Levitra is a medicine which is taken by mouth for treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which the penis does not get hardens and expands when a man is sexually excited. Levitra helps a man with ED get and keep erection during sexual excitation. Levitra must be used only with doctor's advice.
How to Take
Levitra comes as tablets which you can take orally. It should be taken about 1 hour before sexual activity. Some form of sexual stimulation is needed with levitra for an erection. Do not take levitra more than once in a day. Levitra can be taken with or without food.
Warning/Precautions
Men who take excessive intake of levitra may experience more side effects or may get severe back pain. If you have taken more lavitra than you need then you must take advice from your doctor.
Before start with any new medicine you must check it with your doctor or pharmacist. This medicine is not for the use of women and children.
Missed Dose
Levitra is used as needed so you are not likely to miss the dose.
Possible Side Effects
Most commonly known side effects of levitra are headaches, flushing, stuffy or runny nose. Lavitra rarely cause an erection that will not go away (priapism). If you get an erection that lasts for more than 4 hours then don't waste time and immediately take medical help. Priapism must be treated as soon as possible or there can be damage to your penis including the inability to have erections. There can be vision problem because of levitra. Person can't identify between blue and green. This does not cover all side effects of levitra for more information please gets back to your doctor.
Storage
Store at 25 C (77 F); excursions permitted to 15-30 C (59-86 F). Keep Levitra and all medicines out of the reach of children.
Overdose
If you have taken an overdose of levitra, you should seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose of levitra are not much known but likely it include chest pain, back pain, dizziness, irregular heartbeats, abnormal vision and swelling of the ankles or legs.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Safety
Now, the question arises, what important information should you know about the cialis? If you take cialis with other medicines, it can cause your blood pressure to drop suddenly to the unsafe level. You can get dizzy, faint or can have heart attack or stroke problem. Don't take cialis, if you are taking any medicines including nitrates.
Tell your doctor that you are taking cialis because if you need emergency medical health care about the heart problem then your doctor should be aware of when you have taken last dose of cialis. After intake of cialis, some of the ingredients can remain in your body for more than 2 days. If you have any problem with kidney or liver then these ingredients can remain longer in your body.
Cialis is the prescription medicine which is given by doctors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Erectile Dysfunction is the condition in which penis does not get harden or expand during the sexual excitation. If man is getting or keeping erection should rush to his doctor if the condition bothers to him.
Cialis is only indented for men and not for women or children. The active ingredients of cialis are tadalafil. Before taking cialis you must tell all health problems that you are suffering. Cialis and other medicines can affect each other therefore you must always check with your doctor starting and stopping medicines. Take cialis exactly as your doctor prescribe you. Cialis comes in different doses such as 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg. If you have kidney problems then your doctor may ask you to take lower dose of cialis. You take one cialis tablet before sexual activity.
Tell your doctor that you are taking cialis because if you need emergency medical health care about the heart problem then your doctor should be aware of when you have taken last dose of cialis. After intake of cialis, some of the ingredients can remain in your body for more than 2 days. If you have any problem with kidney or liver then these ingredients can remain longer in your body.
Cialis is the prescription medicine which is given by doctors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Erectile Dysfunction is the condition in which penis does not get harden or expand during the sexual excitation. If man is getting or keeping erection should rush to his doctor if the condition bothers to him.
Cialis is only indented for men and not for women or children. The active ingredients of cialis are tadalafil. Before taking cialis you must tell all health problems that you are suffering. Cialis and other medicines can affect each other therefore you must always check with your doctor starting and stopping medicines. Take cialis exactly as your doctor prescribe you. Cialis comes in different doses such as 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg. If you have kidney problems then your doctor may ask you to take lower dose of cialis. You take one cialis tablet before sexual activity.
Friday, August 29, 2008
A stud is not the Male ideal study
A global survey of 28,000 men has debunked many stereotypes about the male ideal of a `man's man', according to a Canadian-led study.
Masculinity is certainly not the male ideal of a `man's man' or maleness, says the study.
Nor is being a womanizer or a career seeker.
On the contrary, the male ideal of a ``man's man'' is someone who is honourable, responsible and committed to his partner, says the study.
According to it, most men want to be seen as good fathers and good husbands, not as studs chasing women for sex.
The study which covered eight countries, including the US, Brazil, Germany and Italy, found that for 33 per cent of men viewed being seen as`honourable' as their highest ideal of maleness.
Another 28 percent said being in control of one's life was their ideal of maleness.
A vast majority of them said the topmost male quality was putting love ahead of sex.
Just one percent rated a great sex life as their ideal.
Three percent plumped for career and financial success.
According to Canadian Michael Sand, who led the survey of 27, 839 men across many cultures and age groups in the eight countries, the new study has shattered may stereotypes about maleness.
``Men routinely said (during the survey) that being in good health, having a good family life, having a harmonious relationship with my wife or my partner, is way more important than a successful career, having a nice home, having a satisfying sex life,'' he was quoted as saying by a Canadian news agency.
Sand said,``Being seen as honourable - I think men are telling us that how my community views my integrity and my values system is important to me. They're also saying `I want to be seen as a good father, a successful partner, far more than I want to be seen as a stud'.'
According to him, all these things ``point to the importance -- not in keeping with stereotypes -- of interpersonal relationships to men, as well as to women of course.''
Sand said the study debunks what beer commercials and Hollywood gossip sheets project men to - chasing babes, fleeing commitment, abandoning their kids, and having trouble staying sober.
``Just as we know all women are not Playboy bunnies, we know all men are not ravening sex fiends interested in the next conquest. These stereotypes -- I think we all know they're not real
``This is why it's so important to do research -- to challenge our assumptions,'' said the Canadian researcher.
Masculinity is certainly not the male ideal of a `man's man' or maleness, says the study.
Nor is being a womanizer or a career seeker.
On the contrary, the male ideal of a ``man's man'' is someone who is honourable, responsible and committed to his partner, says the study.
According to it, most men want to be seen as good fathers and good husbands, not as studs chasing women for sex.
The study which covered eight countries, including the US, Brazil, Germany and Italy, found that for 33 per cent of men viewed being seen as`honourable' as their highest ideal of maleness.
Another 28 percent said being in control of one's life was their ideal of maleness.
A vast majority of them said the topmost male quality was putting love ahead of sex.
Just one percent rated a great sex life as their ideal.
Three percent plumped for career and financial success.
According to Canadian Michael Sand, who led the survey of 27, 839 men across many cultures and age groups in the eight countries, the new study has shattered may stereotypes about maleness.
``Men routinely said (during the survey) that being in good health, having a good family life, having a harmonious relationship with my wife or my partner, is way more important than a successful career, having a nice home, having a satisfying sex life,'' he was quoted as saying by a Canadian news agency.
Sand said,``Being seen as honourable - I think men are telling us that how my community views my integrity and my values system is important to me. They're also saying `I want to be seen as a good father, a successful partner, far more than I want to be seen as a stud'.'
According to him, all these things ``point to the importance -- not in keeping with stereotypes -- of interpersonal relationships to men, as well as to women of course.''
Sand said the study debunks what beer commercials and Hollywood gossip sheets project men to - chasing babes, fleeing commitment, abandoning their kids, and having trouble staying sober.
``Just as we know all women are not Playboy bunnies, we know all men are not ravening sex fiends interested in the next conquest. These stereotypes -- I think we all know they're not real
``This is why it's so important to do research -- to challenge our assumptions,'' said the Canadian researcher.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
How to enhance your fertility naturally
If you have determined that you want to try and have a biological child, there are many considerations to keep in mind as you go through the maze of fertility treatments. And while no one can absolutely guarantee your success, doing all that you can to enhance your fertility with proper diet, lifestyle and complementary therapies can really boost your chances. Whatever age you are, a healthy body is more likely to receive and nurture a fertilized egg. Getting healthy doesn’t happen overnight, so the sooner you start, the better.
* Get on a pre-natal multivitamin. This is standard procedure for any couple wanting to get pregnant. And don’t forget the father! If he (or a donor) is contributing sperm, maximize his nutrition as well, especially his zinc status.
* Quit using stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine Cigarette smoke (including secondhand smoke) has been linked to spontaneous miscarriage, accelerated egg loss and menopause, and the inability for ovaries to produce estrogen. Smokers require twice as many tries at IVF before they are successful. Women who smoke are more likely to have ectopic pregnancies, low birth weight babies, and episodes of SIDS. Men who smoke have lower sperm counts. Many studies have shown that caffeine consumption is related to infertility. Caffeine is also linked to insulin resistance, which can halt ovulation. Studies performed on rats and humans suggest a link between heavy alcohol consumption and lower fertility rates. Other studies show that women who drink alcohol while pregnant pass abnormalities on to their babies, known as fetal alcohol syndrome.
* Cleanse your system. Before you get pregnant, do a gentle detox like the one we describe in our quick-cleanse plan. Start eating organic food whenever possible and steer clear of toxic cleaners and solvents. Just by being alive today, you are inundated with manmade chemicals that can wreak havoc with your hormones and other vital systems. Endocrine disruptors, certain types of chemicals which mimic hormones in the body, are especially troublesome when you are trying to conceive. Do what you can to reduce your body burden by avoiding obvious sources of contamination. Read the labels on everything, from cosmetics and soaps to garden fertilizers and air fresheners. Replace plastics with natural substances like glass or wood. Never microwave in plastic containers or wraps — in fact, you may want to forego the microwave altogether. In addition to obvious sources of contamination, you might also look into disruptive organisms. Systemic Candida, parasites or bacteria can alter your hormonal balance and decrease fertility. So work with a qualified practitioner to see if this is a piece of the puzzle.
* Get more exercise — or less. BMI plays a significant role in fertility. A woman with 10–15% excess body fat may have an estrogen imbalance which can cause ovulation problems. On the other hand, body fat levels at 10–15% below normal may completely disrupt a woman’s cycle. If you have irregular or nonexistent periods due to excessive or strenuous exercise, consider reducing your activity or adopting a gentler form of exercise like yoga or qi gong.
* Reduce stress wherever you can. This is good advice for anyone, whether or not they are trying to have a baby. Everyday stress is at the root of many conditions and diseases, including fatigue, weight gain, depression, headaches, and you might as well add infertility in there, too. Studies have shown direct links between the adrenal gland, which is responsible for your stress response, and ovulation. Elevated cortisol levels in your blood can cause you to stop ovulating, a condition called anovulation. Environmental, emotional, and physical stress are also known to cause low sperm counts. The fact that many couples have to schedule sex doesn’t help matters. You and your partner may feel like slaves to your ovulation calendar and temperature charts — hardly a low-stress approach. So, I recommend postponing the charts and schedules as long as possible.
* Restore your hormonal balance. The older you are, the more crucial it is to have good hormonal health if you want to conceive. As you creep toward menopause, your body is preparing itself to not have any more children. If you are imbalanced, it may manifest as missed or irregular periods and ovulation cycles. Using bioidentical progesterone support for a few months may help your system kick back into regular cycles by restoring the right ratio of progesterone to estrogen. Talk to your healthcare practitioner if you think this may apply to you. Also, cutting down on simple carbs, refined sugars and processed foods will help balance your insulin levels and boost your metabolism, which will help when you try to balance your sex hormones. Remember, you can’t balance the minor hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, for example) without first balancing your major hormones (insulin and glucagon).
* Try an alternative therapy. Homeopathy, naturopathy, Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine use ancient techniques, such as herbal remedies, cleanses, and acupuncture, to increase fertility. These approaches usually work best if both partners (producers of egg and sperm) are involved. These methods treat each individual holistically, trying to balance specific deficiencies and increase your life force. (In TCM, this is called qi; in Ayurvedic medicine it is referred to as prana.) In TCM, practitioners will also assess the nature of the energy flow between a couple and adapt their treatments accordingly. These techniques have helped people become parents for millennia and can be undertaken in addition to any other measures.
You’re more in control than you think
Just as infertility is usually a combination of causes, the path to conception usually takes a combination of changes, treatments and options. Don’t be afraid to combine the ancient with the modern, or the natural with the high-tech. As I said before, your way will be individual. Finding the right professionals to guide you may be critical. I’ll give you a simple shortcut right here: stop worrying about what–ifs and start acting. Know down deep that you will be a mother if you truly want to be. Your fertility is not tied to your reproductive organs. To truly accept this you may have to rewrite the script in your head, but you are strong and you will get there — and we are here to help.
Taking control of your needs and your whole health picture can do wonders in terms of fertility and in every aspect of your life. Feel free to visit Women to Women’s library for other articles exploring the health-related topics women ask us about most.
* Get on a pre-natal multivitamin. This is standard procedure for any couple wanting to get pregnant. And don’t forget the father! If he (or a donor) is contributing sperm, maximize his nutrition as well, especially his zinc status.
* Quit using stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine Cigarette smoke (including secondhand smoke) has been linked to spontaneous miscarriage, accelerated egg loss and menopause, and the inability for ovaries to produce estrogen. Smokers require twice as many tries at IVF before they are successful. Women who smoke are more likely to have ectopic pregnancies, low birth weight babies, and episodes of SIDS. Men who smoke have lower sperm counts. Many studies have shown that caffeine consumption is related to infertility. Caffeine is also linked to insulin resistance, which can halt ovulation. Studies performed on rats and humans suggest a link between heavy alcohol consumption and lower fertility rates. Other studies show that women who drink alcohol while pregnant pass abnormalities on to their babies, known as fetal alcohol syndrome.
