Clitoral size and location in relation to sexual function using pelvic MRI.

Area of Science:

• Female sexual health research
• Anatomical correlates of sexual function

Background:

• Female sexual response is complex, influenced by dynamic anatomic mechanisms.
• Orgasm intensity can be modulated by specific anatomical features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between clitoral size and location and female sexual function.
• To evaluate anatomical differences in women experiencing anorgasmia versus those with normal orgasmic function.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study compared 10 women with anorgasmia to 20 orgasmic women.
• Data collected included demographics, sexual function questionnaires (PISQ-12, FSFI, BESAQ), and Short Form Health Survey-12.
• Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to measure clitoral size and location without contrast.

Main Results:

• Anorgasmic women had a significantly smaller clitoral glans area on MRI (P=0.005).
• A greater distance from the clitoral glans and body to the vaginal lumen was observed in anorgasmic subjects (P=0.049 and P=0.008, respectively).
• Increased distance between the clitoris and vagina correlated with poorer sexual function scores (PISQ-12, FSFI, BESAQ).

Conclusions:

• Women with anorgasmia exhibit a smaller clitoral glans compared to women with normal orgasmic function.
• Anatomical findings indicate clitoral components are positioned farther from the vaginal lumen in women with anorgasmia.
• These clitoral anatomical variations may play a role in the pathophysiology of anorgasmia.