[Women's sexual function through sexual response models: From DSM-IV to DSM-5].

Area of Science:

• Human Sexuality and Sexual Health
• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Past DSM classifications for women's sexual dysfunctions relied on expert opinion, not empirical data.
• Previous models assumed a universal, linear sexual response cycle (e.g., Masters & Johnson, Kaplan) for both sexes.
• Rosemary Basson's circular model proposed overlapping stages and de-emphasized spontaneous desire as the sole initiator.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on human sexual response models.
• To analyze the evolution of these models, including linear and circular frameworks.
• To critically evaluate the alignment of current DSM-5 classifications with these scientific models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on sexual response models.
• Comparative analysis of linear (Masters & Johnson, Kaplan) and circular (Basson) models.
• Examination of the theoretical underpinnings of DSM-IV and DSM-5 sexual dysfunction classifications.

Main Results:

• Linear models present a sequential progression of sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and resolution.
• Circular models allow for overlapping stages and acknowledge non-desire-initiated sexual activity.
• DSM-5 adopted a classification based on the circular model, though universal applicability remains debated.

Conclusions:

• Sexual response is complex and may not fit a single, universal linear or circular model for all individuals.
• The DSM-5's reliance on the circular model requires further validation across diverse populations and lifespans.
• Continued research is essential for a comprehensive understanding and accurate classification of sexual function and dysfunction.