When it comes to female sexual health in South Africa, honest conversations are long overdue.
After attending a recent webinar on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) hosted by Lady Prelox, a leading Lamelle Pharmaceuticals brand, Independent MediaLifestyle wanted to unpack what real women face every day.
I spoke to Karen Bester, medical training manager at Lamelle, to explore what’s going on behind closed doors, why so many women battle in silence, and how South Africans can take steps toward better, more fulfilling intimate lives.
What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD) or “Candace Syndrome”?
According to Bester, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), sometimes called Candace Syndrome, is more common than you might think.
It’s not just about “not being in the mood”, FSAD means having ongoing trouble getting or staying aroused, even if you want to be intimate. This can look like trouble with lubrication, loss of sensitivity, or struggling to experience orgasm.
Bester explains, “FSAD is a physical challenge; your mind may be ready, but your body just isn’t responding how you’d like.”
Is FSAD the same as low libido? Many people confuse FSAD with low libido (or low sexual desire), but they are not the same. FSAD is about the body’s response, like a car engine that just won’t start, while low libido is a lack of sexual interest, even in your thoughts or fantasies.
Bester adds, “Desire starts in the mind, arousal happens in the body. You can have one without the other, and both can need different solutions.”
Why does sexual desire drop?
Sexual desire can dip for lots of reasons and at any age. While menopause and hormonal changes are common triggers, so are stress, a busy work life, relationship tension, physical health problems, and even becoming a new mom.
Stats from the World Health Organisation show that up to 40% of women globally experience some form of sexual dysfunction during their lifetime.
In South Africa, lifestyle pressures from juggling careers to raising families mean more women are affected than ever. And it’s completely normal for desire to rise and fall through the years.
The reality of orgasm issues
If you have difficulty reaching orgasm, you’re in good company. There are two main types: primary (never having had an orgasm) and secondary (you used to, but now you can’t). Causes range from anxiety and lack of sexual education to hormonal shifts, relationship issues, or medication.
Bester notes, “Women often blame themselves, but orgasm challenges are so common, and there is real help available.”
Pain during sex: dyspareunia explained
Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is often misunderstood or brushed off. It can feel sharp, burning, or like pressure, and might happen at the entrance or deeper inside.
Causes vary from infections and inflammation to lack of lubrication or arousal. Brushing it off can lead to anxiety, avoidance, and relationship strain. It’s not “all in your head”, it’s a real, treatable medical issue.
How is female sexual dysfunction diagnosed?
Unlike a “yes/no” checklist, female sexual dysfunction needs a holistic approach. Doctors look at your medical history, symptoms (present for six months or more), and rule out other medical or mental health conditions.
“It’s about getting the full picture, your body, mind, and life situation all matter.”
Are there effective treatments?
Absolutely! South African women now have access to innovative options like Lady Prelox, a natural daily supplement designed for female intimacy and wellness.
Lady Prelox contains four powerful plant-based ingredients, including Pycnogenol, which improves blood flow (so important for arousal), and amino acids like L-arginine and L-citrulline to support natural lubrication.
Bester says, “Lady Prelox doesn’t interfere with hormones and is ideal for women going through menopause or anyone looking to enhance their sexual wellbeing.”
Simple lifestyle changes like eating balanced meals, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can boost your energy and support healthy sexual function..Too many women feel embarrassed or shy about discussing sexual health.
“Open up to a trusted friend, partner, or healthcare provider. The more we talk, the less taboo it becomes.”
Pregnancy, menopause, and postpartum changes can all affect desire and arousal. Hormonal shifts, physical changes, and lifestyle demands can turn sex into just another task.
Chronic stress, fatigue, and mental health challenges can zap your desire and energy for intimacy. Supporting your mental health is as important as physical health for a happy sex life.
Female sexual dysfunction is common, real, and treatable. South African women deserve to talk about it openly and get support from lifestyle changes to effective supplements.
