Let's Talk About Sex: Discussing Intimacy Issues With Your Doctor

Main Category: Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 24 Jun 2008 - 3:00 PDT

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

According to sexual health expert, Sheryl Kingsberg, PhD, baby boomers are more willing to talk about a female sexual dysfunction (FSD) at a cocktail party than with their doctor.

Incidence of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), the most common sexual problem for women increases with age and after certain surgical procedures, particularly removal of the ovaries, and can arise from many causes, including relationship problems, the use of prescription pharmaceuticals, chronic diseases, or chemical imbalances.

According to one recent study of over 2000 American women, approximately 14% of pre-menopausal women between the ages of 20 and 49 reported symptoms of HSDD, compared with 26% of women who had had their ovaries surgically removed. Similarly, the incidence of HSDD rises to 9% for "naturally" menopausal women.

Although testosterone is popularly thought of as a male hormone, it also is present in women and is important for sexual health, particularly sexual desire. HSDD has been treated with off-label or compounded testosterone for many years, although the hormone has not been approved specifically for that use in the U.S. Researchers believe that testosterone levels, which fall with increasing age, may contribute to a woman's sexual desire.

A woman in her 50's has about half the level of blood testosterone than a woman in her 20's. "A significant drop in sex drive can lead to distress for both parties in the relationship," says Dr. Kingsberg. "It can also jumpstart discussions to address the problem."

Dr. Kingsberg believes physicians are not initiating discussions with post-menopausal patients due to shorter patient visits, lack of training in sexual medicine, and the lack of an FDA-approved Rx treatment for HSDD. "More awareness is being made in the medical community to identify significant changes in sexual desire in post-menopause patients and guide women to doctors specializing in sexual health and or/counseling. Online resources also are available such as arhp.org and the National Women's Health Network. While there is no FDA approved treatment, progress is being made."

The lead product in development for treating FSD in menopausal women is LibiGel® by BioSante Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Currently, BioSante is conducting three Phase III clinical trials to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of LibiGel, including increasing sexual desire and sexual activity.

When safety and efficacy studies are completed and the FDA approves the drug, LibiGel® may become the first FDA-approved treatment specifically indicated for HSDD in menopausal women. BioSante hopes to get FDA approval some time during 2010 or 2011.

http://www.BioSantepharma.com