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Schmidt NM, Hennig J, Munk AJL. Interplay between sexual excitation and inhibition: impact on sexual function and neural correlates of erotic stimulus processing in women. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1386006. [PMID: 38813468 PMCID: PMC11133591 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1386006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background As outlined by the dual control model (DCM), individual differences in the regulation of sexual arousal following sexual stimulation depend on two distinct neurophysiological processes: sexual excitation (SE) and sexual inhibition (SI). Although associations with sexual function, behavior, and cue processing have been demonstrated in previous research, underlying neural correlates remain insufficiently explored. Moreover, interactive effects of SE/SI as proposed by the DCM, as well as factors impacting SE/SI properties, such as the use of oral contraceptives (OCs), have not received adequate attention in existing research. Methods 90 healthy, sexually active women (n = 51 using OCs, n = 39 naturally cycling) completed an Emotional-Picture-Stroop-Paradigm (EPSP) while a 64-channel EEG was recorded. LPP amplitudes toward erotic and neutral stimuli were consecutively computed as a marker of motivational salience and approach motivation. Additionally, women provided self-reports of SE/SI and sexual function. Moderation analyses were performed to assess interactive effects of SE/SI in predicting LPP amplitudes and sexual function. Results Sexual function was negatively associated with SI levels but unrelated to SE. Higher SI was associated with reduced LPP amplitudes in response to erotic stimuli. This negative association was, however, attenuated for women high in SE, suggesting interactive effects of SE/SI. Furthermore, women using OCs reported lower SE compared to naturally cycling women. Conclusion The observed findings provide additional psychophysiological evidence supporting the DCM and underscore the relevance of interactive SE/SI effects in stimulus processing and approach motivation. They also highlight the possible impact of OCs on psychosexual variables that warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norina M. Schmidt
- Department of Differential and Biological Psychology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Janssen E, Bancroft J. The Dual Control Model of Sexual Response: A Scoping Review, 2009-2022. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:948-968. [PMID: 37267113 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2219247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The Dual Control Model proposes that sexual arousal and related processes are dependent on the balance between sexual excitation and sexual inhibition, and that individuals vary in their propensity for these processes. This scoping review provides an overview and discussion of the questionnaires used to measure the propensities for sexual excitation and inhibition, their translation and validation in other languages, and their application in empirical research on topics ranging from sexual desire and arousal, sexual (dys)function, sexual risk taking, asexuality, hypersexuality, and sexual aggression. A total of 152 papers, published between 2009 and 2022 and identified using online databases, were included in this review. The findings, consistent with those reviewed by Bancroft et al. (2009), suggest that sexual excitation is particularly relevant to sexual desire and responsivity and predictive of asexuality and hypersexuality. Sexual inhibition plays a role in sexual dysfunction. sexual risk taking, and sexual aggression, although often in interaction with sexual excitation. Suggestions for the further development of the model and for future studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Janssen
- Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
- The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - John Bancroft
- Horspath, Oxfordshire, UK
- The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Komisaruk B, del Cerro MCR, Goldstein I. A neurologic excitation/inhibition “faucet model” for orgasm and pain. Sex Med Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qeac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Komisaruk BR, Rodriguez del Cerro MC. Orgasm and Related Disorders Depend on Neural Inhibition Combined With Neural Excitation. Sex Med Rev 2022; 10:481-492. [PMID: 37051963 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prevalent models of sexual desire, arousal and orgasm postulate that they result from an excitatory process, whereas disorders of sexual desire, arousal and orgasm result from an inhibitory process based on psychosocial, pharmacological, medical, and other factors. But neuronal excitation and active neuronal inhibition normally interact at variable intensities, concurrently and continuously. We propose herein that in conjunction with neuronal excitation, neuronal inhibition enables the generation of the intense, non-aversive pleasure of orgasm. When this interaction breaks down, pathology can result, as in disorders of sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm, and in anhedonia and pain. For perspective, we review some fundamental behavioral and (neuro-) physiological functions of neuronal excitation and inhibition in normal and pathological processes. OBJECTIVES To review evidence that the variable balance between neuronal excitation and active neuronal inhibition at different