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Clitoral hemodynamic changes after a topical application of alprostadil
E F Becher1, A Bechara, A Casabe
1Centro de Diagnóstico Urológico, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina. ebecher@cdu.com.ar
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|September 14, 2001
Summary
Topical alprostadil gel significantly improved blood flow in the clitoris, similar to sexual stimulation. This suggests vasoactive drugs may aid in diagnosing vascular causes of female sexual dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) can have vascular origins.
- Assessing clitoral hemodynamics is crucial for diagnosing FSD.
- Topical vasoactive agents offer a potential therapeutic and diagnostic approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the hemodynamic effects of topical alprostadil on the clitoris.
- To assess the safety and tolerability of topical alprostadil in women.
- To explore the potential of topical alprostadil in the differential diagnosis of FSD.
Main Methods:
- Duplex ultrasonography was used to measure clitoral blood flow.
- 18 women applied 1g of 0.2% alprostadil gel topically.
- Hemodynamic parameters (peak systolic velocity, end diastolic velocity) were assessed before and after application.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant increases in peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity were observed post-application.
- All participants experienced labial and clitoral engorgement.
- 72% reported a sensation of warmth; no systemic side effects were documented.
Conclusions:
- Topical alprostadil gel induces significant local hemodynamic changes in the clitoris.
- These changes mimic those seen during sexual stimulation, supporting its potential diagnostic utility.
- Topical vasoactive drugs may be valuable tools for diagnosing the vascular component of female sexual dysfunction.