* Cleanse your system. Before you get pregnant, do a gentle detox like the one we describe in our quick-cleanse plan. Start eating organic food whenever possible and steer clear of toxic cleaners and solvents. Just by being alive today, you are inundated with manmade chemicals that can wreak havoc with your hormones and other vital systems. Endocrine disruptors, certain types of chemicals which mimic hormones in the body, are especially troublesome when you are trying to conceive. Do what you can to reduce your body burden by avoiding obvious sources of contamination. Read the labels on everything, from cosmetics and soaps to garden fertilizers and air fresheners. Replace plastics with natural substances like glass or wood. Never microwave in plastic containers or wraps — in fact, you may want to forego the microwave altogether. In addition to obvious sources of contamination, you might also look into disruptive organisms. Systemic Candida, parasites or bacteria can alter your hormonal balance and decrease fertility. So work with a qualified practitioner to see if this is a piece of the puzzle.
* Get more exercise — or less. BMI plays a significant role in fertility. A woman with 10–15% excess body fat may have an estrogen imbalance which can cause ovulation problems. On the other hand, body fat levels at 10–15% below normal may completely disrupt a woman’s cycle. If you have irregular or nonexistent periods due to excessive or strenuous exercise, consider reducing your activity or adopting a gentler form of exercise like yoga or qi gong.
* Reduce stress wherever you can. This is good advice for anyone, whether or not they are trying to have a baby. Everyday stress is at the root of many conditions and diseases, including fatigue, weight gain, depression, headaches, and you might as well add infertility in there, too. Studies have shown direct links between the adrenal gland, which is responsible for your stress response, and ovulation. Elevated cortisol levels in your blood can cause you to stop ovulating, a condition called anovulation. Environmental, emotional, and physical stress are also known to cause low sperm counts. The fact that many couples have to schedule sex doesn’t help matters. You and your partner may feel like slaves to your ovulation calendar and temperature charts — hardly a low-stress approach. So, I recommend postponing the charts and schedules as long as possible.
* Restore your hormonal balance. The older you are, the more crucial it is to have good hormonal health if you want to conceive. As you creep toward menopause, your body is preparing itself to not have any more children. If you are imbalanced, it may manifest as missed or irregular periods and ovulation cycles. Using bioidentical progesterone support for a few months may help your system kick back into regular cycles by restoring the right ratio of progesterone to estrogen. Talk to your healthcare practitioner if you think this may apply to you. Also, cutting down on simple carbs, refined sugars and processed foods will help balance your insulin levels and boost your metabolism, which will help when you try to balance your sex hormones. Remember, you can’t balance the minor hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, for example) without first balancing your major hormones (insulin and glucagon).
* Try an alternative therapy. Homeopathy, naturopathy, Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine use ancient techniques, such as herbal remedies, cleanses, and acupuncture, to increase fertility. These approaches usually work best if both partners (producers of egg and sperm) are involved. These methods treat each individual holistically, trying to balance specific deficiencies and increase your life force. (In TCM, this is called qi; in Ayurvedic medicine it is referred to as prana.) In TCM, practitioners will also assess the nature of the energy flow between a couple and adapt their treatments accordingly. These techniques have helped people become parents for millennia and can be undertaken in addition to any other measures.
You’re more in control than you think
Just as infertility is usually a combination of causes, the path to conception usually takes a combination of changes, treatments and options. Don’t be afraid to combine the ancient with the modern, or the natural with the high-tech. As I said before, your way will be individual. Finding the right professionals to guide you may be critical. I’ll give you a simple shortcut right here: stop worrying about what–ifs and start acting. Know down deep that you will be a mother if you truly want to be. Your fertility is not tied to your reproductive organs. To truly accept this you may have to rewrite the script in your head, but you are strong and you will get there — and we are here to help.
Taking control of your needs and your whole health picture can do wonders in terms of fertility and in every aspect of your life. Feel free to visit Women to Women’s library for other articles exploring the health-related topics women ask us about most.
HEALTHY SEX
The first step of healthy sex is to maintain sexual hygiene.Sexual hygiene involves developing & maintaining a healthy sexuality & preventing sexual disorders. One should clean the private parts and is not a taboo. It also draws early attention to any local pathology and prevents the development of any skin infections. One should clean the genital organ, especially retracting the foreskin up to the base of the glans penis. This prevents the development of phimosis, which is a painful condition & may lead to complications like paraphimosis. A woman must wash the vagina in a direction away from vagina and not towards it, to prevent fecal contamination of the vagina & urethra.
Sexual knowledge is an essential requirement for a healthy sex life. Do not be under pressure to perform or respond. Try to get familiar with your own & your partner's anatomy. Communicate mutual likes & dislikes. Adequate communication is vital for a healthy & mutually satisfying sex life. Avoid being monotonous. Be innovative & try different positions. Devote adequate time for foreplay and afterplay. Remember sensual is sex. Avoid stress, smoking, and alcohol. Proper weight, balanced diet, regular exercises & yoga are essential for a better sex life.What is good for the whole body is good for sex.
Romance need not end with marriage. Romance rejuvenates passion, making one's sex life more enjoyable. Do not carry the work problems into the bedroom. Be stress free to enjoy a sexual bliss.
Always avoid the company of prostitutes. If you go to them,then you will ruin your wealth, health & youth, and many dangerous diseases may affect you.
Always avoid too much of spicy food, alcohol or wine, tobacco or drugs & excess of tea & coffee. Get your self thoroughly examined by a competent physician/practitioner before marriage. If you suffer from any disorder/ disease immediately consult the competent physician & get treated.
How often coitus should be made?
Generally it is not replied by anyone. Since it is a personal matter and it differs from one another. This depend upon the sexual capacity, desire for sex, nature of his/ her work, physical health & natural urge. The frequency of coitus is much more among the couples who are in their early twenties or in the early months of their marriage than among those who have been married for longGoogle
Sexual knowledge is an essential requirement for a healthy sex life. Do not be under pressure to perform or respond. Try to get familiar with your own & your partner's anatomy. Communicate mutual likes & dislikes. Adequate communication is vital for a healthy & mutually satisfying sex life. Avoid being monotonous. Be innovative & try different positions. Devote adequate time for foreplay and afterplay. Remember sensual is sex. Avoid stress, smoking, and alcohol. Proper weight, balanced diet, regular exercises & yoga are essential for a better sex life.What is good for the whole body is good for sex.
Romance need not end with marriage. Romance rejuvenates passion, making one's sex life more enjoyable. Do not carry the work problems into the bedroom. Be stress free to enjoy a sexual bliss.
Always avoid the company of prostitutes. If you go to them,then you will ruin your wealth, health & youth, and many dangerous diseases may affect you.
Always avoid too much of spicy food, alcohol or wine, tobacco or drugs & excess of tea & coffee. Get your self thoroughly examined by a competent physician/practitioner before marriage. If you suffer from any disorder/ disease immediately consult the competent physician & get treated.
How often coitus should be made?
Generally it is not replied by anyone. Since it is a personal matter and it differs from one another. This depend upon the sexual capacity, desire for sex, nature of his/ her work, physical health & natural urge. The frequency of coitus is much more among the couples who are in their early twenties or in the early months of their marriage than among those who have been married for longGoogle
Female Sex Enhancer
More Women Suffer From Reduced Sex Drive
According to statistics, 48% of women surveyed said they experienced reduced or even non-existent sex drive. Many women are depressed, anxious and uneasy about this situation. But there’s no need to feel that way any longer.
FemElle Sex Enhancement Pill helps women of all ages regain sexual motivation and desire that had been missing. An increased libido leads to greater sexual intimacy and greater satisfaction in your sexual relationships.
FemElle can restore your desire and enjoyment quickly and easily – while promoting sexual health and intimacy with your partner.
FemElle: Guaranteed or your money back
FemElle is billed discretely to your credit card and shipped discretely as well. In addition FemElle is guaranteed. If FemElle doesn’t enhance your sex life, simply return it for a full refund. There’s no risk and no reason not to order FemElle today and surprise your partner with the passion you always knew you had.
FemElle: All-Natural Sex Enhancement Pill
FemElle uses all-natural herbal and botanical ingredients to stimulate desire and enhance your sex drive. These ingredients are:
L-Arginine HCL - This is an amino acid found in many foods such as meat, dairy products, fish, poultry, etc. It is involved in cell division, wound healing, removal of ammonia from the body, immunity to illness, and the secretion of important hormones. It is used by the body to make nitric oxide which relaxes blood vessels.
Epimedium Sagittatum Extract – In a Chinese study, Epimedium sagittatum was proven to have a sex enhancing effect and improve the quality of life of the participants. This herb is sometimes known as “horny goat weed,” a loose translation of the Chinese name, Yin Yang Huo.
Damiana Leaf - This herb is considered by many to be an aphrodisiac. Damiana Leaf helps to restore the natural sexual capacities and functions, especially for the exhausted body. Damiana works as a stimulating nerve tonic used for debility, depression, and lethargy. Used for female disorders as it helps to balance female hormones.
Mucuna Pruriens (Cowhage) – An Indian herb that is historically used as an aphrodisiac.
L-Dopa – This compound stimulates the release of human growth hormone in the body. Increased levels of HGH provide enhanced libido and sexual performance, as well as an improved mood and sense of well-being.
Yohimbe Extract – The Physician’s Desk Reference says that it “has activity as an aphrodisiac.” Yohimbeincreases blood flow to the genitalia.
All these potent, natural ingredients make FemElle sex enhancement pills the best available today. Try FemElle today – it’s 100% guaranteed to help you recover your sexual desire!
According to statistics, 48% of women surveyed said they experienced reduced or even non-existent sex drive. Many women are depressed, anxious and uneasy about this situation. But there’s no need to feel that way any longer.
FemElle Sex Enhancement Pill helps women of all ages regain sexual motivation and desire that had been missing. An increased libido leads to greater sexual intimacy and greater satisfaction in your sexual relationships.
FemElle can restore your desire and enjoyment quickly and easily – while promoting sexual health and intimacy with your partner.
FemElle: Guaranteed or your money back
FemElle is billed discretely to your credit card and shipped discretely as well. In addition FemElle is guaranteed. If FemElle doesn’t enhance your sex life, simply return it for a full refund. There’s no risk and no reason not to order FemElle today and surprise your partner with the passion you always knew you had.
FemElle: All-Natural Sex Enhancement Pill
FemElle uses all-natural herbal and botanical ingredients to stimulate desire and enhance your sex drive. These ingredients are:
L-Arginine HCL - This is an amino acid found in many foods such as meat, dairy products, fish, poultry, etc. It is involved in cell division, wound healing, removal of ammonia from the body, immunity to illness, and the secretion of important hormones. It is used by the body to make nitric oxide which relaxes blood vessels.
Epimedium Sagittatum Extract – In a Chinese study, Epimedium sagittatum was proven to have a sex enhancing effect and improve the quality of life of the participants. This herb is sometimes known as “horny goat weed,” a loose translation of the Chinese name, Yin Yang Huo.
Damiana Leaf - This herb is considered by many to be an aphrodisiac. Damiana Leaf helps to restore the natural sexual capacities and functions, especially for the exhausted body. Damiana works as a stimulating nerve tonic used for debility, depression, and lethargy. Used for female disorders as it helps to balance female hormones.
Mucuna Pruriens (Cowhage) – An Indian herb that is historically used as an aphrodisiac.
L-Dopa – This compound stimulates the release of human growth hormone in the body. Increased levels of HGH provide enhanced libido and sexual performance, as well as an improved mood and sense of well-being.
Yohimbe Extract – The Physician’s Desk Reference says that it “has activity as an aphrodisiac.” Yohimbeincreases blood flow to the genitalia.
All these potent, natural ingredients make FemElle sex enhancement pills the best available today. Try FemElle today – it’s 100% guaranteed to help you recover your sexual desire!
Safe Sex in Middle Life
So many women coming to the clinic are telling me that they’re enjoying a renewed sex life. Whether married, single, or just re-emerging on the dating scene, more women from the “free love” generation are now starting a whole new sexual revolution. This is great news! But with more Baby Boomers enjoying revitalized sex lives, the risk for women in midlife contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection is on the rise as well.
Not long ago one of my patients told me, “When I was younger, we only worried about getting pregnant or crabs. Now that I’m divorced, I realize it’s a whole new world!” And it’s true: the plethora of STD’s around broach all age groups and social classes in ways we just cannot ignore.
Too many menopausal and perimenopausal women aren’t being screened for STD’s by healthcare providers, and infection is often undetected and underreported. Just looking at HIV, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that approximately 15% of all new HIV diagnoses are among the over 50 set for both men and women, and increasingly, the rate of people in midlife losing their lives to HIV is rising. This is a huge wake-up call for all of us.
At Women to Women, we believe that talking openly about safe sex is extremely important for women of all ages. For the most part, sexual infections don’t care how old you are, but as our hormones change as we grow older, so can our susceptibility to STD’s. So whether you’re enjoying a great relationship with your partner of many years or finding a new relationship after being widowed, separated or divorced, I’d like to talk about how sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) and STD’s affect women, particularly in perimenopause and beyond, and cover what you can do to protect yourself to have a healthy sex life at any age.
Why are STD’s a concern for women in menopause and perimenopause?
