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Physiology of female sexual function and dysfunction

International Journal of Impotence Research volume 17, pages S44–S51 (2005)Cite this article

Abstract

Female sexual dysfunction is age-related, progressive, and highly prevalent, affecting 30–50% of American women. While there are emotional and relational elements to female sexual function and response, female sexual dysfunction can occur secondary to medical problems and have an organic basis. This paper addresses anatomy and physiology of normal female sexual function as well as the pathophysiology of female sexual dysfunction. Although the female sexual response is inherently difficult to evaluate in the clinical setting, a variety of instruments have been developed for assessing subjective measures of sexual arousal and function. Objective measurements used in conjunction with the subjective assessment help diagnose potential physiologic/organic abnormalities. Therapeutic options for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction, including hormonal, and pharmacological, are also addressed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Director Female Urology and Female Sexual Medicine, Rodeo Drive Women's Health Center, Beverly Hills, California, USA

    J R Berman

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  1. J R Berman
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Correspondence to J R Berman.

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Berman, J. Physiology of female sexual function and dysfunction. Int J Impot Res 17 (Suppl 1), S44–S51 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ijir.3901428

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