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Sexual Disorders Manhattan

Restore Confidence and Intimacy

The topic of sex is a largely taboo subject in our society leading to many issues surrounding it rarely being talked about. As a result, many who have problems with sexual activity may not know how to remedy them. However, sexual well-being is an essential part of every person’s overall experience, and sexual dysfunction is more common than many realize.

Sexual dysfunction is an issue that occurs during sex, hindering your ability to fully enjoy the moment and perform to your desire. This can happen at any point during the sexual response cycle, which consists of excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Sexual dysfunction can be confusing, frustrating, and embarrassing, making it difficult to seek help.

Sexual issues may occur during the initial arousal phase, interfere with performance during sexual activity, or affect satisfaction afterward. These disruptions can lower enjoyment, create relationship conflict, and lead to feelings of shame or emotional distress. In many cases, individuals begin to avoid sexual behaviors altogether, which can worsen the problem over time.

Although each sexual dysfunction has its own characteristics, they share a number of features to qualify for diagnosis. All sexual dysfunctions must have persistent symptoms that last for at least 6 months, cause notable distress in those who experience them, and are not better accounted for by another disorder or factor.According to a study published in Science Direct, about 12% of women report distressing sexual dysfunction, most commonly involving low desire, arousal, or orgasm

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Who is Affected by Sexual Dysfunction?

Sexual dysfunction is common, impacting around 43% of women and 31% of men. It can occur at any age but is more likely to impact people over the age of 40, as age-related health decline is often a factor. However, emerging research is showing an increase in sexual dysfunction for those in emerging adulthood (late teens to early twenties), generally among men who engage in higher-than-average amounts of pornography consumption. It is important to note that all pornography consumption does not lead to sexual dysfunction.

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Symptoms of Sexual Dysfunction

The symptoms of sexual dysfunction vary depending on the characteristics of each particular disorder. Potential symptoms include:

  • Lack of interest in sexual activity

  • The incapability to become aroused

  • Feelings of pain during sexual activity

  • The inability to orgasm or achieve/hold an erection

  • The inability or delay of ejaculation

  • The inability to control when you ejaculate

  • The inability to relax the vaginal muscles enough to have intercourse

  • A lack of vaginal lubrication before or during sexual activity

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Types of Sexual Dysfunction Disorders

The four main types of sexual dysfunctions are sexual desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasm disorders, and sexual pain disorders.

Sexual Desire Disorders

Sexual desire disorders are defined by a lack of emotional desire for intercourse and sexual activity. This can be an overall lack of libido, or it can apply to a particular sexual partner. There are a range of potential roots of sexual desire disorders, but some common causes are pregnancy, fatigue, age, mental health disorders, medications, and a decrease in estrogen/testosterone.

One sexual desire disorder is characterized by the lack of desire for sexual intercourse, which is described as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in men and female sexual interest/arousal disorder in women. This disorder can occur intermittently throughout one’s life or it can be a chronic and continuous condition.

Arousal Disorders

This type of disorder is related to the ability to become physically aroused. It includes the inability to maintain or achieve an erection, a lack of arousal, or a lack of enjoyment during sexual activity. One type of sexual arousal disorder is erectile disorder, also called erectile dysfunction. This is when someone with a penis cannot maintain or achieve an erection sufficient for intercourse. One of the most prevalent causes of erectile disorder is damage to the nerves beside the prostate, which can happen during surgery.

Orgasm Disorders

Orgasm disorders are related to one’s ability to orgasm or ejaculate, including both the complete inability to do so and issues with the timing of orgasm or ejaculation. Some common orgasm disorders include:

  • Delayed ejaculation – the incapacity or extreme difficulty to ejaculate despite sexual arousal and adequate stimulation.

  • Premature ejaculation – ejaculation that happens within one minute or less of beginning penetration. This occurs in all or nearly all instances of sexual intercourse.

  • Anejaculation – the complete inability to orgasm.

  • Retrograde ejaculation – an ejaculation that results in some semen going into the bladder.

  • Anorgasmia or female orgasmic disorder – continuous inability or extreme difficulty to orgasm despite sexual arousal and adequate stimulation. In some cases, those with this disorder have never experienced an orgasm.

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Sexual Pain Disorders

Sexual pain disorders are characterized by pain during sexual intercourse and are mostly experienced by people with vaginas. There are several manifestations of this type of disorder, from pain that occurs throughout intercourse to involuntary muscle spasms that cause pain intermittently. Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) is the most prevalent sexual pain disorder and is a combination of the previously recognized disorders dyspareunia and vaginismus.

The symptoms of GPPPD include pain during vaginal intercourse or attempts, difficulty achieving vaginal penetration, fear/anxiety regarding pain during penetration, and/or a tightening of the pelvic floor muscles during penetration. This disorder can be caused by several factors but is often associated with a history of sexual abuse or a lack of vaginal lubrication.

One factor that contributes to GPPPD is vestibulodynia, a biological disorder involving chronic pain and discomfort outside of the opening of the vagina. Vulvodynia, which is defined by chronic pain that occurs in the vulva, is another factor of this sexual pain disorder.