intensities can account for orgasm and its disorders. METHODS We selected studies from searches on PubMed, Google Scholar, Dialnet, and SciELO for terms including orgasm, neuronal development, Wallerian degeneration, prenatal stress, parental behavior, sensorimotor, neuronal excitation, neuronal inhibition, sensory deprivation, anhedonia, orgasmic disorder, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, persistent genital arousal disorder, sexual pain. RESULTS We provide evidence that the intensity of neuronal inhibition dynamically covaries concurrently with the intensity of neuronal excitation. Differences in these relative intensities can facilitate the understanding of orgasm and disorders of orgasm. CONCLUSION Neuronal excitation and neuronal inhibition are normal, continuously active processes of the nervous system that are necessary for survival of neurons and the organism. The ability of genital sensory stimulation to induce concurrent neuronal inhibition enables the stimulation to attain the pleasurable, non-aversive, high intensity of excitation characteristic of orgasm. Excessive or deficient levels of neuronal inhibition relative to neuronal excitation may account for disorders of sexual desire, arousal and orgasm.
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Milani S, Dawson SJ, Velten J. Visual Attention and Sexual Function in Women. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-021-00312-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Theoretical models situate attention as integral to the onset and regulation of sexual response and propose that problems with sexual response and subsequent sexual dysfunction result from insufficient attentional processing of sexual stimuli. The goal of this paper is to review literature examining the link between attentional processing of sexual stimuli and sexual function in women. Specifically, we sought to understand whether women with and without sexual dysfunction differ in their visual attention to sexual stimuli and examined the link with sexual response, which would support attention as a mechanism underlying sexual dysfunction.
Recent Findings
Across women with and without sexual concerns, sexual stimuli are preferentially attended to relative to nonsexual stimuli, suggesting that sexual stimuli are more salient than nonsexual stimuli. Differences between women with and without sexual dysfunction emerge when examining visual attention toward the most salient features of sexual stimuli (e.g., genital regions depicting sexual activity). Consistent with theoretical models, visual attention and sexual response are related, such that increasing attention to sexual cues facilitates sexual arousal, whereas reduced attention to sexual stimuli appears to suppress sexual arousal, which may contribute to sexual difficulties in women.
Summary
Taken together, the research supports the role of visual attention in sexual response and sexual function. These findings provide empirical support for interventions that target attentional processing of sexual stimuli. Future research is required to further delineate the specific attentional mechanisms involved in sexual response and investigate whether these are modifiable. This knowledge may be beneficial for developing novel psychological interventions targeting attentional processes in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions.
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Nowosielski K, Kurpisz J, Kowalczyk R. Sexual inhibition and sexual excitation in a sample of Polish women. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249560. [PMID: 33822822 PMCID: PMC8023475 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The contemporary concept of sexual counseling for women with sexual problems, distress, and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes tailored medical and/or psychological intervention. The dual control model and the Sexual Excitation/Sexual Inhibition Inventory for Women (SESII-W) are helpful for identifying risk factors and tailoring therapy for FSD. The current study aimed to (1) validate the Polish translation of the SESII-W in a sample of Polish women, and (2) verify the usefulness of the SESII-W in clinical practice. Five hundred nine white women age 18 to 55 years old (M ± SD age = 39.7 ± 11.3 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. Linguistic validation of the Polish translation of the SESII-W was first performed. A battery of tests was then used to evaluate reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, measurement invariances, and correlations between the SESII-W and other measures. Given that the original version of the SESII-W had unsatisfactory model fit, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were subsequently performed. Results showed a new final model that included 26 items with seven lower- and two higher-order factors and explained 58.9% of the variance in the data, with CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.05 and χ2 = 693.39, p < 0.001. Cronbach’s α was 0.77 for Sexual Excitation (SE) and 0.88 for Sexual Inhibition (SI) scales. A moderate negative association between SI and the presence of FSD according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria was noted. SE was positively associated with engaging in risky sexual behaviors, Extraversion and Openness to Experiences traits, and was negatively correlated with relationship quality. Finally, age was negatively correlated with all domains of the SESII-W except Arousal Contingency. SE and SI were both lower in older women as compared to younger once. These results demonstrate that the Polish version of SESII-W shows good psychometric properties. A higher propensity for SI was associated with the presence of sexual problems, distress, and FSD, whereas a higher propensity for SE was associated with greater engagement in risky sexual behaviors and personality type. However, future studies on larger and more diverse populations are required to confirm the replicability of the factor structure of the scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Nowosielski
