“A consistent finding in psychology is that women, on average, are less interested in sex than men,” says an article in Psychology Today. Whether you agree or not with the finding, here are some of the reasons for it.
Pain During Sex
Women are more likely to experience pain during intercourse than men. Without getting too graphic, since women are the ones being penetrated during sex, that can cause a higher probability of pain versus men who don’t experience a bodily part being inserted.
Here are some conditions women may experience that can cause increasing pain.
Pelvic floor dysfunction, which the Cleveland Clinic explains can occur when “muscles in the base of the pelvis don’t relax normally” can lead to painful sex. They reassure that it is common and can be treated through physical therapy and biofeedback treatment, which is a therapeutic method.
Changes in estrogen levels can also cause pain for women. Whether it’s breastfeeding or menopause, hormonal changes can lead to vaginal dryness causing a burning sensation during intercourse. This may be helped by hormonal treatments or medication and even lubricants.
Sexual History
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, approximately 81% of women nationwide have experienced sexual harrassment and/or sexual assault at some point in their lives. Being a victim of sexual abuse can impact your libido and lower your desires to initiate sex. This is especially true when it comes to casual sex with someone you’re not romantically involved with, but can still be the case with your significant other, even if they’ve never abused you sexually. Therapy is highly recommended in these situations so that you can talk through your trauma with a licensed professional.
Equality in Foreplay
The article in Psychology Today reveals that men tend to think of sex as “he gets an orgasm, and she gets the “pleasure” of having pleased him,” which is far too often not the case. Partners may lack the understanding of the female anatomy and “the mechanics of how the female orgasm works”. Communication is key. Let your partner know your sexual desires and finding ways for both of you to be pleasured. Dr. Pelin Batur, a women’s health specialist, suggests adding sex toys to your typical routine of intercourse, saying, “There’s no shame in that game.”
She goes on to say, “Sex drives have a gas pedal and a brake pedal, and the speed is going to vary throughout your life.” So just be patient with yourself.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/talking-apes/202209/why-women-dont-enjoy-sex-much-men
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554