Whether due to age, experience or monogamy, many women (and men) in midlife think contracting an STD is a concern for the younger set, and doesn’t apply to them. Unfortunately, this isn’t true, and here’s a good example why: during my training, I saw a 45-year-old patient for her annual exam. She’d been divorced for several years and had just enjoyed a very hot affair with a much younger man in New York City. After a 20-year-marriage that ended badly, this boyfriend made her feel young again in many ways. She still had her copper IUD in place for birth control, and with her monogamous past and this nice young man who adored her, she felt she was at very low risk for contracting an STD. Unfortunately, he was under 30 and they were in New York City which made for a high-risk dynamic due to his age and the high incidence of Chlamydia in that region.
She was surprised when I suggested we test her along with doing her routine Pap and pelvic exam, but she consented. She was even more surprised when it came back positive because she was asymptomatic (without symptoms). So we discussed whether or not the IUD alone was the best choice for her as a method of birth control, since it didn’t provide any protection from STD’s. She decided to keep it in, but had to get used to using condoms as well for safe-sex protection, and also had to learn how to say “Let’s have the talk” before intimacy with anyone new.
I’m finding that women today still carry much of the burden for STD screening. Relying on your partner to make sure he or she isn’t carrying an STD isn’t a good idea for either one of you, but especially if you’re with someone new. Men are seldom asked about STD screening, and if his doctor or healthcare practitioner hasn’t laid it on the line for him, it’s quite possible your partner hasn’t been screened simply because he didn’t know his risks or his options. A man is also more likely to get tested only when his female partner has a problem or when his new partner insists on screening before having sex.
All of this means that women typically need to ask first (no matter how “clean-cut” your partner may seem!) because there are a wide range of STD’s that women in midlife can be susceptible to.
If you do find yourself with an infection, don’t panic — speak with your healthcare practitioner and gather all the information you need, communicate with your partner and begin to seek treatment. Some infections can be readily cured, like Chlamydia, gonorrhea and Trichomonas, while others remain with you for life but may be controlled, like the herpes, HPV and genital wart viruses.
Bear in mind that STD’s are actually very common, and it’s not something to be ashamed of. Roughly 65 million people in the United States are living with a so-called “incurable” STD, and approximately 15 million men and women in the United States develop a new STD each year — in other words, one third of all Americans have or have had an STD at some point in their lives.
But the commonality of STD’s is even more reason to make sure you and your partner are screened and cleared, and this is where it’s essential that we communicate our sexual histories and/or begin a conversation about getting tested with our partners, even if we’ve been in a monogamous relationship for a long time.
I’ve been with the same partner for so long — should I be concerned about STD’s?
Don’t get me wrong: monogamy is a terrific strategy for enjoying safe sex, and finding the right partner and having both of you screened and cleared for STD’s is just the best recipe for healthy and exciting lovemaking! But women in monogamous relationships are not completely safe from the risk of contracting an infection. Why?
The primary reason is because of the asymptomatic nature of so many sexually transmitted infections. In other words, if you or your partner were exposed a long time ago, there’s still a possibility of transmitting a virus — and it’s not unusual for people with STD’s to remain symptom-free for years, unaware that they have an infection, or that they could be spreading one to their partners.
Also, men are more likely than women to be asymptomatic for many types of infections, so unless your partner has been screened and goes in for check-ups regularly, there’s no way of knowing that sex is completely safe. To add more fuel to the fire, it might not come as a surprise that the chances of your male partner having already been (or recently) screened aren’t great — statistically, men are less likely to go in for check-ups than women on a regular basis. This is why it’s so important for women to put their health first when it comes to sex, no matter what form your relationship with your partner takes, or how long you’ve been together.
On top of this, monogamy unfortunately isn’t always what it seems, either. In one recent poll, about one in five adults in “committed” relationships, or 22%, had cheated on their current partner, and nearly half of people polled admit to being unfaithful at some point in their lives. These figures may or may not apply to you, but a reality check now and again is wise for a woman at any age, particularly since partners can carry viruses without symptoms for years.
So even if you think the chances of you having or getting an STD are very slim, I advise all women who come to the clinic, moms and aunts, and anyone mentoring younger people, to practice what they preach to teens and start taking charge of their sexuality again by getting themselves screened.
Just like any other health issue, the more you know the better, and perimenopausal women especially have some unique preventative health issues to be aware of when it comes to STD’s.
Shifting hormones, the immune system and your sexual body
Many women don’t realize that how well we take care of our immune systems matters a great deal to the health of our sex lives. Mature women experience hormonal changes that can affect the integrity of our genital tissues, leaving them more fragile, and potentially more susceptible to infection if exposed. And if our immunity isn’t as strong when a trace of an infection enters our body, we’re at a higher risk for infection.
Natural hormone shifting that gives us lower estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness and thinning of the tissues, making them more prone to tearing during sex. Such tears, even small ones, provide an easy portal of entry for viruses like HIV.
Some vaginal symptoms can be a little harder to differentiate in perimenopause, too. For example, what may seem like a fissure from low estrogen or yeast may actually be an atypical herpes presentation. Your urethra can be affected by lower estrogen as well, making it more vulnerable as a portal to infections like Chlamydia and bacterial UTI’s. And Chlamydia of the bladder is often overlooked because it is not part of a standard urine test.
But a great strategy for protecting yourself from many sexually transmitted infections is to begin by taking good care of your vaginal ecology. Using a sexual lubricant or topical vaginal estrogen can help with tears, and a good probiotic containing healthy levels of lactobacilli and friendly yeast can also help inhibit urogenital infections.
Most importantly, make sure that your vagina is working the way “nature” intended by avoiding douching. Douching was developed as a response to the notion that your vagina isn’t “clean,” which couldn’t be further from the truth. In my training, I was taught that the vagina is like an amazing self-cleaning oven!
Many of the tiny lactobacilli naturally present in a woman’s vagina produce lactic acid, which keeps the pH of the vagina just right, along with protein inhibitors that ward off many troublesome pathogens. The vagina has everything it needs to clean itself out regularly — this is what the normal healthy secretions are for. Research shows that douching robs the vagina of these cleansing secretions, and actually increases bacterial imbalance and risk of contracting many types of STD’s, including HIV.
Learning about precautions we can take to prevent these kinds of infections as our bodies change is so important for women in midlife, especially for women who think they’re at a very low risk for infection, and/or who haven’t spoken with their partners about safe sex.
Talking to your partner about safe sex
For many women, it can be just plain embarrassing to talk with their partners about an approach to safe sex, especially on a first or second date. But the reality is that we need to care enough about ourselves to get over the embarrassment, and put our health and well-being first. If you think things are moving in a direction that may involve sex, talk about condoms or testing before it’s too late. (This may be the first date for some or the fifth for others.)
I try to advise women not to feel bad when requesting their partners to get screened — STD testing for men is easy compared to the speculum exams we undergo annually! And talking about safe sex is also a great way to open the lines of communication in a relationship by becoming closer and learning more about your partner.
Try simply stating that you’re planning to get tested, and that you think it’s a good idea for him or her to as well. This takes any suspicion away from one person, and puts you both on the same level. And let’s face it: at this point you’ve both probably been intimate with other people, who have been intimate with other people and so on. It’s not unrealistic to think that maybe somewhere down the line one or both of you was exposed to something.
Sometimes, however, there isn’t time for testing or even a discussion, and in this case, it’s good to keep condoms with you at all times.
How protective is a condom?
At Women to Women, we recommend using condoms as the best strategy if you both haven’t been screened, and until you and your partner are comfortable with monogamy as your next strategy for safe sex. That means using them until you know that you’re both infection-free — particularly HIV-free. Since HIV can remain undetectable for up to six months, using condoms is a good idea for at least half a year, up to a full year.
Studies indicate that when used correctly, latex condoms are the best thing we have available to us to reduce infections transmitted through bodily fluids, like semen and blood — but only if they are put on before contact or penetration. That makes using a condom critical in reducing your risk of contracting HIV, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and Trichomonas.
Statistics on the effectiveness of condoms vary a bit with how we use them. As Dr. Cheryl Gibson, the medical director of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, points out: “Contraceptive Technology states the effectiveness of condoms for contraception at 88% in typical use, and 97% in perfect use. For STD prevention...we generally quote a greater than 90% chance of reduction.”
Those are certainly favorable numbers, but keep in mind that nothing is totally safe. Condoms can break. They also only cover a limited portion of the genitals, and viruses like herpes and HPV-causing warts can be present anywhere in the genital region. But even though condoms don’t equal a free-for-all, if used properly, they are the best thing we have for protection. So I encourage women of all ages to keep condoms in their purses, their bathrooms, their cars, their computer bags — wherever!
Even if we like the idea of being pursued by a new partner, I think we can be realistic at this stage of the sexual revolution. There is equality in safe sex. Women can feel empowered by keeping their own stash of condoms handy, and if he refuses to use one at all, stop and think before going any further — remember, this is your health we’re talking about.
Redefining safe sex in midlife
The risk for contracting an STD increases directly with the number of sex partners we have over a lifetime, so we want to choose our partners wisely. They should be worth it — and worthy of us.
Most of us recognize that nothing is totally risk-free other than abstinence, and even abstinence will not protect us from every kind of sexual infection. Barrier methods like condoms to prevent exposure to bodily fluids can be a great step to reduce risks. This is ideal when new partners are on the horizon and you’re not sure yet if he is “Mr. Right” or just “Mr. Right-Now.”
And remember that there’s a risk of contracting an STD at any point in your life for any sexually active woman, regardless of her age, sexual orientation, or if it’s been awhile since she was a part of “the dating scene.” Even married women and women in monogamous relationships should come in for screening.
But if you haven’t been screened, the two pieces of wisdom to remember for practicing safe sex now are “communication” and “condoms.” Beginning or continuing a conversation about safe sex can only deepen and strengthen a relationship, and how you define those terms is up to you. We can learn so much about ourselves, and our partners, by trying.
The best sex is healthy sex
There are so many health benefits to sex, and regardless of your age, great sex is healthy sex, both emotionally and physically. Thinking about safe sex doesn’t make you selfish, nor does it lessen the excitement of your sex life in general. Far from it!
Taking care of ourselves means that we’re taking care of those closest to us — focusing on your own body’s health gives you so much more to offer your partner. Practicing sex safely only means more pleasure, spontaneity and enjoyment for the both of you.
Our Personal Program is a great place to start
The Personal Program promotes natural hormonal balance with nutritional supplements, our exclusive endocrine support formula, dietary and lifestyle guidance, and optional phone consultations with our Nurse–Educators. It is a convenient, at-home version of what we recommend to all our patients at the clinic.
* To learn more about the Program, go to How the Personal Program works.
* To select the Program that’s right for your symptoms, go to Choose the plan that works for you.
* To assess your symptoms, take our on-line Hormonal Health Profile.
* If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us toll-free at 1-800-798-7902. We’re here to listen and help.
Not long ago one of my patients told me, “When I was younger, we only worried about getting pregnant or crabs. Now that I’m divorced, I realize it’s a whole new world!” And it’s true: the plethora of STD’s around broach all age groups and social classes in ways we just cannot ignore.
Too many menopausal and perimenopausal women aren’t being screened for STD’s by healthcare providers, and infection is often undetected and underreported. Just looking at HIV, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that approximately 15% of all new HIV diagnoses are among the over 50 set for both men and women, and increasingly, the rate of people in midlife losing their lives to HIV is rising. This is a huge wake-up call for all of us.
At Women to Women, we believe that talking openly about safe sex is extremely important for women of all ages. For the most part, sexual infections don’t care how old you are, but as our hormones change as we grow older, so can our susceptibility to STD’s. So whether you’re enjoying a great relationship with your partner of many years or finding a new relationship after being widowed, separated or divorced, I’d like to talk about how sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) and STD’s affect women, particularly in perimenopause and beyond, and cover what you can do to protect yourself to have a healthy sex life at any age.
Why are STD’s a concern for women in menopause and perimenopause?
Whether due to age, experience or monogamy, many women (and men) in midlife think contracting an STD is a concern for the younger set, and doesn’t apply to them. Unfortunately, this isn’t true, and here’s a good example why: during my training, I saw a 45-year-old patient for her annual exam. She’d been divorced for several years and had just enjoyed a very hot affair with a much younger man in New York City. After a 20-year-marriage that ended badly, this boyfriend made her feel young again in many ways. She still had her copper IUD in place for birth control, and with her monogamous past and this nice young man who adored her, she felt she was at very low risk for contracting an STD. Unfortunately, he was under 30 and they were in New York City which made for a high-risk dynamic due to his age and the high incidence of Chlamydia in that region.
She was surprised when I suggested we test her along with doing her routine Pap and pelvic exam, but she consented. She was even more surprised when it came back positive because she was asymptomatic (without symptoms). So we discussed whether or not the IUD alone was the best choice for her as a method of birth control, since it didn’t provide any protection from STD’s. She decided to keep it in, but had to get used to using condoms as well for safe-sex protection, and also had to learn how to say “Let’s have the talk” before intimacy with anyone new.
I’m finding that women today still carry much of the burden for STD screening. Relying on your partner to make sure he or she isn’t carrying an STD isn’t a good idea for either one of you, but especially if you’re with someone new. Men are seldom asked about STD screening, and if his doctor or healthcare practitioner hasn’t laid it on the line for him, it’s quite possible your partner hasn’t been screened simply because he didn’t know his risks or his options. A man is also more likely to get tested only when his female partner has a problem or when his new partner insists on screening before having sex.
All of this means that women typically need to ask first (no matter how “clean-cut” your partner may seem!) because there are a wide range of STD’s that women in midlife can be susceptible to.
If you do find yourself with an infection, don’t panic — speak with your healthcare practitioner and gather all the information you need, communicate with your partner and begin to seek treatment. Some infections can be readily cured, like Chlamydia, gonorrhea and Trichomonas, while others remain with you for life but may be controlled, like the herpes, HPV and genital wart viruses.
