Rethinking Female Sexual Dysfunction: Shifting from Assumptions to Redefinition

Objective: Female sexual dysfunction can be diagnosed when women report low sexual desire or arousal, orgasmic difficulties, or sexual pain, along with related distress. However, this conceptualization reflects cultural and clinical assumptions rather than women’s own concerns about their sexual function. The purpose of this personal view article is to highlight limitations in current definitions of female sexual dysfunction and emphasize the gap between clinical criteria and women’s own experiences of female sexual dysfunction. Method: This personal view synthesizes existing literature and conceptual arguments to examine how cultural, clinical, and diagnostic assumptions shape understandings of female sexual dysfunction, and contrasts these with women’s experiences. Results: There is a disconnect between diagnostic criteria and lived experience of female sexual dysfunction. Many women reporting low sexual function do not experience distress, while others report sexual distress despite what might be considered normal sexual function. This disconnect suggests that current understandings of female sexual dysfunction may inadequately capture women’s sexual concerns. Further, the prevailing focus on physical aspects of sex overlooks the emotional, relational, and psychological dimensions of women’s sexuality. Conclusion: There is a need to redefine female sexual dysfunction in a way that avoids pathologizing common and non-distressing experiences among women. Moving forward, clinical definitions must be grounded in what women themselves identify as problematic.