The past ten years have seen a great deal of progress in the field of female sexual medicine. We have a society – the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health, that addresses the needs of providers in this field – and it is really a multidisciplinary field, with physicians (gynecologists, urologists, psychiatrists, family doctors, internists), psychologists, sex therapists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pelvic floor physical therapists, all devoted to helping women improve their sexual health. We have seen more research in testosterone use for women, and now have a better sense of what serum levels are associated with better sexual response and sense of well-being for women. We know that greater than 40% of women in the United States report distress about some aspect of their sexual function – most commonly low desire. The media has also been helpful in normalizing discussion about sexual issues – shows like “Sex and the City” have broached topics from oral sex to vibrator use, and eased some of the discomfort women may have had in asking for help with their problem, or answers to their questions.
There are many products available to help with sexual function in women. Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants are important for comfortable activity. Sexual accessories like clitoral stimulators and vibrators are helpful to develop/maintain the orgasm reflex. It is a myth that a woman may get “addicted” to the vibrator, and it can actually be an essential part of sexual interaction for women and couples. There are diagnostic tests that we can perform to help determine how best to help women with problems in this area. I will be happy to discuss products or answer questions regarding your own personal difficulties. Please make an appointment for a consultation.