Bear in mind that STD’s are actually very common, and it’s not something to be ashamed of. Roughly 65 million people in the United States are living with a so-called “incurable” STD, and approximately 15 million men and women in the United States develop a new STD each year — in other words, one third of all Americans have or have had an STD at some point in their lives.
But the commonality of STD’s is even more reason to make sure you and your partner are screened and cleared, and this is where it’s essential that we communicate our sexual histories and/or begin a conversation about getting tested with our partners, even if we’ve been in a monogamous relationship for a long time.
I’ve been with the same partner for so long — should I be concerned about STD’s?
Don’t get me wrong: monogamy is a terrific strategy for enjoying safe sex, and finding the right partner and having both of you screened and cleared for STD’s is just the best recipe for healthy and exciting lovemaking! But women in monogamous relationships are not completely safe from the risk of contracting an infection. Why?
The primary reason is because of the asymptomatic nature of so many sexually transmitted infections. In other words, if you or your partner were exposed a long time ago, there’s still a possibility of transmitting a virus — and it’s not unusual for people with STD’s to remain symptom-free for years, unaware that they have an infection, or that they could be spreading one to their partners.
Also, men are more likely than women to be asymptomatic for many types of infections, so unless your partner has been screened and goes in for check-ups regularly, there’s no way of knowing that sex is completely safe. To add more fuel to the fire, it might not come as a surprise that the chances of your male partner having already been (or recently) screened aren’t great — statistically, men are less likely to go in for check-ups than women on a regular basis. This is why it’s so important for women to put their health first when it comes to sex, no matter what form your relationship with your partner takes, or how long you’ve been together.
On top of this, monogamy unfortunately isn’t always what it seems, either. In one recent poll, about one in five adults in “committed” relationships, or 22%, had cheated on their current partner, and nearly half of people polled admit to being unfaithful at some point in their lives. These figures may or may not apply to you, but a reality check now and again is wise for a woman at any age, particularly since partners can carry viruses without symptoms for years.
So even if you think the chances of you having or getting an STD are very slim, I advise all women who come to the clinic, moms and aunts, and anyone mentoring younger people, to practice what they preach to teens and start taking charge of their sexuality again by getting themselves screened.
Just like any other health issue, the more you know the better, and perimenopausal women especially have some unique preventative health issues to be aware of when it comes to STD’s.
Shifting hormones, the immune system and your sexual body
Many women don’t realize that how well we take care of our immune systems matters a great deal to the health of our sex lives. Mature women experience hormonal changes that can affect the integrity of our genital tissues, leaving them more fragile, and potentially more susceptible to infection if exposed. And if our immunity isn’t as strong when a trace of an infection enters our body, we’re at a higher risk for infection.
Natural hormone shifting that gives us lower estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness and thinning of the tissues, making them more prone to tearing during sex. Such tears, even small ones, provide an easy portal of entry for viruses like HIV.
Some vaginal symptoms can be a little harder to differentiate in perimenopause, too. For example, what may seem like a fissure from low estrogen or yeast may actually be an atypical herpes presentation. Your urethra can be affected by lower estrogen as well, making it more vulnerable as a portal to infections like Chlamydia and bacterial UTI’s. And Chlamydia of the bladder is often overlooked because it is not part of a standard urine test.
But a great strategy for protecting yourself from many sexually transmitted infections is to begin by taking good care of your vaginal ecology. Using a sexual lubricant or topical vaginal estrogen can help with tears, and a good probiotic containing healthy levels of lactobacilli and friendly yeast can also help inhibit urogenital infections.
Most importantly, make sure that your vagina is working the way “nature” intended by avoiding douching. Douching was developed as a response to the notion that your vagina isn’t “clean,” which couldn’t be further from the truth. In my training, I was taught that the vagina is like an amazing self-cleaning oven!
Many of the tiny lactobacilli naturally present in a woman’s vagina produce lactic acid, which keeps the pH of the vagina just right, along with protein inhibitors that ward off many troublesome pathogens. The vagina has everything it needs to clean itself out regularly — this is what the normal healthy secretions are for. Research shows that douching robs the vagina of these cleansing secretions, and actually increases bacterial imbalance and risk of contracting many types of STD’s, including HIV.
Learning about precautions we can take to prevent these kinds of infections as our bodies change is so important for women in midlife, especially for women who think they’re at a very low risk for infection, and/or who haven’t spoken with their partners about safe sex.
Talking to your partner about safe sex
For many women, it can be just plain embarrassing to talk with their partners about an approach to safe sex, especially on a first or second date. But the reality is that we need to care enough about ourselves to get over the embarrassment, and put our health and well-being first. If you think things are moving in a direction that may involve sex, talk about condoms or testing before it’s too late. (This may be the first date for some or the fifth for others.)
I try to advise women not to feel bad when requesting their partners to get screened — STD testing for men is easy compared to the speculum exams we undergo annually! And talking about safe sex is also a great way to open the lines of communication in a relationship by becoming closer and learning more about your partner.
Try simply stating that you’re planning to get tested, and that you think it’s a good idea for him or her to as well. This takes any suspicion away from one person, and puts you both on the same level. And let’s face it: at this point you’ve both probably been intimate with other people, who have been intimate with other people and so on. It’s not unrealistic to think that maybe somewhere down the line one or both of you was exposed to something.
Sometimes, however, there isn’t time for testing or even a discussion, and in this case, it’s good to keep condoms with you at all times.
How protective is a condom?
At Women to Women, we recommend using condoms as the best strategy if you both haven’t been screened, and until you and your partner are comfortable with monogamy as your next strategy for safe sex. That means using them until you know that you’re both infection-free — particularly HIV-free. Since HIV can remain undetectable for up to six months, using condoms is a good idea for at least half a year, up to a full year.
Studies indicate that when used correctly, latex condoms are the best thing we have available to us to reduce infections transmitted through bodily fluids, like semen and blood — but only if they are put on before contact or penetration. That makes using a condom critical in reducing your risk of contracting HIV, gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and Trichomonas.
Statistics on the effectiveness of condoms vary a bit with how we use them. As Dr. Cheryl Gibson, the medical director of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, points out: “Contraceptive Technology states the effectiveness of condoms for contraception at 88% in typical use, and 97% in perfect use. For STD prevention...we generally quote a greater than 90% chance of reduction.”
Those are certainly favorable numbers, but keep in mind that nothing is totally safe. Condoms can break. They also only cover a limited portion of the genitals, and viruses like herpes and HPV-causing warts can be present anywhere in the genital region. But even though condoms don’t equal a free-for-all, if used properly, they are the best thing we have for protection. So I encourage women of all ages to keep condoms in their purses, their bathrooms, their cars, their computer bags — wherever!
Even if we like the idea of being pursued by a new partner, I think we can be realistic at this stage of the sexual revolution. There is equality in safe sex. Women can feel empowered by keeping their own stash of condoms handy, and if he refuses to use one at all, stop and think before going any further — remember, this is your health we’re talking about.
Redefining safe sex in midlife
The risk for contracting an STD increases directly with the number of sex partners we have over a lifetime, so we want to choose our partners wisely. They should be worth it — and worthy of us.
Most of us recognize that nothing is totally risk-free other than abstinence, and even abstinence will not protect us from every kind of sexual infection. Barrier methods like condoms to prevent exposure to bodily fluids can be a great step to reduce risks. This is ideal when new partners are on the horizon and you’re not sure yet if he is “Mr. Right” or just “Mr. Right-Now.”
And remember that there’s a risk of contracting an STD at any point in your life for any sexually active woman, regardless of her age, sexual orientation, or if it’s been awhile since she was a part of “the dating scene.” Even married women and women in monogamous relationships should come in for screening.
But if you haven’t been screened, the two pieces of wisdom to remember for practicing safe sex now are “communication” and “condoms.” Beginning or continuing a conversation about safe sex can only deepen and strengthen a relationship, and how you define those terms is up to you. We can learn so much about ourselves, and our partners, by trying.
The best sex is healthy sex
There are so many health benefits to sex, and regardless of your age, great sex is healthy sex, both emotionally and physically. Thinking about safe sex doesn’t make you selfish, nor does it lessen the excitement of your sex life in general. Far from it!
Taking care of ourselves means that we’re taking care of those closest to us — focusing on your own body’s health gives you so much more to offer your partner. Practicing sex safely only means more pleasure, spontaneity and enjoyment for the both of you.
Our Personal Program is a great place to start
The Personal Program promotes natural hormonal balance with nutritional supplements, our exclusive endocrine support formula, dietary and lifestyle guidance, and optional phone consultations with our Nurse–Educators. It is a convenient, at-home version of what we recommend to all our patients at the clinic.
* To learn more about the Program, go to How the Personal Program works.
* To select the Program that’s right for your symptoms, go to Choose the plan that works for you.
* To assess your symptoms, take our on-line Hormonal Health Profile.
* If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us toll-free at 1-800-798-7902. We’re here to listen and help.
Nymphomania: Female Sex Habits of the 21st Century
Throughout history, women have been perceived as objects of desire but, in contrast, prohibited from expressing their own sexual desires. Into the 21st century, however, the thoughts with regard to a woman's sexual health have become increasingly liberal, leaving many women, who once were concerned about their own compulsive sexual habits, to find a place with acceptance is what is considered a positive side of nymphomania; excessive sexual drive and sexual activity. Understanding the symptoms of female nymphomania and when nymphomania is a destructive complication, will ensure women, with advanced sexual desires and libido, are better equipped to gauge healthy sexual encounters from unhealthy sexual encounters.
Nymphomania, or excessive sexual desire, was long considered a physiological and psychological complication in both men and women. For women, secretly suffering from nymphomania, the excessive sexual desires often led to actions which were scrutinized by society as being promiscuous. In today's society, however, a woman's healthy sex drive is considered an indication of natural female libido and is an indication of a woman who is accepting of her appearance, her emotions and, oftentimes, may indicate the absence of psychological complications. In fact, many healthcare professionals, from medical to psychological, believe the woman suffering from nymphomania, may actually be a woman who is more socially, spiritually and emotionally connected with the world in which she lives. In contrast to historical viewpoints, it is women who do not engage in regular sexual activity, today, who may possess complications in this same area. So, when does an excessive sexual desire lead to a complication?
For women, sexual experiences entail a variety of methods. From flirting, foreplay, oral sex to full intercourse, being classified as a happy nymphomaniac can span a full range of activities. This is not to say that an excessive sexual habit is, in all cases, a healthy female behavior. In women with excessive libido, experiencing nymphomania symptoms there can be complicating factors. Indicators such as lack of sleep, missed days of work, failing to eat, avoiding friends and family; these are all indications of a potential sexual addiction which can lead to health complications. For women experiencing the new social acceptance of their love of sex, there is a need to monitor the fine line between satisfying sexual health and complicating daily living activities in the name of it.
In addition to remaining cognitively aware of the sexual balance, women who enjoy an excessive libido should be reminded to always practice safe sexual experiences. Choosing healthy partners, engaging in the use of condoms, and using proper methods to ensure prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, are crucially important to maintaining a healthy physical and psychological balance and working to ensure the ongoing social acceptance of the happy nymphomania identification of women today.
Nymphomania, or excessive sexual desire, was long considered a physiological and psychological complication in both men and women. For women, secretly suffering from nymphomania, the excessive sexual desires often led to actions which were scrutinized by society as being promiscuous. In today's society, however, a woman's healthy sex drive is considered an indication of natural female libido and is an indication of a woman who is accepting of her appearance, her emotions and, oftentimes, may indicate the absence of psychological complications. In fact, many healthcare professionals, from medical to psychological, believe the woman suffering from nymphomania, may actually be a woman who is more socially, spiritually and emotionally connected with the world in which she lives. In contrast to historical viewpoints, it is women who do not engage in regular sexual activity, today, who may possess complications in this same area. So, when does an excessive sexual desire lead to a complication?
For women, sexual experiences entail a variety of methods. From flirting, foreplay, oral sex to full intercourse, being classified as a happy nymphomaniac can span a full range of activities. This is not to say that an excessive sexual habit is, in all cases, a healthy female behavior. In women with excessive libido, experiencing nymphomania symptoms there can be complicating factors. Indicators such as lack of sleep, missed days of work, failing to eat, avoiding friends and family; these are all indications of a potential sexual addiction which can lead to health complications. For women experiencing the new social acceptance of their love of sex, there is a need to monitor the fine line between satisfying sexual health and complicating daily living activities in the name of it.
In addition to remaining cognitively aware of the sexual balance, women who enjoy an excessive libido should be reminded to always practice safe sexual experiences. Choosing healthy partners, engaging in the use of condoms, and using proper methods to ensure prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, are crucially important to maintaining a healthy physical and psychological balance and working to ensure the ongoing social acceptance of the happy nymphomania identification of women today.
The health benefits of sex
While growing up many of us were told that sex was something we should stay away from — or at least not talk about! Sensuality is an innate part of our being, but girls are often taught to tamp it down. Ladies, we are told, guard their reputations carefully; by the time we are mature enough to handle a sexual relationship, our bodies may have incorporated the “good girl” image. That’s unfortunate, because what we weren’t told is that sexual pleasure comes with many emotional and physical health benefits.
Luckily, it’s never too late to reap the health benefits of sex. And for those of us entering menopause, we are finally at an age to enjoy sex without the fear of getting pregnant! Whether you’re a young woman or a granny, it’s time to stop thinking of sex as just another “guilty pleasure” and celebrate in the knowledge that it’s good for your health. Here’s why.