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Opole, Opole, Poland
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Jacek Kurpisz
- Department and Clinic of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Robert Kowalczyk
- Department of Sexology, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Cracow, Poland
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Rao TSS, Andrade C. Personalized Pharmacotherapy for Women With Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOSEXUAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/2631831820973142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T. S. Sathyanarayana Rao
- Department of Psychiatry, JSS Medical College Hospital, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka, India
| | - Chittaranjan Andrade
- Department of Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neurotoxicology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Roslan NS, Jaafar NRN, Sidi H, Baharudin N, Kumar J, Das S, Hussain NHN. The Bio-Psycho-Social Dimension in Women's Sexual Desire: 'Argumentum ad novitatem'. Curr Drug Targets 2020. [PMID: 28641524 DOI: 10.2174/1389450118666170622090337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sexual desire includes complex motivation and drive. In the context of biological and cognitive- emotive state art of science, it is often a neglected field in medicine. In regard to the treatment, study on women's sexual function received less attention compared to the men's sexuality. In the past, this endeavor was relatively not well disseminated in the scientific community. Recently, there was a revolutionized surge of drug targets available to treat women with low sexual desire. It is timely to review the relevant biological approach, especially in the context of pharmacotherapy to understand this interesting clinical entity which was modulated by numerous interactive psychosocial inter-play and factors. The complex inter-play between numerous dimensional factors lends insights to understand the neural mechanism, i.e. the rewards centre pathway and its interaction with external psychosocialstimulus, e.g. relationship or other meaningful life events. The function of hormones, e.g. oxytocin or testosterone regulation was described. The role of neurotransmitters as reflected by the introduction of a molecule of flibenserin, a full agonist of the 5-HT1A and partial agonist of the D4 to treat premenopausal women with low sexual desire was deliberated. Based on this fundamental scientific core knowledge, we suggest an outline on know-how of introduction for sex therapy (i.e. "inner-self" and "outer-self") where the role of partner is narrated. Then, we also highlighted on the use of pharmacological agent as an adjunct scope of therapy, i.e. phosphodiasterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and hormonal treatment in helping the patient with low sexual desire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Syazwani Roslan
- Department of Psychiatry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nik Ruzyanei Nik Jaafar
- Department of Psychiatry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hatta Sidi
- Department of Psychiatry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Najwa Baharudin
- Department of Psychiatry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jaya Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Srijit Das
- Department of Anatomy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nik Hazlina Nik Hussain
- Women's Health Development Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Tuiten A, Michiels F, Böcker KB, Höhle D, van Honk J, de Lange RP, van Rooij K, Kessels R, Bloemers J, Gerritsen J, Janssen P, de Leede L, Meyer JJ, Everaerd W, Frijlink HW, Koppeschaar HP, Olivier B, Pfaus JG. Genotype scores predict drug efficacy in subtypes of female sexual interest/arousal disorder: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 14:1745506518788970. [PMID: 30016917 PMCID: PMC6052493 DOI: 10.1177/1745506518788970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Attempts to develop a drug treatment for female sexual interest/arousal disorder
have so far been guided by the principle of ‘one size fits all’, and have failed
to acknowledge the complexity of female sexuality. Guided by personalized
medicine, we designed two on-demand drugs targeting two distinct hypothesized
causal mechanisms for this sexual disorder. The objective of this study was to
design and test a novel procedure, based on genotyping, that predicts which of
the two on-demand drugs will yield a positive treatment response. In a
double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over experiment, 139 women
with female sexual interest/arousal disorder received three different on-demand
drug-combination treatments during three 2-week periods: testosterone
0.5 mg + sildenafil 50 mg, testosterone 0.5 mg + buspirone 10 mg, and matching
placebo. The primary endpoint was change in satisfactory sexual events.
