Female sexual response: models, sexual dysfunctions and clinical approach

Abstract

Background: Sexual health is an important variable and contributor to the physical, emotional, mental and social well-being of an individual, and to a satisfactory relationship in general. Everyone has the right to live their sexuality in a free, healthy and rewarding manner. Sexual dysfunctions are a common problem among women and their definitions have evolved together with empirical studies and new theoretical models closer to the female reality. Aim: To describe the theoretical models that explain the female sexual response, to present clinical definitions of women sexual dysfunctions and discuss several clinical approaches to each dysfunction. Also to draw attention to these questions in the medical office, due to the impact they might have in a woman's life. Methods: This narrative review was written based in an overview of the literature searched in MEDLINE and in reading area books. Discussion: This section presents the three major topics this narrative review focus on: models of female sexual response, DSM-5 definitions of women sexual dysfunctions and proposals for their clinical approach. The sexual dysfunctions' characteristics, risk factors, differential diagnosis and the impact in the couple's life is discussed, as well as the importance of a holistic evaluation of a woman with these complaints. There are also discussed several techniques to a clinical approach, without forgetting that sexual dysfunctional comorbidities in the same woman are frequent. Conclusion: This narrative review can be a valuable contributor in improving sexual communication skills of general/specialized physicians and even to ordinary people interested in the theme. It provides objective information, easy to read and stresses its relevance for women. It is hoped that this review stimulates dialogue amongst colleagues and more scientific research in the field.