Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem occurring during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents an individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity.
Related terms
Erectile Disorder: This is a specific type of sexual dysfunction where an individual has consistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.
Female Orgasmic Disorder: Another specific type of sexual dysfunction, this disorder is characterized by delays in, infrequency of, or absence of orgasm after ample sexual stimulation.
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: This disorder involves a lack or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity causing significant distress or interpersonal difficulties.