Subjects’ genetic profile was assessed using a microarray chip that measures
300,000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms. A preselection of single-nucleotide
polymorphisms associated with genes that are shown to be involved in sexual
behaviour were combined into a Phenotype Prediction Score. The Phenotype
Prediction Score demarcation formula was developed and subsequently validated on
separate data sets. Prediction of drug-responders with the Phenotype Prediction
Score demarcation formula gave large effect sizes (d = 0.66 through 1.06) in the
true drug-responders, and medium effect sizes (d = 0.51 and d = 0.47) in all
patients (including identified double, and non-responders). Accuracy,
sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive
value of the Phenotype Prediction Score demarcation formula were all between
0.78 and 0.79, and thus sufficient. The resulting Phenotype Prediction Score was
validated and shown to effectively and reliably predict which women would
benefit from which on-demand drug, and could therefore also be useful in
clinical practice, as a companion diagnostic establishing the way to a true
personalized medicine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frits Michiels
- 2 Chemistry and Life Sciences, V.O. Patients & Trademarks, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Daniël Höhle
- 3 Alan Turing Institute Almere, Almere, The Netherlands
| | - Jack van Honk
- 4 Department of Experimental Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,5 Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,6 Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Kim van Rooij
- 1 Emotional Brain BV, Almere, The Netherlands.,7 Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rob Kessels
- 1 Emotional Brain BV, Almere, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Bloemers
- 1 Emotional Brain BV, Almere, The Netherlands.,7 Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Gerritsen
- 1 Emotional Brain BV, Almere, The Netherlands.,7 Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paddy Janssen
- 8 Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,9 Department of Central Hospital Pharmacy, Viecuri Hospital, Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Leo de Leede
- 10 Exelion Bio-Pharmaceutical Consultancy B.V., Waddinxveen, The Netherlands
| | - John-Jules Meyer
- 3 Alan Turing Institute Almere, Almere, The Netherlands.,11 Department of Information and Computing Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Walter Everaerd
- 12 Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henderik W Frijlink
- 13 Research Group of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherland
| | | | - Berend Olivier
- 7 Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,14 Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,15 Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - James G Pfaus
- 16 Department of Psychology, Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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11
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An international Urogynecological association (IUGA)/international continence society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for the assessment of sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction. Int Urogynecol J 2018; 29:647-666. [DOI: 10.1007/s00192-018-3603-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Rogers RG, Pauls RN, Thakar R, Morin M, Kuhn A, Petri E, Fatton B, Whitmore K, Kinsberg S, Lee J. An International Urogynecological Association (IUGA)/International Continence Society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for the assessment of sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction. Neurourol Urodyn 2018; 37:1220-1240. [PMID: 29441607 DOI: 10.1002/nau.23508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The terminology in current use for sexual function and dysfunction in women with pelvic floor disorders lacks uniformity, which leads to uncertainty, confusion, and unintended ambiguity. The terminology for the sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction needs to be collated in a clinically-based consensus report. METHODS This report combines the input of members of the Standardization and Terminology Committees of two International Organizations, the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA), and the International Continence Society (ICS), assisted at intervals by many external referees. Internal and external review was developed to exhaustively examine each definition, with decision-making by collective opinion (consensus). Importantly, this report is not meant to replace, but rather complement current terminology used in other fields for female sexual health and to clarify terms specific to women with pelvic floor dysfunction. RESULTS A clinically based terminology report for sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction encompassing over 100 separate definitions, has been developed. Key aims have been to make the terminology interpretable by practitioners, trainees, and researchers in female pelvic floor dysfunction. Interval review (5-10 years) is anticipated to keep the document updated and as widely acceptable as possible. CONCLUSION A consensus-based terminology report for female sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction has been produced aimed at being a significant aid to clinical practice and a stimulus for research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ranee Thakar
- Croydon University Hospital Croydon, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Annette Kuhn
- University Teaching Hospital Berne (Inselspital), Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Brigitte Fatton
- University Hospital Nîmes, Nimes, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
