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Endocrine aspects of female sexual dysfunction
Susan R Davis1, André T Guay, Jan L Shifren
1NHMRC Centre of Clinical Research Excellence, The Jean Hailes Foundation and Monash University, Clayton, Vic, Australia. susan.davis@jeanhailes.org.au
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|January 21, 2006
Summary
Hormonal imbalances can affect female sexual function. While testosterone may improve desire and arousal, more research is needed to establish safe and effective endocrine treatments for sexual dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sexual Medicine
- Women's Health
Background:
- Female sexual function is influenced by various endogenous hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, and prolactin.
- The relationship between hormones and female sexual function is complex, with limited research data available.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish recommendations for diagnosing and treating women experiencing endocrinologic sexual difficulties.
- To provide guidance on the use of hormonal therapies for female sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Expert opinion derived from committee discussions and a comprehensive literature review.
- Evidence-based grading of available publications to inform recommendations.
- Inclusion of multidisciplinary experts from multiple countries.
Main Results:
- Sex steroid insufficiency can lead to urogenital atrophy and negatively impact sexual thoughts.
- Systemic estrogen therapy helps with climacteric symptoms but doesn't specifically improve hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
- Exogenous testosterone shows potential in improving sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction, but its use requires careful patient selection after excluding other causes of HSDD.
Conclusions:
- Further prospective, multi-institutional clinical trials are necessary to define safe and effective endocrine treatments for female sexual dysfunction.
- Individualized hormonal therapy with thorough risk/benefit discussion and careful monitoring is crucial.
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