[Review] S3xual Therapy: Empowering Women’s S3xual Health and Well-being -By Caleb Onah

In a small town nestled by the shimmering shores in Makurdi, Benue State there lived a woman named Emma (Not real name). Behind her radiant smile as she walked into my counselling room, Emma hid a secret burden: a profound sexual dysfunction that cast a dark shadow over her life. Emma’s relationships suffered as intimacy became a daunting challenge.

During one of our session, I asked if she could share this with the world, in which she obliged, it was discovered that, feelings of shame and inadequacy consumed her, breeding insecurities that eroded her self-esteem. The bedroom, once a place of passion, became a battleground of disappointment and frustration.

Her world slowly crumbled, and she usually withdrew from the vibrant tapestry of life. The whispers of her friends’ romantic escapades only served to magnify her pain. This is one of thousands of stories I listened to during my psychosocial sexual section with both single and married women.

Sexual health and well-being are essential aspects of overall human health, and it is vital to address them openly and inclusively. While discussions around sexual therapy often focus on men, it is important to acknowledge that women can also benefit greatly from sexual therapy.

By recognising and addressing women’s sexual concerns and providing appropriate therapeutic interventions, we can empower our women to enhance their sexual satisfaction, overcome difficulties, and achieve a fulfilling and healthy sexual life. Historically, discussions around women’s sexuality have been taboo or neglected.

This lack of open dialogue has contributed to the perpetuation of myths, misconceptions, and stereotypes surrounding women’s sexual health. Many women have experienced challenges in their sexual lives but may feel hesitant or ashamed to seek help due to societal pressures or stigma.

However, just as men seek therapy for sexual issues, it is crucial to create an environment where women feel comfortable and supported in seeking sexual therapy.

It is important to know that, women’s sexual concerns can encompass a wide range of issues, including low libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), sexual trauma, body image issues, and relationship difficulties.

These concerns can significantly impact a woman’s self-esteem, quality of life, and intimate relationships. Sexual therapy provides a safe space for women to explore these concerns, understand the underlying causes, and work towards effective solutions. One of the primary goals of sexual therapy for women is to address and overcome sexual dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunctions can manifest in various ways, such as inhibited desire, arousal disorders, inability to orgasm (anorgasmia), or painful sex.

These issues may be caused by physical factors, psychological factors, or a combination of both. A skilled sexual therapist can help identify the root causes and develop personalised treatment plans to address them.

In the realm of physical factors, women may experience hormonal imbalances, chronic health conditions, or medication side effects that can affect their sexual health. A sexual therapist can collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care and address any underlying medical concerns.

Furthermore, sexual therapy can help women explore and understand their bodies, facilitating a stronger connection between physical sensations and pleasure.

Psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, and past traumas, can significantly impact a woman’s sexual experiences.

Sexual therapy offers a supportive and non-judgmental environment for women to explore and process these psychological factors.

Through various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and sensate focus exercises, women can develop coping strategies, overcome negative thought patterns, and rebuild a healthy and positive relationship with their sexuality. Sexual therapy can also be valuable for women who have experienced sexual trauma.

Traumatic experiences can have a profound impact on a person’s sexuality, leading to issues such as fear, flashbacks, dissociation, or avoidance.

A sexual therapist trained in trauma-informed care can provide a safe and gentle space for women or females to address these experiences, work through their emotions, and gradually reclaim their sexual autonomy.

Beyond addressing specific sexual concerns, sexual therapy can also focus on enhancing communication and intimacy within relationships.

Open and honest communication is vital for maintaining a healthy sexual relationship. A sexual therapist can guide couples or individuals through effective communication techniques, help to understand each other’s needs and desires, and promote emotional intimacy.

By addressing relationship dynamics, sexual therapy can strengthen bonds and improve overall relationship satisfaction. It is important to note that sexual therapy is not solely focused on resolving problems. It can also serve as a means for personal growth and exploration of one’s sexuality.

In a society like Nigeria that often places unrealistic expectations and pressures on women’s sexuality, sexual therapy can provide a liberating space for women to embrace their desires, preferences, and fantasies without judgment or shame.