| | | | | | - Joseph Lee
- University of New South Wales, St Vincents Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Both S. Recent Developments in Psychopharmaceutical Approaches to Treating Female Sexual Interest and Arousal Disorder. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2017; 9:192-199. [PMID: 29225554 PMCID: PMC5711968 DOI: 10.1007/s11930-017-0124-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review summarizes the recent literature and empirical studies on psychopharmacological approaches to treating female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). Recent Findings Several new drugs for FSIAD that are intended to increase sexual responsiveness by influencing central excitatory and inhibitory neuromodulatory processes are under development. Studies on flibanserin resulted in the first approved medication for the treatment of low sexual desire in premenopausal women. New drugs under development are testosterone combined with sildenafil or buspiron, bremelanotide, BP101, and nasal testosterone (TBS-2). Summary Although pharmacological enhancement of sexual responsiveness may be potentially helpful in the treatment of FSIAD, the observed effects of flibanserin and other new drugs under development seem limited in terms of clinical significance. Given the multifactorial character of FSIAD, it may be important to integrate psychopharmacological treatment with sex therapy for optimal treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Both
- Department of Psychosomatic Gynecology and Sexology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
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Brotto LA. Evidence-based treatments for low sexual desire in women. Front Neuroendocrinol 2017; 45:11-17. [PMID: 28237271 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Low sexual desire is the most common sexual complaint in women, with multinational studies finding that at least a third of women experience low sexual desire. No single etiology for the development of Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder, the diagnosis laid out by the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, has been established. There has been considerable interest in pharmacological approaches to improving low desire, and agents targeting a range of neurotransmitters have been examined. To date, only flibanserin, a centrally acting medication targeting the serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine systems, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite statistically significant effects on sexual desire, sexual distress, and sexually satisfying events, side-effects are significant, and flibanserin is completely contraindicated with alcohol. As such, there has been renewed interest in advancing the science of psychological approaches to low desire, including cognitive behavioral and mindfulness therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Brotto
- University of British Columbia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada.
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Abstract
Abstract. The past three decades have seen an unprecedented increase in empirical research on women’s sexual response. In this review, we critically examine current controversies and assumptions associated with the nature of women’s sexual arousal and desire. We focus specifically on four assumptions: (1) the assumption that women should be aroused by stimuli that align with their stated preferences, (2) the assumption that women’s physiological and self-reported arousal should perfectly align, (3) the assumption that sexual desire precedes sexual arousal, and (4) the assumption that a single pharmaceutical compound will adequately restore women’s sexual response to her level of satisfaction. Engaging a gendered psychological framework for conceptualizing women’s sexuality, we emphasize the need for models of women’s sexual response to be sensitive to the sexed biological processes and gendered psychosocial factors that contribute to a woman’s unique sexual experience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori A. Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Costa RM, Oliveira TF, Pestana J, Costa D. Self-transcendence is related to higher female sexual desire. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2016.02.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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17
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Altered states of consciousness are related to higher sexual responsiveness. Conscious Cogn 2016; 42:135-141. [DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2016.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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18
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Bloemers J, van Rooij K, de Leede L, Frijlink HW, Koppeschaar HPF, Olivier B, Tuiten A. Single dose sublingual testosterone and oral sildenafil vs. a dual route/dual release fixed dose combination tablet: a pharmacokinetic comparison. