Sparks is a sex-positive psychoeducational group tackling shame and Female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD).

While participating in the group and discussing your sexual concerns, you’ll feel less alone and be supported by other participants.

You will learn about your own body, dispel myths about female sexuality and stereotypes, identify your own sexual needs, and discover practical and positive ways to increase your sexual enjoyment.

Objectives of group:

1. Help participants identify and explore the underlying causes of their shame, whether they stem from cultural, societal, familial, or personal factors.

2. Provide accurate and comprehensive information about sexuality, helping participants develop a better understanding of their own bodies, desires, and boundaries.

3. Introduce mindfulness practices and self-compassion techniques to help participants stay present, reduce anxiety, and develop a kinder relationship with themselves.

4. Shift the focus towards celebrating sexual agency and autonomy, encouraging participants to take ownership of their sexual experiences and choices.

FAQS:

In short, FSAD is a treatable condition where you have a hard time getting aroused, even if you want to. Asexuality is a sexual orientation where you don't feel sexual attraction, but it's not something that needs to be "fixed" or treated—it's just a different way of experiencing relationships.

What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder? Is it the same as being Asexual?

Asexuality

• What It Is: Asexuality is a sexual orientation, like being straight, gay, or bisexual, but it means you don't feel sexual attraction to other people. Some asexual people are still interested in romantic relationships, but they don't feel the need for sexual intimacy.

• Why It Happens: Asexuality isn't a medical condition or a problem; it's just a different way some people are. It's not caused by trauma or medical issues—it's a natural part of who you are.

• How It Feels: If you're asexual, you might not feel like you're missing out. You might have fulfilling relationships, even if they're not sexual. Some asexual people might have sex for different reasons (like in a relationship), but it's not because they feel sexually attracted to others.

• How to Navigate It: Asexuality doesn't need treatment. What helps is finding a supportive community where you can feel understood and accepted. This might involve connecting with other asexual people, learning more about asexuality, and sharing with your partner (if you have one) so they understand where you're coming from. Also, asexuality is not the opposite of hypersexuality, which is a common misnomer.

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)

• What It Is: FSAD is when someone with female anatomy has trouble getting aroused or staying aroused during sexual activity, even though they want to be. This can mean not getting physically ready for sex (like not having enough natural lubrication) or not feeling turned on, even when you'd expect to.

• Why It Happens: There can be many reasons for FSAD, like hormone changes, health issues, side effects from medication, stress, relationship problems, or past trauma.

• How It Feels: If you have FSAD, you might feel frustrated, stressed, or even distant from your partner because you're not enjoying sex the way you want to.

• What You Can Do About It: FSAD is treatable. Some common treatments include therapy (like counseling or sex therapy), medication, hormone treatments, or other approaches to address the underlying causes. The goal is to help you feel comfortable and enjoy sexual activity again.