FSIAD is a sexual dysfunction that affects up to 40% of women in every age group and is characterized by a lack of sexual interest and genital arousal, leading to considerable female distress and impairment in intimate relationships. Long considered controversial, treatment modalities for FSIAD have, more traditionally, centered on medication and/or psychotherapy. Interest in using mindfulness-based interventions to treat FSIAD, however, has increased recently. The present paper critiques effectiveness, benefits, and limitations of the mindful approach in treating FSIAD and its potential impact on the sexual well-being of women.
What is a Mindful Approach?
Mindfulness is a practice of being present and aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. It involves paying attention to the present moment and accepting it without trying to change or control it. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are a type of psychotherapy that incorporates mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, to promote self-awareness and emotional regulation.
MBIs have been found to be effective in treating various mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. More recently, researchers have explored the potential benefits of MBIs in treating sexual dysfunctions, including FSIAD.
Effectiveness of Mindful Approach in Treating FSIAD
Several studies have shown promising results in using MBIs to treat FSIAD. A 2018 meta-analysis of 10 studies found that MBIs significantly improved sexual function and desire in women with FSIAD. Another study compared the effectiveness of mindfulness-based sex therapy (MBST) with traditional sex therapy in treating FSIAD and found that both approaches were equally effective in improving sexual function. However, MBST showed more significant improvements in reducing sexual distress and increasing sexual satisfaction.
Benefits of a Mindful Approach
a. Present-Moment Focus and Acceptance:
One of the primary benefits of MBIs in treating FSIAD is their emphasis on the present moment and acceptance of one’s thoughts and feelings. Women with FSIAD often experience negative self-talk, such as shame, guilt, and self-doubt, which can contribute to sexual dysfunction. MBIs can help individuals to become more aware of these thoughts and emotions and learn to accept them without judgment, leading to a reduction in sexual distress. By focusing on the present moment, women can shift their attention away from past experiences or future concerns and instead focus on the sensations and experiences of the present. This shift in focus can help to reduce anxiety and stress associated with sexual activity and increase feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.
b. Improved Self-Awareness and Emotional Regulation:
MBIs can also improve self-awareness and emotional regulation, which are essential factors in sexual desire and arousal. Women with FSIAD often struggle to identify and express their sexual desires and needs, leading to sexual dysfunction. MBIs can help individuals become more attuned to their bodies and sensations, allowing them to better understand their sexual desires and needs. By improving self-awareness, women can communicate their desires and needs more effectively to their partners, leading to increased sexual satisfaction.
Additionally, MBIs can improve emotional regulation, which is critical in managing negative emotions associated with sexual activity. Women with FSIAD often experience shame, guilt, and self-doubt, which can contribute to sexual dysfunction. By learning to regulate these emotions, women can reduce sexual distress and improve their sexual function.
Limitations of a Mindful Approach
While MBIs have shown promising results in treating FSIAD, they do have some limitations. One of the main limitations is the lack of research comparing MBIs to other forms of treatment, such as medication or traditional psychotherapy. More research is needed to establish the effectiveness of MBIs compared to other treatment options.
Additionally, MBIs may not be suitable for all women with FSIAD. Some women may find it challenging to engage in mindfulness practices, and it may not be a suitable treatment option for those with severe mental health conditions.
Impact on Women’s Sexual Well-being
FSIAD can have a significant impact on a woman’s sexual well-being, leading to distress, relationship difficulties, and a decrease in quality of life. A mindful approach to treating FSIAD can not only improve sexual function but also have a positive impact on emotional well-being and overall quality of life. By learning to be more present and accepting of their sexuality, women can experience a sense of empowerment and control over their sexual desires and needs.
Conclusion
Mindfulness in the treatment of FSIAD could be quite a promising approach to improving sexual function and desire in women. Being a present-moment, inclusive approach, it helps women move beyond negative thoughts and feelings surrounding their sexuality. This would still require further study to prove effectiveness in relation to other treatment options, and it would not work for everyone. It is, however, worthy to note that mindfulness practices can have a positive effect on the sexual well-being and quality of life of women with FSIAD. This warrants further studies into MBIs for their basic understanding of the potential of this technique as a treatment modality for the disorder.
