Some women have recently been telling of a condition that exists and is called ‘Dead Vagina Syndrome’ or DVS. The term flooded into popular culture and online forums; since then, a lot of misinterpretations and fears began building up among the female fraternity. While some women take it to be a real health issue, others would oppose that fact. In this paper, we shall be reviewing the evidence and arguments offered with respect to DVS so as to establish whether it is something that is real or it’s just a social construct.
What is ‘Dead Vagina Syndrome’?
DVS is a term used to describe a condition where a woman experiences a loss of sensation or pleasure in her vagina during sexual activity. It is also referred to as ‘sexual anesthesia’ or ‘sexual numbness.’ This condition is said to be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, psychological issues, and even a lack of sexual attraction to one’s partner.
History of DVS
The term ‘dead vagina syndrome’ was first coined in the early 2000s by a sex therapist, Dr. Laura Berman. She described it as a condition where women felt a ‘numbness’ or ‘deadness’ in their vagina during sex. The term gained popularity when it was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show in 2009. Since then, it has been widely discussed in online forums and social media, often causing panic and fear among women.
Is DVS a Real Thing?
There is no doubt that women can experience a loss of sensation or pleasure during sexual activity. However, the term ‘dead vagina syndrome’ is not recognized by the medical community as a legitimate medical condition. There is no scientific evidence to support its existence, and it is not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals.
The Myth of ‘Dead Vagina Syndrome’
The idea of ‘dead vagina syndrome’ has been heavily criticized by medical professionals and sex therapists. They argue that the term is misleading and stigmatizing, as it suggests that there is something wrong with a woman’s body or sexual response. It also perpetuates the harmful myth that women are passive and uninterested in sex, and that their pleasure is solely dependent on their partner’s performance.
Moreover, many experts believe that DVS is a social construct created by the media and popular culture. It is often used as a marketing tool to sell products and treatments, such as vaginal rejuvenation procedures or expensive supplements, to ‘cure’ this supposed condition. This not only preys on women’s insecurities but also reinforces unrealistic beauty standards and the notion that a woman’s worth is tied to her sexual desirability.
Possible Explanations for Loss of Sexual Sensation
While DVS may not be a real medical condition, it is crucial to acknowledge that women can experience a loss of sexual sensation. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, fatigue, relationship issues, and psychological issues like anxiety or depression. It can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as antidepressants or birth control pills.
Treatment and Support for Women Experiencing Loss of Sexual Sensation
Medical and Therapeutic Support: The first step in addressing the loss of sexual sensation is to seek support from a medical professional or a sex therapist. These professionals can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the loss of sexual sensation, such as medical conditions, medication side effects, or hormonal imbalances (Maserejian et al., 2010). For example, women with diabetes are at higher risk for sexual dysfunction due to nerve damage and reduced blood flow, while women on certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antihypertensives, may experience reduced sexual sensation as a side effect (Basson, 2001). In such cases, medication adjustments may be necessary to address the underlying issue.
In addition to medical interventions, therapy can be an effective treatment option for women experiencing loss of sexual sensation. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT) have been shown to improve sexual sensations and overall sexual function (Brotto & Basson, 2014). CBT helps women address negative thought patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to the loss of sexual sensation, while MBT helps women increase their awareness and sensitivity to bodily sensations during sexual activity (Brotto & Basson, 2014).
Communication with Partners: Another critical aspect of addressing the loss of sexual sensation is open communication with partners. Women should feel comfortable expressing their sexual needs and desires, as well as discussing any difficulties they may be experiencing. Partners can play a supportive role in addressing the loss of sexual sensation, providing emotional support and understanding (Brotto et al., 2016).
Additionally, partners can participate in therapy sessions, allowing them to gain a better understanding of the underlying issues and the most effective strategies for addressing them (Brotto et al., 2016). Couples therapy may also be beneficial, as it addresses relationship issues that may be contributing to the loss of sexual sensation and focuses on improving communication, building trust, and enhancing intimacy (Brotto et al., 2016).
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no such thing as ‘dead vagina syndrome.’ It is a product of sociological structuring, further perpetuated through popular culture and media. Although women can also lose their sexual sensation, it doesn’t help or clarify anything to call it ‘dead vagina.’ Instead, we need to open up an understanding environment whereby women can feel free to reach out for help and address the real issues.
