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Sex, hormones and the brain
1Department of Sexology and Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
Understanding human sexual response involves complex interactions between the nervous system and hormones. Clinicians must recognize how hormonal changes affect sexual function in both men and women.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Human Sexuality
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Human sexual response is a complex interplay of biopsychosocial factors.
- Central and peripheral nervous systems modulate stimuli, leading to arousal.
- Neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis are key regulators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between central nervous system processes and the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis in sexual response.
- To describe the hormonal influences on sexual arousability and excitement.
- To outline the impact of hormonal therapies on sexual function.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on sexual response mechanisms.
- Analysis of the roles of neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and hormones.
- Description of hormonal contraception and hormone substitution therapy effects.
Main Results:
- Androgens are primarily linked to sexual arousability and excitement.
- Hormonal therapies can alter circulating sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone levels.
- Endogenous or exogenous hormonal shifts can lead to sexual dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians need to be aware of potential sexual problems arising from hormonal changes.
- Monitoring sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone is crucial in managing sexual health.
- Understanding hormonal influences is vital for addressing sexual dysfunction in clinical practice.