Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

(Warning, contains explicit language)

Two weeks ago, we explored libido, and last week we explored response. So now we’ve arrived at the peak of this series! (Sorry, couldn’t resist). Let’s explore orgasms: what’s normal, what’s concerning, and what needs a consult.

This is something most providers are completely comfortable discussing; so while it may feel uncomfortable for you, please know that your functional medicine provider will be happy to work with you on this!

I have a particular bone to pick with Hollywood. Hollywood is great for escapism, for fantasy, for creating romantic scenes, and particularly for portraying the “ideal” or “ultimate” orgasm. You know the scene, right? The woman has the most mind-blowing orgasm on screen, and she and her partner are left speechless at the magic that just occurred. And if you’re like the majority of women in my office, you’re sitting there thinking “I don’t have orgasms like that.” and “What’s wrong with me?”

Forgetting completely, of course, that you went to the movies to escape, not get a reality check.

So let’s dive in. Orgasmic dysfunction falls into three major categories. Take Josie, for example, who falls into what is the most common category I see as a clinician. Josie told me she had a concern about her orgasms, since she thought maybe she wasn’t having them. So here’s what I asked her:

Josie, do you experience sexual desire? Her answer: Yes.

OK during your sexual experience, do you experience some sort of difference between the way you feel at the outset, and the way you feel at the end? Her answer: Yes, actually.

Last question: Josie, are you satisfied at the end of your sexual encounter? Her answer: Yes.

Josie’s problem is NOT that she doesn’t have orgasms. Her problem is that the way her orgasms occur don’t match Hollywood’s portrayal of them! Josie doesn’t actually have a medical problem—she has a perception problem. Her perception was that an orgasm had to look a certain way in order for it to be a satisfying sexual experience. But when we got real about HER experience, she saw clearly that she was having orgasms. Your orgasms will not (and SHOULD NOT) look like anyone else’s!

The second type of orgasmic dysfunction falls into a thoroughly separate category. Take Orly, for example. Her concern was that she was not able to orgasm during intercourse. This my favorite issue to work with, actually, and also involves a Hollywood rant. Interestingly, the introitus (the entry to the vagina) and vagina (where a woman has intercourse) are GEOGRAPHICALLY REMOVED from the clitoris (the largest source of an orgasm). Some women can and do orgasm during vaginal intercourse. However, most women need clitoral stimulation. If your partner is concentrating on the vagina, that’s nice, but is not likely going to bring you to orgasm. So, Orly and I got to talking, and she shared her concern with me. As we explored, we were able to uncover that she was easily able to orgasm with other stimulation, just not solely from vaginal stimulation.

The last category of orgasmic dysfunction stems from an underlying medical or psychiatric cause. Thankfully, it’s much less common than the other two categories! Over time, medical issues such as diabetes can cause peripheral nerve damage, and this nerve damage can affect the nerves leading to the vagina, clitoris, and bladder. Women with diabetes are at risk, and any woman who has diabetes and also experiences orgasmic difficulties should absolutely come in for evaluation, as should any other woman who feels that the sensation in her vagina is decreased. The second cause within this category is trauma.

All types of trauma (emotional, physical, and sexual) can inhibit a woman’s ability to orgasm if the abuse is linked in some way to her sexuality. This also deserves a consultation. There are many phenomenal therapies and support available for women with issues in this category.

The take home message? While there are a few instances in which you really do need to seek medical help, your chances are pretty high that your orgasms, and responses, are perfect just the way they are.

Have a topic you’d like me to cover? Email me directly at [email protected].

Originally published by Huffington Post.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is comprehensive testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, helping clinicians accurately diagnose and treat these complex infections. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood, Urine, or Ticks

COST

may have a $200 copay

INSURANCE

Covered by most insurance.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Galleri® is a multi-cancer early detection test, a blood test that screens for many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic,1,2,3 including those with no recommended screening tests today. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home or in lab.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$999

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This DNA test analyzes a person’s genetic markers to provide insights into their health and wellness price. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Swab

COST

$299

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is a key tool for assessing the impact of long-term exposure to environmental chemicals. By quantitatively measuring 14 select metabolites, this test helps determine an individual’s toxic burden, offering essential data to guide targeted nutritional and detoxification interventions for improved health outcomes. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$129

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

The Hormone and Urinary Metabolites Assessment Profile (HuMapTM) provides a comprehensive overview of steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$199

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a dried urine test for comprehensive hormones to help providers solve complex patient cases. DUTCH is a group of validated tests that provide a complete evaluation of sex and adrenal hormones, including metabolites. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$300

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive stool test that relies on quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, H. pylori, fungi, and more by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$399

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive test that uses blood and urine to evaluate over 125 biomarkers. It provides recommendations for vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and digestive support. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood and Urine

COST

$179 – $439

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$310

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!
I’m Actually Fine! You’re Too Far Away and I’ve Lost My Nerve!

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted