Androgens in female genital sexual arousal function: a biochemical perspective

Female sexual dysfunction is a highly prevalent, multicausal, and multidimensional medical problem that has a major impact on quality of life and interpersonal relationships. It is hypothesized that genital arousal disorder is caused by diminished arterial blood flow within the hypogastric arterial bed. This hypothesis may explain the pathophysiologic mechanisms in older patients with vascular risk factors, but it does not account for either the prevalence or the mechanisms of arousal disorders seen in young women with no vascular risk factors. Hormonal imbalances may be important contributing factors to the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in female arousal disorders. Androgens modulate the growth and function of female genital sexual organs included the labia, vagina, and clitoris. This article discusses the potential role for androgens in facilitating female genital sexual arousal.