Sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, hormonal activity, emotional state, neural pathways, muscular response, and circulatory functions. Consequently, any disruption at any of these levels can potentially contribute to sexual challenges.  

The causes of sexual dysfunctions are often similar and can encompass:

Psychological Factors: 

• Anxiety, performance anxiety, depression, feelings of guilt, negative body image, self-esteem issues, and heightened stress levels.

• Past sexual abuse or trauma can have a lasting impact on an individual's sexual functioning and mental well-being.

• Sexual orientation or gender identity dysphoria gives rise to struggles with understanding or accepting one's sexual orientation or gender identity and can impact sexual well-being.

Medical Factors:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to their physical symptoms, potential side effects, emotional impact, and transmission fear.

• Medication, notably antidepressants and antipsychotics.

• Hormonal Imbalances: irregular hormonal levels, encompassing hormones like testosterone, serotonin, or thyroid hormones.

• Gynecological conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Neurological Conditions: conditions such as multiple sclerosis or damage to the neural pathways.

• Pelvic conditions: hemorrhoids and surgical procedures involving the pelvis, including some gynecological surgeries in people with vaginas and penises (e.g. prostate surgery, hysterectomy).

• Age-related changes to the body: body changes after menopause in people with vaginas or later in life such as vaginal dryness.

Lifestyle factors:

• Alcohol or substance consumption: Drug usage, excessive alcohol intake, and smoking can detrimentally affect sexual function.

• Sedentary lifestyle: affects physical and emotional well-being.

Interpersonal factors:

• Relationship conflicts: relationship problems, unresolved conflicts, or a lack of emotional intimacy.

• Communication issues: poor communication with a partner about sexual desires or needs.

• Cultural or religious factors: significant impact by shaping societal norms, beliefs, and values that influence an individual's sexual attitudes, behaviors, and expectations.