Sexual Problems in Women
Other Treatment
Studies of alternative medicines for sexual problems are limited, but some of them show possible benefits. These include studies of herbal supplements and devices.
Other Treatment Choices
ArginMax, a nutritional supplement containing ginseng, ginkgo, damiana, and other ingredients, is the subject of a small study. Early reports show improvement in sexual desire. Studies on ArginMax continue.13
Ginkgo biloba may be helpful for women who lack sexual interest and response while taking antidepressants.14 Ginkgo improves blood circulation throughout the body. But if you are taking a blood thinner, such as daily aspirin or warfarin, ginkgo may not be for you. Talk to your doctor about whether ginkgo is safe for you—it may increase the effect of a blood thinner.
DHEA. Like testosterone, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an androgen made in the body. Over-the-counter DHEA:15
- When taken by mouth, has the same risks of liver damage and negative effects on your cholesterol levels as oral testosterone. It also has the same unwanted hair growth and acne side effects. This is because the body turns DHEA into testosterone.
- Is not known to improve sexual well-being in healthy women.
- Is not regulated by the government, so you cannot know for sure how much you are taking. Some DHEA supplements contain less DHEA than the labels claim. Others contain more than the labels claim.
Vaginal weights can strengthen the pelvic floor and vaginal muscles. They usually come in five sizes. Start with the smallest weight, and work up to the largest over time. Insert a weight into your vagina, then hold it in place while standing upright for 15 minutes. Your muscles will feel the urge to tighten and hold it in. After a few days, the vaginal muscles become strong enough that they no longer feel an urge to hold the weight. This is when you use the next larger weight. Once you've used all five weights, keep your muscles toned by using the largest weight for 5 to 7 days in a row, each month.
Also under study is the EROS-Clitoral Therapy Device (CTD), in which a small battery-operated device is used to stimulate engorgement of the clitoris as a way to increase a woman's sexual arousal and satisfaction. Early studies report improved ability to achieve orgasm. Studies on EROS-CTD continue.9, 16
What To Think About
Researchers continue to look for treatments for raising sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction. Some products, such as different vitamins and herbs, are promoted as natural treatments for sexual problems. But most of these products have not been subject to the same kind of rigorous scientific testing for safety and effectiveness that standard medical treatments must go through before they are approved in the United States. Be sure to talk with your doctor about which therapies might be best for you. If you decide to use an alternative medication or supplement, follow these precautions.
- Talk with your doctor before taking an alternative medicine or supplement, especially if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, you take prescription medicines, or you have another health problem.
- As with all conventional medicines and supplements, it is important to follow the directions on the label.
- Do not exceed the maximum recommended dose.
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| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS | Last Updated: March 11, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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