Common Conditions That Can Lead to Sexual Disorders

Sexual disorders and beyond can be linked to various physical and psychological conditions. Recognizing these connections is important in guiding effective treatment.

Medical and Physical Causes:

  • Diabetes

  • Heart or vascular disease

  • Neurological disorders

  • Hormonal imbalances

  • Kidney or liver failure

Mental and Emotional Causes:

  • Chemical imbalance in the brain

  • Stress and anxiety

  • Relationship issues

  • Depression

  • Body image issues

  • Past sexual trauma or abuse

External Influences:

  • Substance use disorder

  • Medications (especially antidepressants, hormones, and anti-hypertensive drugs)

Diagnosis can be complicated by overlapping symptoms. Consulting clinics specializing in sexual disorders Manhattan residents trust may clarify the root of dysfunction sexual patterns.

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How Sexual Dysfunction Impacts Daily Life

Sexual dysfunction can have far-reaching consequences beyond the bedroom. While often overlooked, its effects are deeply personal and often emotionally distressing.

  1. Relationship Strain

    • Couples may experience decreased intimacy and communication.

    • Trust and satisfaction may deteriorate, especially when one partner feels rejected or misunderstood.

  2. Self-Esteem and Confidence

    • Persistent dysfunction can lead to shame and embarrassment.

    • Patients often describe feeling isolated and uncertain about their sexual function.

  3. Mental Health Decline

    • Frustration around sexual problems can increase anxiety and contribute to depression.

    • Without intervention, individuals may withdraw socially and emotionally.

Sexual wellness is a critical part of a healthy, balanced life. Addressing sexual dysfunctions early improves not only sexual pleasure but also general quality of life.

Available Treatments That Can Help

Treatment for sexual disorders depends on identifying the underlying problem. A multi-disciplinary approach often produces the best outcomes. Clinics in Manhattan commonly offer the following:

1. Medication

  • Switching medications if they are contributing to dysfunction

  • Hormone therapy for patients with imbalances

2. Mechanical Aids

  • Devices such as penile implants or dilators

  • Vacuum devices for improving erectile function

3. Psychotherapy and Sex Therapy

  • Addressing trauma and emotional barriers

  • Techniques like CBT or mindfulness to improve control and comfort

4. Behavioral Treatments

  • Guided self-stimulation

  • Exercises to regain control over sexual response

5. Education and Support

  • Teaching patients about sexual health and common problems

  • Reducing shame and encouraging open communication

Support is available for both men and women struggling with low sexual desire or sexual activity difficulties. You don’t need to suffer in silence.

Therapist listening to male client with sexual disorder during session
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Therapist taking notes during emotional client session

Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction at CBT / EMDR Associates of New York

At CBT / EMDR Associates of New York, we provide structured, evidence-based psychotherapy for individuals and couples dealing with sexual dysfunction. Our licensed clinicians are trained in multiple therapeutic modalities specifically effective in treating sexual concerns, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Targets negative beliefs and anxiety that interfere with sexual desire and satisfaction.

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Helps resolve trauma that can be directly linked to sexual pain, avoidance, or performance issues.

  • Emotion Focused Couple’s Therapy – Supports couples struggling with intimacy or communication around sex.

  • Mindfulness and Trauma-Informed CBT – Reduces performance pressure and increases connection to the body during intimacy.

Sexual Wellness Starts with One Step

Sexual dysfunction is more common than you think, and it's absolutely treatable. At CBT / EMDR Associates of New York, we specialize in the psychological and emotional aspects of sexual health. Our goal is to help you reduce shame, restore connection, and experience a healthier, more fulfilling sex life.

If you're struggling with anxiety, past trauma, or relationship-related sexual issues, our clinicians are here to support you with compassion and clarity. Your care is confidential, structured, and rooted in methods that work.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule your free consultation now.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Emotion Focused Couples Therapy, and Mindfulness. These approaches target the emotional and psychological aspects of sexual dysfunction, including anxiety, trauma, and relationship conflict. Sessions are personalized based on your needs and treatment goals.

  • No, we do not prescribe or manage medications. Our services are psychotherapy-based. If medication is needed, we may recommend coordination with a physician or specialist for medical management alongside therapy.

  • Yes. EMDR is one of the most effective tools for clients dealing with sexual trauma. It helps reprocess traumatic memories that may trigger fear, shame, or physical reactions during sexual activity. Clients often report significant improvements in sexual comfort and confidence after EMDR.

  • Absolutely. We offer Emotion Focused Couple’s Therapy for couples dealing with intimacy problems, mismatched sexual desire, and communication breakdowns. These sessions create a safe environment to rebuild connection and mutual understanding.

  • Yes. While we do not provide medical gynecological care, we address the psychological components of pain disorders such as Vaginismus or Genito-Pelvic pain. Therapy can help reduce fear, tension, and trauma responses contributing to pain during intercourse.