves both physical and psychological factors that interact with each other. Medical conditions, medications, hormonal changes, and physical injuries can cause sexual problems, whilst anxiety, stress, and relationship issues can worsen or maintain them. Comprehensive assessment typically involves both medical and psychological evaluation.
How can couples therapy help with sexual dysfunction?
Couples therapy addresses communication barriers, reduces blame and pressure, and helps partners work together rather than against each other. Many sexual difficulties involve relationship dynamics, performance pressure, or communication problems that couples therapy can effectively address, often alongside individual treatment.
Will I need medical treatment as well as therapy?
This depends on the underlying causes. Some sexual dysfunctions respond well to therapy alone, whilst others benefit from combined medical and psychological treatment. Your therapist and doctor can work together to determine the most effective approach for your specific situation.
How therapy can help
Therapy for sexual dysfunction uses approaches like psychosexual therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based treatments to address both psychological and relational aspects of sexual difficulties. Treatment often combines individual therapy to explore anxiety, trauma, or body image issues with couples therapy to improve communication and intimacy. Therapists work collaboratively with medical professionals when physical factors are involved, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses all contributing elements.
Treatment emphasises reducing performance anxiety, improving body awareness and acceptance, and developing healthy communication about sexual needs and preferences. Many people experience significant improvements within months of beginning therapy, particularly when treatment addresses underlying psychological factors whilst supporting couples in rebuilding intimate connection and sexual confidence.
Benefits of Therapy
Reducing performance anxiety and sexual stress
Addressing underlying trauma or psychological blocks
Improving body image and sexual self-confidence
Enhancing communication about sexual needs and desires
Developing mindfulness and body awareness techniques
Strengthening intimate connection between partners
Learning techniques for managing pain or physical difficulties
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding sexual health and the path to improvement
Are sexual problems common, and should I be worried?
Sexual difficulties are extremely common, affecting most people at some point in their lives. Studies suggest 30-50% of people experience sexual concerns regularly. These issues often have treatable physical, psychological, or relationship-based causes, so seeking professional help is recommended rather than suffering in silence.
Is sexual dysfunction always psychological, or can it be medical?
Sexual dysfunction often involves both physical and psychological factors that interact with each other. Medical conditions, medications, hormonal changes, and physical injuries can cause sexual problems, whilst anxiety, stress, and relationship issues can worsen or maintain them. Comprehensive assessment typically involves both medical and psychological evaluation.
How can couples therapy help with sexual dysfunction?
Couples therapy addresses communication barriers, reduces blame and pressure, and helps partners work together rather than against each other. Many sexual difficulties involve relationship dynamics, performance pressure, or communication problems that couples therapy can effectively address, often alongside individual treatment.
Will I need medical treatment as well as therapy?
This depends on the underlying causes. Some sexual dysfunctions respond well to therapy alone, whilst others benefit from combined medical and psychological treatment. Your therapist and doctor can work together to determine the most effective approach for your specific situation.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Meet our specialists who can help guide your recovery
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
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Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)