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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
12:38
Three-dimensional Reconstruction of the Vascular Architecture of the Passive CLARITY-cleared Mouse Ovary
Published on: December 10, 2017
PCOS, sexuality, and clitoral vascularisation: a pilot study
Cesare Battaglia1, Rossella E Nappi, Fulvia Mancini
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy. cesare.battaglia@unibo.it
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|December 19, 2008
Summary
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in lean women does not appear to cause depression or sexual dysfunction, despite higher androgen levels. Clitoral size and blood flow remain unaffected, preserving feminine identity and sexual satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Psychoneuroendocrinology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can impact body image, potentially leading to depression and sexual disturbances.
- Obesity and hirsutism are common PCOS symptoms affecting feminine identity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess depression and sexual dysfunction in lean PCOS patients compared to controls.
- To investigate the influence of androgen levels on clitoral volume and vascularization in PCOS.
Main Methods:
- Compared 25 lean PCOS women with 18 healthy controls.
- Utilized ultrasonography, Doppler analysis, hormonal assays, and validated questionnaires (McCoy Female Sexual Function Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory).
Main Results:
- Elevated androgens in PCOS patients were confirmed.
- No significant differences were found in clitoral volume or dorsal clitoral artery vascular resistance between groups.
- Depression and sexual dysfunction scores were similar between PCOS patients and controls.
Conclusions:
- Moderate hirsutism and hyperandrogenism in PCOS may not negatively impact feminine identity.
- Sexual self-worth and satisfaction appear unaffected by these PCOS-related factors in lean women.
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