Patients who complain of symptoms related to a sexual disorder will undergo a complete physical examination. The physician will also compile a thorough medical history of the patient. A psychiatric evaluation that focuses on any fears, anxieties or preferences may also be necessary. Psychological testing may also be performed.

Treatment options vary depending on the nature of the sexual disorder that is suspected. In some cases, a physical problem can be treated through surgery or another medical procedure. Patients whose sexual disorder is the result of illness or disability may find relief through physical therapy or mechanical aids that can be used during sex.

Medications may also be helpful in some instances. Sildenafil became the first oral medication for erectile dysfunction and has been widely touted as a treatment for men who have difficulty maintaining an erection. Since then, other medications have been approved, providing more options for oral therapy. Among oral medications, lubricating gels, hormone creams and hormone replacement therapy have all been used to help treat inadequate vaginal lubrication.

Psychotherapy may also be beneficial for some patients, especially if the source of their symptoms is believed to be psychological in nature. Behavior therapy techniques can help patients who have problems becoming aroused or achieving orgasm. Individual counseling sessions can help patients address feelings of guilt or shame associated with sex, or other psychological problems, such as poor body image.

Couples can attend joint counseling sessions to improve communication problems that may be at the root of sexual disorders.

Treatment approaches for paraphilias include behavior therapy techniques and medication therapy. In some cases, a class of drugs called antiandrogens that drastically lowers the sex drive in males and reduces the frequency of paraphiliac urges may be prescribed. Serotonergic antidepressants may be prescribed for treatment of paraphilias with sexual impulsivity. Patients taking these medications should also receive treatment that includes a specialized sex offender program, group therapy, a 12-step "sexual addiction/compulsion" recovery program or a therapist familiar with paraphilias.