There was a recent article in The New York Times Magazine that has generated some buzz in the field of human sexuality. The article was written by Daniel Bergner, a contributing writer for the NY Times magazine and is an adaptation from his new book, What Do Women Want?: Adventures in the Science of Female Desire.
The article (hence his book) delves into the latest scientific research on the reasons behind the universally accepted notion that the loss of female libido is inevitable. Mr. Bergner debunks this popular myth (among others): the loss of female libido is not inevitable.
We agree with Mr. Bergner!
This article also briefly discusses some of the medications (Lybrido, Lybridos, Flibanserin)currently in clinical trials vying for FDA approval. As of today, there are no FDA approved medications for the treatment of low libido in women or in medical terms HSDD (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder). These medications are being dubbed as the “female Viagra”- a medication a woman can take before sex to get her in the mood.
Here, at the Medical Center for Female Sexuality, we do know there is a strong link between testosterone and sexual desire. Many people know this to be true of men but some are surprised this also holds true for women. When a female patient comes to us complaining of low desire, we analyze her hormones and often times we do see they have low testosterone levels. We have found that by supplementing their testosterone levels with FDA approved testosterone gel (for men) as well as by providing sexuality counseling we are extremely successful with improving a woman’s libido. However, this type of treatment can take several months to be effective.
Take a look at this interesting article and let us know your thoughts! Would you be interested in taking a pill to “jump start” your libido?