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 81:1091-102. [PMID: 26804967 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim was to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of two formulations of a combination drug product containing 0.5 mg testosterone and 50 mg sildenafil for female sexual interest/arousal disorder. The prototype (formulation 1) consists of a testosterone solution for sublingual administration and a sildenafil tablet that is administered 2.5 h later. The dual route/dual release fixed dose combination tablet (formulation 2) employs a sublingual and an oral route for systemic uptake. This tablet has an inner core of sildenafil with a polymeric time delay coating and an outer polymeric coating containing testosterone. It was designed to increase dosing practicality and decrease potential temporal non-adherence through circumventing the relatively complex temporal dosing scheme. METHODS Twelve healthy premenopausal subjects received both formulations randomly on separate days. Blood was sampled frequently to determine the pharmacokinetics of free testosterone, total testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, sildenafil and N-desmethyl-sildenafil. RESULTS Formulation 2 had a higher maximum concentration (Cmax ) for testosterone, 8.06 ng ml(-1) (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.84, 9.28) and higher area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC), 7.69 ng ml(-1) h (95% CI 6.22, 9.16) than formulation 1, 5.66 ng ml(-1) (95% CI 4.63, 6.69) and 5.12 ng ml(-1) h (95% CI 4.51, 5.73), respectively. Formulation 2 had a lower Cmax for sildenafil, 173 ng ml(-1) (95% CI 126, 220) and a lower AUC, 476 ng ml(-1) h (95% CI 401, 551) than formulation 1, 268 ng ml(-1) (95% CI 188, 348) and 577 ng ml(-1) h (95% CI 462, 692), respectively. Formulation 2 released sildenafil after 2.75 h (95% CI 2.40, 3.10). CONCLUSIONS The dual route/dual release fixed dose combination tablet fulfilled its design criteria and is considered suitable for further clinical testing. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT Female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) is a significant problem impacting psychological well-being, but the pharmacotherapeutic options for this problem are lacking. The combined, on-demand, sublingual administration of low dose sublingual testosterone and oral administration of sildenafil is a novel pharmacotherapeutic option under development for FSIAD. In proof-of-concept trials, these compounds were successfully administered via different dosage forms (sublingual and oral) at different time points (separated by 2.5 h) because of their markedly different pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic profiles. For future larger scale studies and the clinical practice, this raises obvious adherence issues. WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS A newly developed dual route/dual release fixed dose combination tablet containing testosterone and sildenafil mimics the pharmacokinetic profile of these components when they are administered as different dosage forms, 2.5 h apart. This combination tablet is a suitable final pharmaceutical drug product that will be used in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jos Bloemers
- Emotional Brain B.V., Almere.,Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht
| | - Kim van Rooij
- Emotional Brain B.V., Almere.,Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht
| | - Leo de Leede
- Exelion Bio-Pharmaceutical Consultancy B.V., Waddinxveen
| | - Henderik W Frijlink
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Berend Olivier
- Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Utrecht University, Utrecht.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adriaan Tuiten
- Emotional Brain B.V., Almere.,Department of Psychopharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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The Female Sexual Response: Current Models, Neurobiological Underpinnings and Agents Currently Approved or Under Investigation for the Treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. CNS Drugs 2015; 29:915-33. [PMID: 26519340 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-015-0288-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
How a woman responds to sexual cues is highly dependent on a number of distinct, yet related, factors. Researchers have attempted to explain the female sexual response for decades, but no single model reigns supreme. Proper female sexual function relies on the interplay of somatic, psychosocial and neurobiological factors; misregulation of any of these components could result in sexual dysfunction. The most common sexual dysfunction disorder is hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HSDD is a disorder affecting women across the world; a recent in-person diagnostic interview study conducted in the USA found that an estimated 7.4% of US women suffer from HSDD. Despite the disorder's prevalence, it is often overlooked as a formal diagnosis. In a survey of primary care physicians and obstetrics/gynaecology specialists, the number one reason for not assigning an HSDD diagnosis was the lack of a safe and effective therapy approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This changed with the recent FDA approval of flibanserin (Addyi™) for the treatment of premenopausal women with acquired, generalized HSDD; there are still, however, no treatments approved outside the USA. HSDD is characterized by a marked decrease in sexual desire, an absence of motivation (also known as avolition) to engage in sexual activity, and the condition's hallmark symptom, marked patient distress. Research suggests that HSDD may arise from an imbalance of the excitatory and inhibitory neurobiological pathways that regulate the mammalian sexual response; top-down inhibition from the prefrontal cortex may be hyperactive, and/or bottom-up excitation to the limbic system may be hypoactive. Key neuromodulators for the excitatory pathways include norepinephrine, oxytocin, dopamine and melanocortins. Serotonin, opioids and endocannabinoids serve as key neuromodulators for the inhibitory pathways. Evolving treatment strategies have relied heavily on these crucial research findings, as many of the agents currently being investigated as treatment options for HSDD target and influence key players within these excitatory and inhibitory pathways, including various hormone therapies and centrally acting drugs, such as buspirone, bupropion and bremelanotide.
