Once seen as mostly a psychological issue, in recent years female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been recognized as a wide spread problem with physiological aspects that are treatable. According to reported data, up to 43 percent of women in the United States experience some form of FSD. One of the most commonly reported types of FSD is female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD).
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
FSAD is the persistent or recurrent inability to attain or maintain the lubrication-swelling response of sexual excitement until completion of sexual activity
Arousal disorder is characterized by a lack of vaginal lubrication; decreased clitoral and labial sensation; decreased clitoral and labial engorgement; or decreased sexual arousal and excitement
When these symptoms cause significant personal distress to the women affected, a diagnosis of FSAD is made
FSAD occurs despite adequate focus, intensity and duration of sexual stimulation
Prevalence of FSAD
FSAD is experienced by approximately 20 percent of adult women
Three-fourths of women with FSAD are surgically or naturally menopausal
Data from the National Health and Social Life Survey indicate:
o One-third of women report a lack of sexual interest
o Nearly one-fourth do not experience orgasm
o Up to 20 percent report lubrication difficulties, while a similar percentage do not find sex pleasurable
Causes of FSAD
Surgical procedures such as a hysterectomy may affect changes in blood flow, which can cause a lack of sensitivity and sexual arousal
A hysterectomy, with or without oophorectomy (removal of ovaries), may also affect how a woman feels about herself sexually
The decrease in estrogen levels associated with menopause may make the vagina dry and thin, even causing it to shrink
Certain medications such as oral contraceptives, antihypertensives and antidepressants, may impact sexual function and libido; Women taking these drugs may report a decrease in arousal, increase in vaginal dryness and increase in difficulty reaching orgasm
Psychological factors such as depression, stress and relationship issues may cause or contribute to FSAD
Other causes include certain chronic diseases like diabetes, lifestyle choices such as cigarette smoking, and surgical trauma or nerve damage to the pubic area
Diagnosing FSAD
In order to diagnose FSAD a detailed patient history (sexual, medical, gynecologic and psychosocial) should be provided to a physician
The diagnosis of FSAD is based typically on physical examination and psychological interviews, which could help determine whether the problem is physical or psychological
Treatment
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drug therapies for treating arousal or desire disorders
Estrogen replacement therapy has resulted in some improved clitoral sensitivity, increased libido and less pain during intercourse, but it is not currently approved for this indication and may not be adequate therapy for treating arousal
Sex therapists and psychologists may assist in improving communication between partners to help improve the actual act of sex, including foreplay, intercourse and talking about sex
ALISTA™ made by VIVUS, Inc., is currently in Phase 3 clinical studies for the treatment of FSAD; Women who are interested in learning more about the ALISTA clinical studies are encouraged to call 1-866-4-ALISTA (1-866-425-4782) to learn more about participating in this important research.
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