Approximately four out of 10 adult women suffer from some type of sexual problem, according to new research published in Obstetrics & Gynecology.

A total of 32,000 women aged 18 and older answered questions about their libido and sex lives. Around 39 percent said they had low desire, one-quarter had difficulties with arousal and 21 percent reported problems achieving an orgasm.

However, only 12 percent of respondents said that their sexual problem causes them distress.

Commenting on the findings, obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Lisa Jones of Greater New Bedford Community Health Center suggested that the research actually presents good news.

“What the study says is that bothersome sexual dysfunction is rarer than previously thought,” she explained.

Women should remember that sexual health is “a spectrum” and that desire and response can differ from person to person, she added.

Respondents over 65 were the most likely to report sexual difficulties, but they were also less likely to say they were distressed about them.

Some women who are unhappy with their libido choose to take nutritional supplements to address the situation.