Sexual dysfunctions in both men and women have a number of causes, that inlcude spinal cord or brain injuries, disorders of the circulatory system, hormonal imbalances, certain diseases (including cancers and sexually transmitted diseases), medications such as tranquilizers and antidepressants as well as alcohol or barbituate use, and psychosocial problems, such as communication problems, destructive relationships and childhood or historical traumas.

Given the wide array of causes for sexual dysfunctions, it would stand to reason that you and your wife will need to consider the causes and try to determine if, and which of the possible causes may be impacting her sexual response. Sometimes, a medical doctor can assist in doing a thorough history and work-up in detecting certain causes, along with a sex therapist.

Not knowing the extent of your wife's childhood sexual abuse issues, or if she sustained any physical trauma as a result of it, it is not possible to definitely pinpoint this as the root of the problem, but it is a very common cause of sexual dysfuntions in women.

Is your wife on any medications that could be affecting her libido, such as the above-mentioned categories? Has she sustained any spinal or brain trauma or circulatory injuries that could affect related nerves? How long ago, and how emotionally or physically traumatizing was the childhood sexual abuse? These are some questions you will want to explore with the issue you describe. Also, did she have this problem previous to your relationship, and if so, has it always been present?

Given the variety of issues to consider, you may want to get some assistance in the matter if you are not able to figure it out and resolve it on your own. It is also common for almost every sexually active person to experience some dissatisfaction and problem related to their sexuality over the course of their lives. Some people seek therapy or treatment, while others are able to find satisfaction within their relationships even with any difficulties they may be experiencing.

Due to the fact you are not particularly dissatisfied, you may try to explore it on your own before seeking outside assistance. It is possible though, from what you describe, that there could be a physical cause, due to the numbness your wife is reporting. Multiple sclerorsis is one disease that can cause genital numbness and loss of sensation, although a psychological condition from childhood sexual abuse could also be the culprit. So, I would suggest you to communicate as much as possible with your partner in trying to brainstorm possible causes, and seek therapy in the event you cannot resolve it on your own. There is a lot of literature available on these issues through research-based journals and you may be able to find related reading to the causes on the web as well. Good luck and write back if you find you need more information.

Editor's Note: Also, a note that some women may actually have a difficult time identifying their orgasms. It may be possible that your wife has a physiological orgasm and then experiences numbness following it. Just another option to discuss.
Dr. Kathleen Van Kirk

Reviewed by: Kathleen VanKirk DHS