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Costa RM, Oliveira RF. Maladaptive defense mechanisms are associated with decoupling of testosterone from sexual desire in women of reproductive age. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/15294145.2015.1089184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Abstract
Sexual problems are highly prevalent among patients with psychiatric disorders. They may be caused by the psychopathology of the psychiatric disorder but also by its pharmacotherapy. Both positive symptoms (e.g., psychosis, hallucinations) as well as negative symptoms (e.g., anhedonia) of schizophrenia may negatively interfere with interpersonal and sexual relationships. Atypical antipsychotics have fewer sexual side-effects than the classic antipsychotics. Mood disorders may affect libido, sexual arousal, orgasm, and erectile function. With the exception of bupropion, agomelatine, mirtazapine, vortioxetine, amineptine, and moclobemide, all antidepressants cause sexual side-effects. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may particularly delay ejaculation and female orgasm, but also can cause decreased libido and erectile difficulties. SSRI-induced sexual side-effects are dose-dependent and reversible. Very rarely, their sexual side-effects persist after SSRI discontinuation. This is often preceded by genital anesthesia. Some personality characteristics are a risk factor for sexual dysfunction. Also patients with eating disorders may suffer from sexual difficulties. So far, research into psychotropic-induced sexual side-effects suffers from substantial methodologic limitations. Patients tend not to talk with their clinician about their sexual life. Psychiatrists and other doctors need to take the initiative to talk about the patient's sexual life in order to become informed about potential medication-induced sexual difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcel D Waldinger
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of BetaSciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Kurpisz J, Mak M, Lew-Starowicz M, Nowosielski K, Samochowiec J. The Dual Control Model of sexual response by J. Bancroft and E. Janssen. Theoretical basis, research and practical issues. POSTĘPY PSYCHIATRII I NEUROLOGII 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pin.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Nappi RE, Cucinella L. Advances in pharmacotherapy for treating female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2015; 16:875-87. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2015.1020791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Bradford A. Sexual Desire in Female Cancer Survivors. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-014-0036-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Belkin ZR, Krapf JM, Goldstein AT. Drugs in early clinical development for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 24:159-67. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.978283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zoe R Belkin
- 1The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington, DC USA
| | - Jill M Krapf
- 1The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington, DC USA
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Leusink P, Boeke AJP, Laan E. Toward Personalized Sexual Medicine: Where is the Evidence? J Sex Med 2014; 11:2357-8. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Garrido P, Salehzadeh F, Duque-Guimaraes DE, Al-Khalili L. Negative regulation of glucose metabolism in human myotubes by supraphysiological doses of 17β-estradiol or testosterone. Metabolism 2014; 63:1178-87. [PMID: 25034385 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Exposure of skeletal muscle to high levels of testosterone or estrogen induces insulin resistance, but evidence regarding the direct role of either sex hormone on metabolism is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the direct effect of acute sex hormone exposure on glucose metabolism in skeletal muscle. MATERIALS/METHODS Differentiated human skeletal myotubes were exposed to either 17β-estradiol or testosterone and metabolic characteristics were assessed. Glucose incorporation into glycogen, glucose oxidation, palmitate oxidation, and phosphorylation of key signaling proteins were determined. RESULTS Treatment of myotubes with either 17β-estradiol or testosterone decreased glucose incorporation into glycogen. Exposure of myotubes to 17β-estradiol reduced glucose oxidation under basal and insulin-stimulated conditions. However, testosterone treatment enhanced basal palmitate oxidation and prevented insulin action on glucose and palmitate oxidation. Acute