Many people are confused by the distinction between sexual arousal disorder and sexual desire disorders in women. This is not surprising, in part because the symptoms of one disorder will often appear when the other disorder is the primary condition. There is rarely confusion about men’s desire and arousal, because their signals are different: a man’s desire for sex arises from a belief or emotion, whereas his arousal is signaled by an erection. The two almost always occur together in an integrated way.

In women the situation is more complicated. Studies have shown that a woman can demonstrate the physiological signs of arousal, such as vaginal swelling, lubrication, and increased responsiveness, yet experience no sexual excitement mentally or subjectively. Similarly, a woman can be “turned on” subjectively or cognitively when her body reveals no physical evidence of sexual excitement.

Some women report having a normal desire for sex with their partners, but great difficulty becoming aroused or getting “turned on.” They also report having difficulty staying aroused or maintaining their focus long enough to reach orgasm. If this condition persists, it can lead to problems with sexual desire, since the sex act eventually becomes a source of frustration rather than one of pleasure.
Women who have diabetes or multiple sclerosis or who are transitioning through menopause all seem to have a higher prevalence of arousal problems than other women. Female sexual arousal disorders are frustrating conditions, but with a good sexual medicine expert and some patience, women are often able to reach a satisfying resolution to the problem.