Posted On: April 5, 2021
It’s estimated that about 41% of women experience sexual dysfunction, compared to 31% of men. So, then, why are there at least six brand name drugs to treat erectile dysfunction in men but only two that treat sexual hypoactive desire disorder (HSDD) in women – the most common sexual disorder in women?
The answer comes down to two main reasons: The investment and research into erectile dysfunction (something that only affects 19% of men) far outpaces research into women’s sexual dysfunction. Women’s sexual dysfunction is also much more complex to treat, thanks to a wide-range of causes and our changing biology as we age.
HSDD isn’t the only sexual dysfunction disorder women experience. Other sexual disorders include:
Each of these disorders can be caused by many different conditions – from cancer to diabetes, to falling estrogen levels to sexually transmitted diseases and many, many others.
Fortunately, the approval of two new drugs in recent years – flibanserin (brand name Addyi) and bremelanotide (brand name Vyleesi) offer women more answers and hope. These medications, both which work very differently, are targeted for women with HSDD.
There is still much work to be done, but an increase in awareness, attention and investment among research and pharmaceutical companies is contributing to the development of new drugs for women with sexual dysfunction.
Another challenge is that women and providers need to overcome is that many provider-patient appointments feel rushed as is without getting into a topic that doesn’t seem all that important to a women’s health as sex – another common misinterpretation of women’s health.
It’s easy to understand why talking about your sexual health to your provider can seem embarrassing. But it shouldn’t. Your sexual health is an important part of your overall health. In fact, sex has been found to have a positive effect on:
Your healthcare provider should create an open, honest and comfortable space for you to bring any health concern you’re facing, whether it’s your physical, mental, emotional or sexual health. These topics require more than the average seven-minute appointment you get with a traditional primary care provider (and it’s why we do things a little differently at Eileen West, MD and Associates.)
Nothing means more to us than the trust of our patients, and we are thankful to them for letting us be a part of their health journey! Ready for personalized, compassionate care? Book a Membership Consultation today and learn what membership in our practice is all about! 📅 Click the link to schedule today.... https://calendly.com/monawest/membership-consultation-phone-call
Too many women are left navigating this transition alone. 💡 Menopause care matters! It’s time for open conversations, proactive support, and evidence-based guidance. If your physician hasn’t talked to you about menopause yet, don’t wait—ask the questions, demand the care you deserve! #MenopauseAwareness #WomensHealth #TakeControlOfYourHealth Source: Long, Michelle, et. al. “Women’s Experiences with Provider Communication and Interactions in Healthcare Care Settings: Findings from the 2022 KFF Women’s Health Survey.” KFF2023.
It’s National Sibling Day! Siblings shape who we are—from childhood memories to lifelong emotional support. Discover how these bonds influence personal growth, resilience, and well-being. Read more about the power of sibling relationships in our latest blog from our affiliate Ms.Medicine! https://www.msmedicine.com/blog/sibling-bonds-emotional-growth #SiblingBonds #EmotionalWellbeing
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