From arousal to awareness: demystifying Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (Candace Syndrome)
Your enjoyment of sex is just as important as your partner's.
Image: Pixabay
When it comes to female sexual health in South Africa, honest conversations are long overdue.
After attending a recent webinar on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) hosted by Lady Prelox, a leading Lamelle Pharmaceuticals brand, Independent MediaLifestyle wanted to unpack what real women face every day.
I spoke to Karen Bester, medical training manager at Lamelle, to explore what's going on behind closed doors, why so many women battle in silence, and how South Africans can take steps toward better, more fulfilling intimate lives.
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What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD) or 'Candace Syndrome'?
According to Bester, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), sometimes called Candace Syndrome, is more common than you might think.
It's not just about 'not being in the mood', FSAD means having ongoing trouble getting or staying aroused, even if you want to be intimate. This can look like trouble with lubrication, loss of sensitivity, or struggling to experience orgasm.
Bester explains, 'FSAD is a physical challenge; your mind may be ready, but your body just isn't responding how you'd like.'
Is FSAD the same as low libido? Many people confuse FSAD with low libido (or low sexual desire), but they are not the same. FSAD is about the body's response, like a car engine that just won't start, while low libido is a lack of sexual interest, even in your thoughts or fantasies.
Bester adds, 'Desire starts in the mind, arousal happens in the body. You can have one without the other, and both can need different solutions.'
Unlike male sexual dysfunction, diagnosing female sexual dysfunction isn't always straightforward.
Image: Саша Соколова/pexels
Why does sexual desire drop?
Sexual desire can dip for lots of reasons and at any age. While menopause and hormonal changes are common triggers, so are stress, a busy work life, relationship tension, physical health problems, and even becoming a new mom.
Stats from the World Health Organisation show that up to 40% of women globally experience some form of sexual dysfunction during their lifetime.
In South Africa, lifestyle pressures from juggling careers to raising families mean more women are affected than ever. And it's completely normal for desire to rise and fall through the years.
The reality of orgasm issues
If you have difficulty reaching orgasm, you're in good company. There are two main types: primary (never having had an orgasm) and secondary (you used to, but now you can't). Causes range from anxiety and lack of sexual education to hormonal shifts, relationship issues, or medication.
Bester notes, 'Women often blame themselves, but orgasm challenges are so common, and there is real help available.'
Pain during sex: dyspareunia explained
Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is often misunderstood or brushed off. It can feel sharp, burning, or like pressure, and might happen at the entrance or deeper inside.
Causes vary from infections and inflammation to lack of lubrication or arousal. Brushing it off can lead to anxiety, avoidance, and relationship strain. It's not 'all in your head', it's a real, treatable medical issue.
How is female sexual dysfunction diagnosed?
Unlike a 'yes/no' checklist, female sexual dysfunction needs a holistic approach. Doctors look at your medical history, symptoms (present for six months or more), and rule out other medical or mental health conditions.
'It's about getting the full picture, your body, mind, and life situation all matter.'
One of the biggest barriers to better sexual health is stigma.
Image: cottonbro studio /pexels
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