Sex can improve your cardiovascular health. Hopefully you’ve noticed that whenever you feel sexually aroused, your heart and breathing rates increase! Our bodies do this in order to channel more blood to the genitals in preparation for the act of sex. But that’s not all there is to it. One “dusky glance” is all it takes to up the level of adrenaline in your bloodstream — and as things proceed from there a whole cascade of hormones gets released during the arousal and climax process, including adrenaline, noradrenaline, prolactin, DHEA, and testosterone, most all of which have cardioprotective effects. A side benefit to all this “awakening” of the physical body is that it builds the strength of the heart and circulatory system.
And once orgasm is achieved, both men and women release a hormone called oxytocin. That surge of oxytocin has many “anticlimactic” actions, just one of which is lowering blood pressure. And as we know, healthy blood pressure makes it less likely you’ll suffer from a heart attack or stroke. In fact, a study done on over 900 men between the ages of 45 and 59, suggests that having sex two times or more per week may aid in preventing cardiac events, such as stroke and heart attack. Though this study didn’t include women, it certainly shows promise for all of us, given that much of the chemistry involved applies to both genders.
Sex can improve your sleep. Both women and men have noticed the urge to relax and close their eyes after an orgasm. We feel so relaxed in this state that we can easily doze off — even if we otherwise suffer from insomnia. This may also have something to do with oxytocin and the release of endorphins at orgasm, both of which can act like natural sedatives.
Sex provides the benefits of exercise. Just as our bodies respond to a workout at the gym or a brisk walk, sex causes our muscles to contract, our heart rates to increase, and our bodies to release calories and fat from storage to create more energy. This means that engaging in sex gives us all the health paybacks of exercise.
Sex is helpful in easing pain. Have you ever noticed that while you are intimate with a partner, it’s much easier to forget about the aches and pains in your body? Women in two small studies have noticed that their tolerance for pain increases while they are sexually stimulated. This may be because stimulation and orgasm lead to the release of corticosteroids and endorphins that increase our pain thresholds, providing short-term relief for women with menstrual cramps, migraines, back pain or arthritis.
Sex can improve mood and decrease depression. The same endorphins that ease our pain can make us feel euphoric after having sex or masturbating. And this doesn’t change as we get older. In fact, a small study of 30 elderly women and men showed a correlation between masturbation and decreased risk of depression.
Sex can relieve stress. Along with all the other benefits oxytocin provides, you can add stress relief to the list as well. We’ve heard some women describe reaching orgasm as the ultimate release. It is the moment when they can let everything go. Oxytocin is known to be present when we are in stressful situations and those with higher levels of oxytocin are generally calmer and more relaxed than others. Another interesting finding from a study done at UCLA shows that the estrogen present in women enhances the calming effects of oxytocin, while testosterone may counteract it. This may explain why many of us feel the urge to cuddle and bond after sex.
Sex can enhance your sense of spirituality. Many ancient traditions view sexuality as something sacred and spiritual, as opposed to “sinful.” Sexual energy, they say, is unlike any other, and when we merge with this power during orgasm, some believe that we are connecting to the deepest parts of ourselves, our non-physical aspects. Not only do we gain a deeper sense of ourselves, but we can experience an energy that feeds other areas of our lives. Many who think of sex as a spiritual practice tell us they have a stronger sense of self and of their relationships.
At Women to Women, we understand that for many women expressing themselves sexually is an essential piece to their core selves. We encourage that expression for the sake of emotional well-being and for the sake of good physical health. When thinking about ways to enhance your whole-health picture, be sure to consider the positive aspects of engaging in sex. As a woman, fulfilling your sexual needs need not require a partner (see our article and survey on the female masturbation). Instead of placing sex in the guilty pleasures category, know that it is one more way to be healthier — and happier!
Female Sex Drive
Historically, female sex drive was estimated to be much lower than male sex drive. In our modern world, we realize this is no longer true. Men and women have about the same libido levels.
In a normal and healthy woman, the female sex drive varies according to the monthly cycle, hormone balance, stress levels and other factors. Large numbers of women complain of a complete lack of female sex drive. Lack of sex drive is not always related to lack of orgasms.
This article discusses the role of female sex drive in sexual relationships and some treatments for reduced female sex drive.
How common is reduced or nonexistent female sex drive?
Unfortunately, the complaint of low female sex drive is very common. Large numbers of women complain to their doctors of reduced sex drive every day. Reduced female sex drive should not be confused with difficulty in orgasm. Women with low libido are still frequently able to orgasm normally – they just don't want to.
Many women get over their reduced sex drive by themselves, but others require assistance.
What causes reduced female sex drive?
There are physical and psychological causes of reduced female sex drive.
Physical causes can include:
* Stress (probably the #1 cause)
* Alcholism or drug abuse
* Anemia
* Diabetes or other generalized disorders
* Prescription drugs (especially SSRIs and tranquilizers)
Psychological causes of reduced female sex drive can include:
* Depression
* Stress and its mental effects
* Anxiety
* Discomfort with partner or relationship
* Female sexual dysfunction
How can reduced female sex drive be treated?
The first step is to engage in an open and frank discussion with your partner. This can help clear up any relationship-based anxieties or issues that can negatively impact female sex drive.
Physical causes can involve a visit to your doctor. Reduced female sex drive can be a side effect of a larger health issue. Doctors can also potentially identify reduced sex drive as the side effect or symptom of a prescription drug or health concern.
Some products exist that can help restore the diminished female sex drive. We recommend the FemElle system, which contains an herbal sex drive enhancer and a cream containing L-arginine (used by sexual therapists to treat female sexual dysfunction).
For psychological causes of reduced female sex drive, individual or couple counseling may be necessary. A visit to the doctor may be in order for a possible diagnosis of female sexual dysfunction or female sexual arousal dysfunction.
Understanding connections
At Women to Women, we believe healthy self-care is not limited to diet and exercise; it includes sexuality and “self-cultivation.” Masturbation is a way to learn about the connections between our minds and our bodies, and our relationships between ourselves and our partners. If exploring these connections interests you, we suggest planning some romantic time for yourself, whether it be lighting a candle, taking a bath or even reading an erotic book!
Dr. Dixie Mills once said, “When it comes to your health, your body is the expert, and you are the ultimate authority.” So if you are not comfortable with masturbation, that is okay. The choice is completely up to you. The important thing is to know as much as you can about the many health benefits of masturbation, and understand that despite prevailing myths and taboos, for many women masturbation is a positive and healthy experience.
Dr. Dixie Mills once said, “When it comes to your health, your body is the expert, and you are the ultimate authority.” So if you are not comfortable with masturbation, that is okay. The choice is completely up to you. The important thing is to know as much as you can about the many health benefits of masturbation, and understand that despite prevailing myths and taboos, for many women masturbation is a positive and healthy experience.
Differing desires
Many women have told me they feel as though they’ve somehow failed as a sexual partner if they don’t want to just “jump into intercourse” every night. Often men (thinking that women’s sexual needs and desires match their own) report feeling as though their wives or partners aren’t interested in them if they don’t immediately want to have sex. Understanding the fundamental, hormonal difference between the sexes, and communicating your desires, can lead to a wonderful sex life.
Many of the differences between male and female desire and arousal can be traced to the brain, the most powerful sex organ we have. For men, the hormones testosterone and arginine vasopressin (AVP) encourage sexual desire before sex to a higher degree than they do in women, who have fewer AVP receptors in the brain. It takes time for women’s hormone levels to rise before they become aroused. But after orgasm, our hormones function differently too.
As many women know, men often fall asleep after sex. There are hormonal reasons why this happens. Men release hormones when they ejaculate, including norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin — the release of prolactin specifically slows their “recovery time.” Conversely, women’s arousal time is slower but recovery is quick, thus making multiple orgasms possible for some women.
Sharing these differences with our male partners (if you have one) can help foster intimacy. Sharing desire is one of the deepest ways we can communicate and ultimately brings us closer to the ones we love.
Many of the differences between male and female desire and arousal can be traced to the brain, the most powerful sex organ we have. For men, the hormones testosterone and arginine vasopressin (AVP) encourage sexual desire before sex to a higher degree than they do in women, who have fewer AVP receptors in the brain. It takes time for women’s hormone levels to rise before they become aroused. But after orgasm, our hormones function differently too.
As many women know, men often fall asleep after sex. There are hormonal reasons why this happens. Men release hormones when they ejaculate, including norepinephrine, serotonin, oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin — the release of prolactin specifically slows their “recovery time.” Conversely, women’s arousal time is slower but recovery is quick, thus making multiple orgasms possible for some women.
Sharing these differences with our male partners (if you have one) can help foster intimacy. Sharing desire is one of the deepest ways we can communicate and ultimately brings us closer to the ones we love.
Psychological and emotional benefits of masturbation
Women most often cite fatigue as the reason for a decrease in, or loss of, libido. I haven’t met a tired woman yet who cares a bit about sex. Appropriately so, as a tired body is focused on taking care of itself. The second most common reason women tell me they have decreased interest in sex is their dissatisfaction with their appearance. Given the often unrealistic yet prevailing standards of American beauty, it is challenging for many women to feel attractive. Masturbation is one way to honor our sexuality conveniently and privately.
Because we are in control of our bodies when we masturbate, we can learn a lot about who we are. We can cultivate positive feelings about our miraculous bodies, giving us confidence from the inside out and the potential to heal any past negative sexual experiences.
These are all good reasons to reconsider our views on masturbation, but there are also several other reasons why masturbation can help us feel more confident and connected:
* Improves our mood. Masturbation helps relieve depressive emotions. As we become aroused, the hormone levels of dopamine and epinephrine soar in our bodies. Both of these hormones are mood-boosters. Many studies show that women who report personal satisfaction with their sex lives live a better quality of life overall.
* Relieves stress. In her book For Yourself, noted sex therapist Lonnie Barbach explains that the stress resulting from avoiding sex can create the kind of body imbalances we mentioned earlier. She writes that masturbation can help relieve emotional stress by taking time for ourselves, amidst the demands of home, family, and work.
* Strengthens our relationship with ourselves. When we know, love, and nurture ourselves on emotional and physical levels, we gain confidence and grow through self-awareness. Being able to recognize, articulate, and experience what brings pleasure is a powerful step toward fulfillment.
* Strengthens sexual relationship with partner. Many couples have different sexual drives and needs. Masturbation is one way to meet personal needs not met by a partner. It can be shared with a partner. Witnessing a partner masturbate can teach us what methods our partners use so we can learn what they enjoy. It can also open the lines of communication between partners who otherwise might be assuming that the “routine” is still working.
Because we are in control of our bodies when we masturbate, we can learn a lot about who we are. We can cultivate positive feelings about our miraculous bodies, giving us confidence from the inside out and the potential to heal any past negative sexual experiences.
These are all good reasons to reconsider our views on masturbation, but there are also several other reasons why masturbation can help us feel more confident and connected:
* Improves our mood. Masturbation helps relieve depressive emotions. As we become aroused, the hormone levels of dopamine and epinephrine soar in our bodies. Both of these hormones are mood-boosters. Many studies show that women who report personal satisfaction with their sex lives live a better quality of life overall.
* Relieves stress. In her book For Yourself, noted sex therapist Lonnie Barbach explains that the stress resulting from avoiding sex can create the kind of body imbalances we mentioned earlier. She writes that masturbation can help relieve emotional stress by taking time for ourselves, amidst the demands of home, family, and work.
* Strengthens our relationship with ourselves. When we know, love, and nurture ourselves on emotional and physical levels, we gain confidence and grow through self-awareness. Being able to recognize, articulate, and experience what brings pleasure is a powerful step toward fulfillment.
* Strengthens sexual relationship with partner. Many couples have different sexual drives and needs. Masturbation is one way to meet personal needs not met by a partner. It can be shared with a partner. Witnessing a partner masturbate can teach us what methods our partners use so we can learn what they enjoy. It can also open the lines of communication between partners who otherwise might be assuming that the “routine” is still working.
Woman Can?
Almost all women can experience:
* enhanced sex drive, desire, and libido
* increased feelings in your sexual organs
* boosted strength and length of your orgasms
* a very healthy sex life
* guaranteed orgasms almost every time
* enjoyable sex!
* enhanced sex drive, desire, and libido
* increased feelings in your sexual organs
* boosted strength and length of your orgasms
* a very healthy sex life
* guaranteed orgasms almost every time
* enjoyable sex!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Is Viagra For Women?
Is Viagra for Women?
Viagra, the famous sex-boosting drug, has grabbed headlines, imaginations and pocketbooks since its debut in April of 1998. Sales topped $1.2 billion in its first 12 months on the market. From April 1998 to August 1999, 13.5 million Viagra prescriptions have been filled, according to IMS Health, which tracks prescription drug consumption worldwide. Now researchers are questioning if Viagra benefits women, too.
More women than men experience sexual dysfunction -- 43 percent of women vs. 31 percent of men, according to a study in the Feb. 10, 1999 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. While the medical establishment is turning its attention to women and sexual dysfunction, just how beneficial the drug is for women remains unclear.
From the beginning, Pfizer, which manufactures Viagra, focused on male consumers after male test subjects taking the little blue pill for angina reported an odd side effect -- improved erections. However, Viagra increases blood flow not only to the penis, but also to the clitoris. So why does Pfizer target only men? "It was quite obvious that (treating men) was the first direction to go," says Maryann Caprino, a spokeswoman for Pfizer. "Female sexual dysfunction is far more difficult to measure and far less understood."