stimulation of myotubes with testosterone reduced phosphorylation of S6K1 and p38 MAPK. Exposure of myotubes to either 17β-estradiol or testosterone augmented phosphorylation GSK3β(Ser9) and PKCδ(Thr505), two negative regulators of glycogen synthesis. Treatment of myotubes with a PKC specific inhibitor (GFX) restored the effect of either sex hormone on glycogen synthesis. PKCδ silencing restored glucose incorporation into glycogen to baseline in response to 17β-estradiol, but not testosterone treatment. CONCLUSION An acute exposure to supraphysiological doses of either 17β-estradiol or testosterone regulates glucose metabolism, possibly via PKC signaling pathways. Furthermore, testosterone treatment elicits additional alterations in serine/threonine kinase signaling, including the ribosomal protein S6K1 and p38 MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Garrido
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Functional Biology, Physiology Area, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Firoozeh Salehzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Lubna Al-Khalili
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Dawson SJ, Chivers ML. Gender Differences and Similarities in Sexual Desire. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-014-0027-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Poels S, Bloemers J, van Rooij K, Koppeschaar H, Olivier B, Tuiten A. Two novel combined drug treatments for women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 121:71-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Dawson SJ, Chivers ML. Gender‐Specificity of Solitary and Dyadic Sexual Desire among Gynephilic and Androphilic Women and Men. J Sex Med 2014; 11:980-994. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Buster JE. Managing female sexual dysfunction. Fertil Steril 2014; 100:905-15. [PMID: 24074537 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Revised: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs) range from short-term aggravations to major emotional disturbances adversely affecting family and workplace. This review highlights diagnosis and management of the four most widely diagnosed FSDs. It initially focuses on hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) as a driving force at the heart of all other FSDs; nothing happens without sexual desire. Successful resolution of HSDD frequently facilitates resolution of other disorders. Central to understanding HSDD is the impact of aging female sexual endocrinology and its effect on both prevalence and expression patterns of FSD. Advances in this field have enabled introduction of some the most effective treatments yet described for HSDD. Sexual arousal disorder, though commonly affected by the same factors as HSDD, is heavily associated with psychotropic drugs and mood elevators. Orgasmic disorder is frequently the downstream result of other sexual dysfunctions, particularly HSDD, or the result of a major psychosexual trauma. Successful management of the underlying disorder often resolves orgasmic disorder. Sexual pain disorder is frequently the result of a gynecologic disorder, such as endometriosis, that can be substantially managed through successful treatment of that disorder. This article ends with the article's most important note: how to initiate the conversation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Buster
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island.
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Bloemers J, Scholte HS, van Rooij K, Goldstein I, Gerritsen J, Olivier B, Tuiten A. Reduced Gray Matter Volume and Increased White Matter Fractional Anisotropy in Women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. J Sex Med 2014; 11:753-67. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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The evolving sexual health paradigm: transforming definitions into sexual health practices. AIDS 2013; 27 Suppl 1:S127-33. [PMID: 24088679 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Sexual health is an evolving paradigm that integrates a positive approach to sexuality with existing public health policy and practice for reducing the burdens of sexually transmitted infections, including those due to HIV. The sexual health paradigm rests in commitment to sexual rights, sexual knowledge, sexual choice, and sexual pleasure, as well as key elements of sexuality addressed by sexual desire, sexual arousal, and sexual function, and sexual behaviors. The sexual health paradigm offers new approaches to supporting general health and well being while reducing the burdens of sexual diseases and their consequences.
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