Female sexual dysfunction: principles of diagnosis and therapy

Female sexual dysfunction is a common health problem, affecting approximately 43% of women. Female sexual dysfunction is defined as disorders of libido, arousal, orgasm, and sexual pain that lead to personal distress or interpersonal difficulties. It is frequently multifactorial in etiology, with physiological and psychologic roots. Approaching female sexual dysfunction involves an open discussion with the patient, followed by a thorough physical examination and laboratory testing. Therapy consists of patient and partner education, behavior modification, and may include individualized pharmacotherapy. Ultimately, as awareness and research in the field grows, it is hoped that a better understanding of the physiology and pharmacology of the female sexual response will be achieved.