Potential role for the PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil in the treatment of female sexual dysfunction

Although female sexual dysfunction has been recognized as a health problem that affects the well-being of a large population of both pre-and post-menopausal women, organic underlying causes that could be susceptible to pharmacologic or surgical treatment have only recently been considered [1]. In the last decade significant discoveries in the biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology of male sexual function have led to marked improvements in the clinical management of male sexual dysfunction [2–7]. In contrast, research in female sexual function and dysfunction has lagged significantly. This lag is attributed, in part, to the lack of basic science models of sexual responses in female animals, lack of understanding of female sexual anatomy and physiology, as well as lack of defined treatments. In addition, there has been a lack of funding for basic science research in the field.