The Jury's Still Out
Despite Pfizer's "men first" approach, some doctors have prescribed it for female patients, although the drug is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration for such use. "Women respond great to Viagra. They actually do better then men," says Dr. H.G. Nurnberg, a professor at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center.
Nurnberg gave sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, to a few women experiencing temporary antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. He later published his results in two journals. Viagra helped the women finish their course of medication while maintaining sexual function. However, a different study at Columbia University found that sildenafil is ineffective in women.
In an attempt to measure physiological responses rather than relying on self-reporting or questionnaires as previous studies had, Dr. Jennifer Berman, a urologist and co-director of Boston University's Women's Sexual Health Clinic, is working on two studies. "We have found that sildenafil significantly improves both subjective and objective parameters of the female sexual response," she says.
In Berman's study, she had women watch erotic movies and use a vibrator to stimulate themselves one hour after ingesting sildenafil. "We measure changes in blood flow, changes in genital sensation and changes in vaginal pH and vaginal elasticity," Berman says. However, "an increase in blood flow is meaningless unless the woman actually perceives enhanced sexual pleasure," she says.
Not a Woman's Drug?
Leonore Tiefer, clinical associate professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, states that idea more starkly. "There's no evidence that problems in blood flow to the clitoris contribute at all to women's (sexual dysfunction)," she says. Indeed, poor sexual knowledge, poor technique, uncooperative partners, poor self-image and inhibitions are well-documented causes of female sexual dysfunction, she says.
"There may be one woman in a thousand for whom (Viagra) is exactly right," says Tiefer. But "why is all the energy, all the attention, not to mention all the money, (focused) on one out of a thousand?"
Who Can Take Viagra?
The ideal candidates for Viagra appear to be women previously without problems who "because of menopause, hysterectomy or other pelvic injury are now not satisfied," says Laura Berman, Ph.D., a sex therapist, sister of Jennifer Berman, co-director of Boston University's Women's Sexual Health Clinic and co-researcher in the Boston University study. Emotional or relational reasons must be ruled out, she says.
Long-term effects of the drug are not known and current research is restricted to women who can't conceive or are using birth control. Deaths have occurred among people who have taken Viagra, and certain health conditions and medications are contraindicated with the drug.
Ladies Second
Regardless of Viagra's effect on women, the question remains: Why has research with women and sexual dysfunction lagged so dramatically behind that of men?
"The field of medicine has been predominantly male," says Laura Berman. "For many decades, when a woman presented sexual complaints, a doctor would ask her if it hurt and if she was able to have sex." Beyond that, he did not pursue the matter. Questions about women's enjoyment, arousal levels and orgasms weren't addressed, she says.
Women with sexual problems don't have to wait until Viagra studies are completed. "There is a whole range of things that can help women," says Laura Berman. "Certainly, pharmacotherapy is not necessarily always the best and only option." In other words, all the answers don't reside in a little blue pill.
Viagra Women-3
The long search for the female equivalent of Viagra has led researchers to . . . Viagra.
In a small study of 98 women published today, the little blue pill helped women whose sexual performance had flagged as a side effect of taking antidepressants, known as SSRIsa very specific finding that could open a new use for the male impotence drug.
The report in the Journal of the American Medical Assn. is one of the few to find some benefit for women despite nearly a decade of searching by its maker, Pfizer Inc.
More than 6 million women in the U.S. suffer from major depression. Antidepressants are the most common treatment for the mood disorder, and while they can be quite beneficial, they often have debilitating sexual side effects.
Doctors said the study, which was funded with a grant from Pfizer, could foster broader experimentation with Viagra for women, although they added that the drug was unlikely to become the blockbuster phenomenon it is among men. Its effectiveness in women is limited compared with men, and Pfizer has said it does not plan to develop the drug for female disorders.
Still, the study is certain to rekindle debate about the nature of sexual problems in women and men. While male difficulties have largely been seen in mechanical terms, female dysfunction has been viewed as more complicated and connected to desire.
But Dr. Irwin Goldstein, director of sexual medicine at Alvarado Hospital in San Diego, who has prescribed Viagra for some of his female patients, said the new research suggests that "however you think about men and women, there are a lot of similarities."
Not long after Viagra was introduced in 1998 to treat erectile dysfunction in men, Pfizer started researching its use in women. The company hoped to add to the success of Viagra, which had worldwide sales of $1.76 billion last year.
Initial studies of Viagra in women were disappointing. The drug blocks an enzyme that inhibits blood flow, which, in the case of men, allows more blood to flow to the penis. In women, the drug increased engorgement of genital tissue but failed to enhance women's enjoyment of sex. Pfizer ended company-initiated trials of the drug for female sexual arousal disorder in 2004.
However, many doctors said the early studies weren't selective enough, because they included women who lacked desire. Such women, like men with desire problems, couldn't expect to be helped by Viagra, they said.
The latest study was confined to women with arousal problems. They all had been diagnosed with major depression and were taking a specific class of antidepressants called selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Their depression was in remission when the study began.
The women, all of whom were premenopausal, were divided into two groups. One group was assigned to take Viagra one to two hours before sexual activity for eight weeks. The other women received the same instructions but were given a placebo.
At the end of the study, 72% of women taking Viagra, and 27% of those taking the placebo, reported improvement. The side effects were those typically associated with Viagra, including headaches and flushing. The women who responded best tended to have higher levels of testosterone, a phenomenon also observed in men taking Viagra.
Goldstein, who consults for Pfizer and other drug companies, said testosterone levels may be the key. A recent study in Italy found that Viagra helped female diabetics with normal testosterone levels.
"What is so cool about this paper is that women with sexual problems have another drug they can use," Goldstein said. "As long as their testosterone values are OK, we can help them."
Julia R. Heiman, director of the Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction at Indiana University and a study author, said the findings were important because the sexual side effects of antidepressants can be so debilitating that women discontinue the medication, putting themselves at risk for greater depression.
"This will change practice," said Dr. Andrew Leuchter, a professor of psychiatry at UCLA who was not involved in the study.
Dr. Glenn D. Braunstein, an endocrinologist and chairman of the department of medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, said Viagra might not work as well in the real world as it did in the study. Patients who experienced headaches or flushing might have figured out that they had received Viagra, and that knowledge might have affected their assessment of their sexual performance, he said.
"This is a provocative study, but I would love to see it confirmed in a larger group of women," he said.
Nonetheless, Braunstein predicted that few women on antidepressants would wait for a second study.
"If I had to predict, use of Viagra will go up," he said. "A woman might not even ask her gynecologist for it -- she might just ask her significant other to give her some."
About my decreased libido (sex drive)?
Following the success achieved with Viagra in the male, some researchers have begun to study this drug for women. Some, but not all, studies have shown encouraging results.
VIAGRA has an established safety profile of over 9 years. Viagra isn't licensed for use in women and its safety in women hasn't been established. Viagra is available 25mg and 50mg and 100mg tablets. Viagra has become the fastest selling pharmaceutical drug in history. Viagra was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1998 as a therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED), a term for impotence that surfaced in the 1990s.
Viagra is an oral medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). It helps the majority of men with ED improve their erections. That means they are able to achieve harder erections.Viagra works by blocking an enzyme that normally inhibits blood flow, causing penile tissue to swell. That enzyme is found in great quantities in the penis and is also found in the pelvic region of women.
In a study from Canada,0202 the efficacy and safety of sildenafil were evaluated in estrogenized and estrogen-deficient women with sexual dysfunction that included female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). Patients were randomized to receive 10-100 mg sildenafil or matching placebo. A total of 577 estrogenized and 204 estrogen-deficient women were randomized to treatment. All were diagnosed with FSAD, but it was the primary presenting symptom in only 46% and 50% of women, respectively. Differences in efficacy between sildenafil and placebo were not significant for any patient or partner end points. The main adverse effects were headache, flushing, nausea, visual disturbances, and dyspepsia, which were generally mild to moderate in nature. It was concluded that any genital physiological effect of sildenafil was not perceived as improving the sexual response in estrogenized or estrogen-deficient women with a broad spectrum of sexual dysfunction that included FSAD.
In the study by Laan and colleagues,0201 the effect of a single oral dose of sildenafil citrate on vaginal vasocongestion and subjective sexual arousal in healthy premenopausal women. Twelve women without sexual dysfunction were randomly assigned to receive either a single oral 50 mg dose of sildenafil or matching placebo in a first session and the alternate medication in a second session. Significant increases in vaginal vasocongestion (engorgement) were found with Viagra treatment compared with placebo. There were no differences between treatments on subjective sexual arousal experience. Analyses by suspected treatment received found that significantly stronger sexual arousal and vaginal wetness were reported for the treatment that was believed to be sildenafil vs. the treatment that was believed to be placebo. The suspected treatment sequence was incorrect for half of the women. Sildenafil was well tolerated, with no evidence of significant adverse events. Sildenafil was found to be effective in enhancing vaginal engorgement during erotic stimulus conditions in healthy women without sexual dysfunction but was not associated with an effect on subjective sexual arousal.
Researchers in Italy0303 set out to determine the changes, if any, on female sexual pathways using sildenafil (primary outcome), and to verify the safety of this drug (second outcome). Sixty-eight healthy volunteer women aged 19-38 years, asymptomatic for sexual disorders, were enrolled. The study consisted of 4 weeks sildenafil, 2 weeks washout, and 4 weeks placebo, by two possible sequences: sildenafil 50 mg, washout, placebo; or placebo, washout, sildenafil 50 mg. Fifty women completed the study at the first follow-up, and 38 women reached the second follow-up. Six women withdrew because of adverse events. Sildenafil improved arousal, orgasm, and enjoyment with respect to placebo. Significant differences were noted during sildenafil usage with respect to the baseline for arousal, orgasm, and sexual enjoyment. The adverse events were transient and mild or moderate. It was concluded that
sildenafil acts on different sexual pathways in healthy women, improving their sexual experience.
In California, a study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate in spontaneously or surgically postmenopausal women with female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). There were significant improvements inincreased genital sensation during intercourse or stimulation and increased satisfaction with intercourse and/or foreplay. For women with FSAD without concomitant hypoactive sexual desire disorder(HSDO) sildenafil was associated with significantly greater improvement in sensation and satisfaction compared with placebo. No significant improvements were shown for women with concomitant HSDD. The conclusion was that Sildenafil was effective and well tolerated in postmenopausal women with FSAD without concomitant HSDD or contributory emotional, relationship or historical abuse issues.
Women, the maker of Viagra has found, are a lot more complicated than men. After eight years of work and tests involving 3,000 women, Pfizer Inc. announced0401 that it was abandoning its effort to prove that the impotence drug Viagra improves sexual function in women. The problem, Pfizer researchers found, is that men and women have a fundamentally different relationship between arousal and desire. For men, arousal almost always leads to desire. So by improving a man's ability to have erections, Viagra measurably affects his sexual function. But arousal and desire are often disconnected in women. Although Viagra can indeed create the outward signs of arousal in many women, that seems to have little effect on a woman's willingness, or desire, to have sex. With women, things depend on a myriad of factors. Still, Viagra can be effective in some women. Women who once had normal sexual function but then suddenly lost all desire - often as a result of taking antidepressants - can be helped by Viagra. Women who have always had low libido levels are unaffected by Viagra. Much of Pfizer's research found that the real factor in determining desire and sexual function in women is hormone levels. Procter and Gamble is testing a patch with testosterone, the male hormone, as a means of improving female sexual function. Some gynecologists are already prescribing testosterone for patients who complain of low libidos. Estrogen treatments and supplements are also commonly used.
Pfizer once had great hopes for its clinical program testing Viagra in women. In one early clinical trial, researchers gave six women Viagra and six others a placebo, sat them in front of erotic videos and used a pelvic probe to measure any change in genital blood flow. The sex organs of women given Viagra were more engorged than those given placebos. The program seemed to be succeeding. But a larger trial that included a questionnaire found that although Viagra was associated with greater pelvic blood flow, the women experiencing this effect did not feel any more aroused. Pfizer researchers spent years trying to find some well-defined group of women for whom increased pelvic blood flow and desire could be linked.
Viagra Works on Women
The buzz over impotence drug Viagra, has prompted many women and researchers to wonder whether it could improve the sex lives of women if they took it as well. And, in the process, it is generating new interest in sex research in general and women's sexual problems in particular.
For decades, the field of sex research has been a scientific backwater, researchers acknowledge. The federal government kept away from sex research and serious investigators considered it career suicide to go into an area that lacked federal financing and evoked snickers from other researchers.
Even Viagra was discovered by accident. Pfizer, its maker, was looking for a drug to relieve the chest pain of heart disease. The compound, sildenafil citrate in pill form, did not work as intended, but it had an unexpected side effect: some men taking Viagra found that it resulted in prolonged or enhanced erections.
When Pfizer scientists decided to investigate its usefulness as an impotence remedy, they had to learn about the biochemistry and neurobiology of erections. They also had to pay for developing a survey to determine whether erections, sexual performance and sexual desire improved and, if so, by how much.
Now many doctors want to know whether Viagra works on women, since the clitoris is the female version of the penis and thus becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal. But how, they ask, should they measure arousal in women, especially since relatively little is known about sexual function and dysfunction among women?
Until researchers solve that problem, Pfizer's plans to test the effects of Viagra on women cannot begin. In the meantime, researchers say, women have been calling them and asking about the pill.
