Excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution- these are the phases of the human sexual response cycle identified by Masters and Johnson in 1966. To have them all in good working order, in theory, equals a healthy satisfying sex life.

..So, what gets them out of synch?

The big picture here includes Mechanical Factors (muscle function, soft tissue and joint mobility), Physiological Factors (hormones, cardiovascular health, autonomic nervous system balance) and Psychological Factors (sexual identity sexual relationship).

MECHANICAL FACTORS

The pelvic floor muscle strength, endurance and speed of contraction are a primary contributor to vaginal receptivity, responsiveness, and orgasmic muscular response. Also considered is muscle underfunction or over function.

The soft tissue extensibility contributes to pain free vaginal penetration. Females who do not tolerate wearing tampons or having gynecological exams are usually challenged in this area and benefit from gentle progressive dilator therapy.

Joint mobility is necessary to have intercourse without hip or back pain.

PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS

Hormone fluctuations during the life cycle are known to directly affect libido and responsiveness. These are largely managed by your medical professional, however, there are some nutritional considerations that have proven effective.

Cardiovascular health directly affects your endurance and ability to sustain stimulating sexual activity sufficient to induce an orgasmic response. Cardiovascular health also determines your ability to achieve a clitoral erection.

Autonomic nervous system balance governs your "fight or flight" and "rest and digest" switching station or command center. You can flip from one to the other with a mere anxious thought. When you're in "fight or flight" mode, your body shunts the majority of blood flow to your thighs, lungs, brain and eyes to hasten a quick get away from danger. Notice the blood is nowhere near your genitals. Without it your vaginal tissues will be less extensible and dry.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS 

This is a discipline all its own which is masterfully navigated by a specialized branch of psychology. These specialists are called Sex Therapists.

HOW DO YOU FIX IT

The treatment includes addressing all the factors contributing to the problem, mechanical, soft tissue, joint mobility, muscle function and neurological. These are determined by your history and examination. Treatments will include muscle function balancing, pain modulation, gentle sequential vaginal stretching if indicated and autonomic nervous system balancing. Nutritional support will also be recommended.