But even asking about whether Viagra works for women has meant starting the sort of sex research that has been stymied, experts said. Viagra "has opened the door to the study of sexual function," said Dr. Raymond Rosen, a sex researcher and professor of psychiatry at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, N.J.
While some welcome the change, others ask how money and attention from drug companies will alter a field that has focused as much on feelings and relationships as it has on physiology and mechanics.
With drug company money, "the studies have been so mechanical -- is it hard? how wide is it? how big is it? how many seconds does it last?" said Dr. Leonore Tiefer, a sex researcher and clinical professor of psychiatry at New York Medical Center.
But "I think of an erection as a means to an end," Tiefer said, "something suitable to a couple rather than something you measure in the guy in the lab."
Some researchers wonder whether it will be good or bad for relationships if a new generation of drugs enhances sexual functioning for people who have been getting along fine with less-than-peak performance.
"Think of this like winning the sexual lottery," said Dr. Pepper Schwartz, a sociology professor at the University of Washington. "You might think in a lottery that if a little money is good, a lot must be great. But that is not always true."
Yet some say that the anticipated renaissance for sex research is long overdue, particularly for women.
"We can argue that as a society sexual functioning shouldn't have the image it has," said Rosen. But sexual dysfunction "for the people involved, it can be devastating," he said.
If anything, he added, sexual problems are more common in women than in men and, as in men, they are more common as people get older. For women, a major issue is lack of desire. Yet Rosen said much remained unknown:
"What is the relationship between lack of desire and measures of sexual performance -- lubrication and arousal? Is it that women lose desire and then develop arousal difficulties or is it the other way around?"
Women may complain of a lack of desire because it is more acceptable for them to say that than to say they have difficulty becoming aroused, Dr. Rosen said.
A 55-year-old nurse at the University of Maryland said she could not decide whether her problem was lack of desire or lack of an ability to become aroused.
"When you're younger, you could look at someone and all those bells and whistles would go off," the nurse said, speaking on the condition of anonymity. But "when you are with your partner for a long time," she added, "a certain boredom sets in." So maybe Viagra "could be the answer to that," she said.
The nurse said she, and virtually every woman she knew, would like to try Viagra.
"I think everyone wonders if it could be better," she said.
At least one researcher, Dr. Irwin Goldstein, a professor of urology at the Boston University School of Medicine, said his research indicated that the problem for middle-aged women was the same as it was for middle-aged men: a paucity of blood flowing to the sex organs. And if Goldstein is correct, it makes at least theoretical sense that Viagra be helpful for women.
It was Goldstein whose survey of Massachusetts men indicated that about half of all men aged 40 to 70 had difficulties obtaining or maintaining erections. He also discovered that the problem was most common among men with conditions that can lead to vascular problems that can lead to diminished flow in blood vessels, like diabetes. Now Goldstein and his colleagues are extending their research to women.
To get an idea of how common sexual problems are in women, Goldstein surveyed 300 women whose partners had consulted him about impotency.
Defining sexual dysfunction as discomfort during sexual intercourse, dryness, increased time for arousal, diminished ability to reach orgasm, or diminished clitoral sensation, Goldstein found that 58 percent of the women were affected. And, as like men, the women were more likely to have sexual difficulties if they were older and if they had medical conditions relating to vascular problems.
Goldstein and Dr. Jennifer Berman, a urologist at the University of Maryland in Baltimore, also examined the blood vessels that supplied the clitorises of cadavers and those of women undergoing X-ray examinations of the arteries for vascular disease. They found that just as disease and aging cause blood vessels to narrow in other parts of the body, the sexual organs were similarly affected, Goldstein said.
"The whole field changes now," he said.
Sexual dysfunction, Goldstein said, is no longer mostly a psychosomatic complaint, it is not something to be resolved only through years of therapy, and it is not a problem for a urologist alone.
Instead, he said, sexual dysfunction "is in essence a vascular disease." It is, he said, "a heart attack of the vagina, a heart attack of the clitoris, a heart attack of the penis."
Tale of Two Pills
Erections and sexual dysfunction are in the headlines again, and this time, thanks to the miracles of modern medicine, we're not even talking about Bill Clinton.
Ever since the FDA's April approval of Viagra, the little blue pill giving insurance companies a headache, the media have been infatuated with male impotence and its potential cure. U.S. pharmacists dispensed more than 215,000 Viagra prescriptions within the first four weeks of availability, sending manufacturer Pfizer Inc.'s stocks soaring and journalists buzzing. Everyone from porn magazine editors to former presidential hopefuls have expounded upon the supposed sociocultural impact of a wonderdrug clinically proven to, shall we say, make man's best friend stand up and salute the flag.
1996 republican presidential candidate Bob Dole, 74, praised the erection inducer on "Larry King Live." A participant in Viagra's clinical trials, the former Senate Majority Leader pronounced it a "great" and "effective" drug. When pressed by reporters for her appraisal, Elizabeth Dole tittered in approval: "Let me just say - he was in the protocol, and it is a great drug." (It's safe to assume the American public could have lived without that image.)
To shed light on our nation's psycho-sexual mindset, TIME.com offered a page of reflections from such cultural geniuses as Penthouse publisher Bob Guccione, who believes that male erectile dysfunction is more a symptom of women's demands for justice than men's increasing age or declining health. To Guccione, Viagra promises to cure not only impotence but women's uppity behavior, as well. "Feminism has emasculated the American male, and that emasculation has led to physical problems. This pill will take the pressure off men. It will... undercut the feminist agenda," Guccione said, most likely with his fingers crossed.
Antifeminist spinmistress Camille Paglia affirmed Viagra as the greatest strengthener of modern manhood since the shotgun - "It's like the steel that they would get if they were at war," she told TIME. Entrenched beneath her misguided bluster, Paglia may finally be onto something: Viagra does speak to a war being waged over sexual health. But the real struggle - that over health care funding - is being fought on an economic battlefield and women, not men, are in need of ammunition.
A Tale of Two Pills
From Business Week to Newsweek, reporters, doctors, health insurance monitors and stock market analysts have engaged in active and often indignant debate over one key question: who should be financially responsible for erections? The hype over Viagra funding proves how poorly the health insurance industry responds to women's medical needs as opposed to those of men, and how little notice the press and the public give to this disparity.
Viagra’s benefits are physiological (potency pill poppers get to experience sexual gratification and release) and psychological (a Viagra high replaces patients’ performance anxieties with the pumped-up gusto of "manly men"). Its effects are felt primarily by the individual drug user (and, perhaps, his partner). By contrast, contraceptive care provides individual women with a great modicum of reproductive control, and allows a greater chance at economic independence (young and low-income heterosexual women denied access to contraception are far more likely to be forced into public assistance and/or poverty than those to whom this basic health care requirement is attainable).
The dangers of Viagra are becoming increasingly glaring: as of June 9, the FDA received 16 reports of death among men who took the drug, and though no direct evidence links the fatalities with the pill, at least seven of these (mostly elderly) men died during or after intercourse. Oral contraceptives, on the other hand, are among the safest and most effective of any existing prescriptive medications.
And, as always, there’s the money. Viagra costs roughly $10 per single dose. Oral contraceptives cost women approximately $30 for a full month. Every public dollar spent on contraceptive services prevents $4 in public expenditures on unwanted or unplanned pregnancies. Every dose of Viagra subsidized by private or governmental insurers saves men from sexual frustration and… drumroll, please… the embarrassment of hearing their wives and girlfriends say, "That’s OK, honey, it happens to every guy, once in a while." In short, Viagra is a costly, potentially risky drug which allows impotent men more sexual pleasure in their personal lives, while oral contraception offers a generally safe, cost-effective, socially beneficial solution to America’s unintended pregnancy rate (which, at 60%, doubles that of other developed nations).
Yet despite these contrasts, nearly half of approximately 300,000 men who seek renewed sexual vigor via Viagra each week are being fully or partially reimbursed by their health insurers. Additionally, insurers are reimbursing up to 73 percent of impotence patients using less sexy treatments such as Caverject, which requires an injection in the urethra. Medicaid programs in at least 10 states now "guarantee satisfying sex for the impotent poor." States such as Arkansas, Florida and Maryland subsidize 4 to 6 medicinal erections per month, while Utah covers 10 (to help men "approach normality," said Duane Park, Utah’s Medicaid drug utilization reviewer). Viagra seekers in Montana must merely cover a $2 copayment typically required for prescription medications.
Compare the erection-in-a-bottle with the basic contraceptive needs of all heterosexually active women who do not wish to become pregnant. While many health insurers are guaranteeing free or low-cost romps to men, they are by and large denying most women the contraceptive coverage that is a fundamental health care necessity for 20 - 30 years of their adult lives (the alternative being, on average, a potential 8 - 15 pregnancies in a woman’s lifetime). According to the Alan Guttmacher Institute, 33 million American women are in need of contraceptive services and supplies, yet most women using birth control pay for it themselves. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that two-thirds of U.S. women of childbearing age rely on private, employer-related plans for their health coverage. While 90% of these health plans cover prescription drugs and devices, a large majority exclude prescription contraceptives from coverage. Only 33 percent of large group health plans cover the birth control pill. Other contraceptive methods are even less financially accessible. Is it any wonder that women of childbearing age pay 68% more in out-of-pocket medical expenses than their male counterparts?
Whose Well-Being Are We Talking About?
By early May, Alabama's Medicaid program had already paid for $23,000 worth of Viagra prescriptions, and was beginning to fear the drug would overburden the program. Republican State Representative and Medicaid Oversight Committee leader Ron Johnson opposed his state’s move to revoke blanket coverage, responding to the AP: "The sex drive being what it is in some people, it may very well have a lot to do with the mental well-being of a person."
Could it be? Among a political party with the combined sexual verve of a chastity belt, might there finally be a Republican who understands that the libido is not an evil force but rather a normal, healthy part of human existence?
Don’t count on it. Johnson’s comment may be pronoun-free, but his message is gender-specific. Clearly, men are the people taking Viagra, and it’s men’s mental well-being about which Johnson worried. If he was truly concerned with the influence of sexuality on people’s well-being, Viagra-proponent Johnson would go on the books demanding funding for contraception in order to assure women’s rights to fulfilling sex lives.
Sadly, thats not happening with Johnson or with health insurers, because of a simple, age-old double standard. Men supposedly need sex due to biological urges; impotence is considered a medical disease, hence its cure should be funded. Women, thought to have lower sex drives, are assumed to bear the reproductive risk (we play, we pay). Since pregnancy is not a "disease" and reproductive control is considered "optional" or "recreational," health insurers do not consider themselves bound to cover contraceptives.
"This insurance exclusion makes no sense," said Dr. Luella Klein, Director of Women?s Health Services in a May ACOG press release. "Contraception provides great savings to the health care system, yet it is the individual woman who is shouldering the burden of this cost savings to insurers," she said. It’s certainly not a bottom-line issue: according to a report in the American Journal of Public Health, a fifteen percent increase in the number of oral contraceptive users in a health plan would provide enough savings in pregnancy costs alone to provide oral contraceptive coverage for all users in the plan.
In attempt to rectify what they consider a discriminatory imbalance, the ACOG has endorsed a bill now pending in Congress (S 766/HR 2174) which would require any insurers who cover prescription drug benefits and outpatient services to cover all FDA-approved contraceptive drugs and devices.
Viagra has begun to rally public attention behind the issue of sexual health care. If this attention can be channeled into support for the ACOG bill, the irony will be far more exciting than the effects of any pill.
Women and Viagra?
Why Study the Relationship Between Women and Viagra?
At first glance, it makes little sense to examine the relationship between women and Viagra. After all, this drug was developed to treat impotence in men and nearly all prescriptions written for Viagra are for this purpose. However, Viagra has done much more than merely treat male sexual dysfunction--it has excited the media and captivated the attention of the American public as a whole. Not since Prozac has America become so fervent over a drug and the potential it has to change the way we live. This excitement extends far beyond the male segment of our society: Viagra has the potential to drastically change the sex lives of women as well.
For too long, sexual disorders in women have been ignored by the American medical establishment. Ironically, Viagra, a drug intended for use in men, has had the effect of bringing female sexual dysfunction to the forefront of discussion in the medical community. As doctors begin to explore the potential use of Viagra in women, investigators are re-examining what constitutes female sexual dysfunction. In so doing, myriad issues relating to gender bias in the way we perceive sex have begun to surface. Since there is virtually no academic literature which discusses the effects Viagra has and will have on women, this report is meant to bring together many of the ideas which have begun to surface in popular media circles. When examined as a collective, perceptions of this drug and its use in women speak volumes about larger social issues in America.
What Is Viagra and What Does It Do?
Viagra is the common name for the molecule sildenafil citrate, a powerful phosphodiesterase inhibitor. This molecule works by preventing a specific phosphodiesterase (PDE5) from breaking down cyclic GMP in a complex cascade of chemical reactions.1 The net effect of Viagra is to cause certain blood vessels to dilate and surrounding muscle to relax, which leads to increased blood flow in specific tissues (i.e. penile tissue). Although the effects of Viagra are mostly localized to the genitals, other parts of the body can be affected, leading to side effects such as blue-tinted vision and nausea.
Interestingly, sildenafil citrate was first developed as a potential treatment for patients suffering from cardiac ailments. However, while Pfizer, the company which developed the drug, was conducting clinical trials, many male patients noticed that their ability to achieve erection greatly increased.2 Subsequently, the course of Viagra research shifted drastically, and today Viagra has become one of the principal options available to physicians in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men.
It is well documented that Viagra works well in most men unable to achieve erection, but no one really knows what effects, if any, Viagra might have in women. It is theorized that because the vasculature and tissues of the clitoris are similar to those of the penis, sildenafil citrate could increase blood flow to the female genitals in the same way it does in males.3 It is important to note that this is merely a hypothesis some investigators hold, to this point in time, no definitive research has been done to show that this is actually the case.
Regardless of whether or not Viagra increases blood flow to the clitoris, the idea that it could be used in this manner opens a pandora's box of social issues regarding sex. First and foremost is the question of whether sex is primarily for pleasure or reproduction. A woman does not need to have an orgasm for fertilization to occur (although it is possible that the involuntary contractions of the uterus during orgasm may assist the movement of sperm into the oviduct).4 Still, American culture perceives sex first as a pleasurable experience and then as a means of procreation. People often want to have sex but don't want to have a child--as evidenced by the widespread use of contraception. Under this paradigm of sexual enjoyment, there is no reason why women should not have the same opportunity to experience the pleasures associated with sex as men.
Women and The New Pill
There are several reasons why more and more researchers are contemplating the use of Viagra in women. First of all, there is societal pressure from both men and women who hope that Viagra might be just the thing to improve their sex lives. Physicians are members of the population as well--they see the magazine articles, television news reports, and newspaper columns which are all part of America's Viagra craze. Thus, our societal obsession with Viagra has undoubtedly affected the thinking of these researchers and caused them to wonder what might happen if women could were to be treated with this drug.
Another principal reason why investigators are curious about the use of Viagra in women stems from a fundamental shift in perceptions of female sexual dysfunction. It used to be that if a woman could not achieve orgasm, her dysfunction was blamed on psychological problems. Recently, however, there has been movement away from psychology towards physiology in the perception of female sexual dysfunction.5 Accompanying this shift is a change in treatment strategy--from psychological therapy to drug treatment. However, there are no drugs specifically designed to treat sexual dysfunction in women, and thus, many researchers see Viagra as the best option for treatment.
There are also certain economic factors which have spurred interest in the use of Viagra in women. Currently, Viagra is the hottest selling prescription drug on the market--and the vast majority of these prescriptions are written for men. Thus, if the market for Viagra were to expand to encompass women, then Pfizer (and other pharmaceutical companies which are working on drugs similar to Viagra) would stand to nearly double their profits.6
Testing Viagra in Women
Although Viagra has been tested thoroughly in men, no one really knows what this drug will do in women. Thus, most physicians agree that similar studies to those previously conducted in men must be performed on women to determine the efficacy and safety of the drug. One of the main problems with such a study is determining how the effects of Viagra in women can be gauged. In men, the ability to achieve erection was a relatively straightforward method of determining Viagra's efficacy, however, such a measure is not so readily available in women. Researchers argue that there may be several effects of this drug in women which must somehow be measured (amount of lubrication, blood flow, overall sexual sensation, etc.) which complicates these studies.
In Europe, Pfizer is currently conducting clinical trials of Viagra in women.7 The methods Pfizer has adopted to measure the effects of this drug in women are similar to those the company used in men--patients are given detailed questionnaires concerning several aspects of sexual arousal/performance, and the results of these surveys used to determine efficacy. The results of this study, however, are not yet available, causing some U.S. doctors to take matters into their own hands.
Although Viagra only has the approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in men, doctors are legally allowed to write prescriptions for Viagra for any person, regardless of sex. Thus, many physicians, not willing to wait for the results of clinical studies, have begun performing "proof-of-concept" studies on female patients. These studies, although often well-intended, have several problems associated with them. First, the sample size of these trials are often too small to accurately determine whether there are any significant effects caused by Viagra in women. Furthermore, these studies use different methods (doses of Viagra, method of measuring response, etc.) from one another making it impossible to examine the results of these studies as a whole. Also, because these studies tend to be conducted out of a physician's desire to help his or her patient, they tend to be performed without proper control groups--a necessary treatment in any scientific study.
The dangers associated with administering a drug that might have unknown deleterious side-effects to patients have led many in the medical community to disapprove of these "proof-of-concept" studies. Some argue that the women who participate in these studies are little more than human guinea pigs--a means to satisfy the curiosity of rogue investigators. However, these women participate in these studies, no matter how unethical they may be, because they want to--they have the right to wait for the results of more accepted clinical trials.
Some women have gone a step further and begun testing Viagra in themselves without the supervision of a physician. The results of such anecdotal studies can be found on the pages of popular magazines such as Cosmopolitan and Harper's Bazaar, as well throughout the world-wide-web. Many women who take Viagra illegally may be doing so for a number of reasons. Journalists may be cashing in on the wide-spread cultural interest in Viagra to increase their readership; others may be simply be interested in trying Viagra as a recreational drug--much like marijuana or cocaine. Regardless of motive, these anecdotal studies are dangerous. The specific effects of Viagra in women are unknown, and there is the definite possibility that Viagra can be dangerous in women who have certain heart conditions, just as in men.
Technological Addiction in America
As we move closer to the widespread use of Viagra in women, the ways we perceive sex and technology as a society become increasingly lucid. It is disturbing to many that individuals look to Viagra as some type of sexual salvation--Viagra is not a drug which has any direct effect on sexual desires, it merely treats the physiological aspects of sexual dysfunction. Our societal obsession with Viagra leads many to ask, "are we looking for science to take the place of good, old-fashioned romance?"
Although the answer to such a question is not a simple yes or no, the proliferation of Viagra in American culture is clearly related to the "Tech-Fix"--the idea that any problem can somehow be solved through technology. In the case of Viagra, there are many potential benefits for women: not only might Viagra help cure the sexual dysfunction of an estimated 30-40% of American women, but merely the idea of treating such dysfunction with drugs rather than psychoanalysis has helped bring the sexual lives of women to the forefront of discussion. However, we tread on thin ice with Viagra--the potential exists for this drug to be abused when people believe that it will somehow heighten their sexual experience.
At first glance, it makes little sense to examine the relationship between women and Viagra. After all, this drug was developed to treat impotence in men and nearly all prescriptions written for Viagra are for this purpose. However, Viagra has done much more than merely treat male sexual dysfunction--it has excited the media and captivated the attention of the American public as a whole. Not since Prozac has America become so fervent over a drug and the potential it has to change the way we live. This excitement extends far beyond the male segment of our society: Viagra has the potential to drastically change the sex lives of women as well.
For too long, sexual disorders in women have been ignored by the American medical establishment. Ironically, Viagra, a drug intended for use in men, has had the effect of bringing female sexual dysfunction to the forefront of discussion in the medical community. As doctors begin to explore the potential use of Viagra in women, investigators are re-examining what constitutes female sexual dysfunction. In so doing, myriad issues relating to gender bias in the way we perceive sex have begun to surface. Since there is virtually no academic literature which discusses the effects Viagra has and will have on women, this report is meant to bring together many of the ideas which have begun to surface in popular media circles. When examined as a collective, perceptions of this drug and its use in women speak volumes about larger social issues in America.
What Is Viagra and What Does It Do?
Viagra is the common name for the molecule sildenafil citrate, a powerful phosphodiesterase inhibitor. This molecule works by preventing a specific phosphodiesterase (PDE5) from breaking down cyclic GMP in a complex cascade of chemical reactions.1 The net effect of Viagra is to cause certain blood vessels to dilate and surrounding muscle to relax, which leads to increased blood flow in specific tissues (i.e. penile tissue). Although the effects of Viagra are mostly localized to the genitals, other parts of the body can be affected, leading to side effects such as blue-tinted vision and nausea.
Interestingly, sildenafil citrate was first developed as a potential treatment for patients suffering from cardiac ailments. However, while Pfizer, the company which developed the drug, was conducting clinical trials, many male patients noticed that their ability to achieve erection greatly increased.2 Subsequently, the course of Viagra research shifted drastically, and today Viagra has become one of the principal options available to physicians in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men.
It is well documented that Viagra works well in most men unable to achieve erection, but no one really knows what effects, if any, Viagra might have in women. It is theorized that because the vasculature and tissues of the clitoris are similar to those of the penis, sildenafil citrate could increase blood flow to the female genitals in the same way it does in males.3 It is important to note that this is merely a hypothesis some investigators hold, to this point in time, no definitive research has been done to show that this is actually the case.
Regardless of whether or not Viagra increases blood flow to the clitoris, the idea that it could be used in this manner opens a pandora's box of social issues regarding sex. First and foremost is the question of whether sex is primarily for pleasure or reproduction. A woman does not need to have an orgasm for fertilization to occur (although it is possible that the involuntary contractions of the uterus during orgasm may assist the movement of sperm into the oviduct).4 Still, American culture perceives sex first as a pleasurable experience and then as a means of procreation. People often want to have sex but don't want to have a child--as evidenced by the widespread use of contraception. Under this paradigm of sexual enjoyment, there is no reason why women should not have the same opportunity to experience the pleasures associated with sex as men.
Women and The New Pill
There are several reasons why more and more researchers are contemplating the use of Viagra in women. First of all, there is societal pressure from both men and women who hope that Viagra might be just the thing to improve their sex lives. Physicians are members of the population as well--they see the magazine articles, television news reports, and newspaper columns which are all part of America's Viagra craze. Thus, our societal obsession with Viagra has undoubtedly affected the thinking of these researchers and caused them to wonder what might happen if women could were to be treated with this drug.
Another principal reason why investigators are curious about the use of Viagra in women stems from a fundamental shift in perceptions of female sexual dysfunction. It used to be that if a woman could not achieve orgasm, her dysfunction was blamed on psychological problems. Recently, however, there has been movement away from psychology towards physiology in the perception of female sexual dysfunction.5 Accompanying this shift is a change in treatment strategy--from psychological therapy to drug treatment. However, there are no drugs specifically designed to treat sexual dysfunction in women, and thus, many researchers see Viagra as the best option for treatment.
There are also certain economic factors which have spurred interest in the use of Viagra in women. Currently, Viagra is the hottest selling prescription drug on the market--and the vast majority of these prescriptions are written for men. Thus, if the market for Viagra were to expand to encompass women, then Pfizer (and other pharmaceutical companies which are working on drugs similar to Viagra) would stand to nearly double their profits.6
Testing Viagra in Women
Although Viagra has been tested thoroughly in men, no one really knows what this drug will do in women. Thus, most physicians agree that similar studies to those previously conducted in men must be performed on women to determine the efficacy and safety of the drug. One of the main problems with such a study is determining how the effects of Viagra in women can be gauged. In men, the ability to achieve erection was a relatively straightforward method of determining Viagra's efficacy, however, such a measure is not so readily available in women. Researchers argue that there may be several effects of this drug in women which must somehow be measured (amount of lubrication, blood flow, overall sexual sensation, etc.) which complicates these studies.
In Europe, Pfizer is currently conducting clinical trials of Viagra in women.7 The methods Pfizer has adopted to measure the effects of this drug in women are similar to those the company used in men--patients are given detailed questionnaires concerning several aspects of sexual arousal/performance, and the results of these surveys used to determine efficacy. The results of this study, however, are not yet available, causing some U.S. doctors to take matters into their own hands.
Although Viagra only has the approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in men, doctors are legally allowed to write prescriptions for Viagra for any person, regardless of sex. Thus, many physicians, not willing to wait for the results of clinical studies, have begun performing "proof-of-concept" studies on female patients. These studies, although often well-intended, have several problems associated with them. First, the sample size of these trials are often too small to accurately determine whether there are any significant effects caused by Viagra in women. Furthermore, these studies use different methods (doses of Viagra, method of measuring response, etc.) from one another making it impossible to examine the results of these studies as a whole. Also, because these studies tend to be conducted out of a physician's desire to help his or her patient, they tend to be performed without proper control groups--a necessary treatment in any scientific study.
The dangers associated with administering a drug that might have unknown deleterious side-effects to patients have led many in the medical community to disapprove of these "proof-of-concept" studies. Some argue that the women who participate in these studies are little more than human guinea pigs--a means to satisfy the curiosity of rogue investigators. However, these women participate in these studies, no matter how unethical they may be, because they want to--they have the right to wait for the results of more accepted clinical trials.
Some women have gone a step further and begun testing Viagra in themselves without the supervision of a physician. The results of such anecdotal studies can be found on the pages of popular magazines such as Cosmopolitan and Harper's Bazaar, as well throughout the world-wide-web. Many women who take Viagra illegally may be doing so for a number of reasons. Journalists may be cashing in on the wide-spread cultural interest in Viagra to increase their readership; others may be simply be interested in trying Viagra as a recreational drug--much like marijuana or cocaine. Regardless of motive, these anecdotal studies are dangerous. The specific effects of Viagra in women are unknown, and there is the definite possibility that Viagra can be dangerous in women who have certain heart conditions, just as in men.
Technological Addiction in America
As we move closer to the widespread use of Viagra in women, the ways we perceive sex and technology as a society become increasingly lucid. It is disturbing to many that individuals look to Viagra as some type of sexual salvation--Viagra is not a drug which has any direct effect on sexual desires, it merely treats the physiological aspects of sexual dysfunction. Our societal obsession with Viagra leads many to ask, "are we looking for science to take the place of good, old-fashioned romance?"
Although the answer to such a question is not a simple yes or no, the proliferation of Viagra in American culture is clearly related to the "Tech-Fix"--the idea that any problem can somehow be solved through technology. In the case of Viagra, there are many potential benefits for women: not only might Viagra help cure the sexual dysfunction of an estimated 30-40% of American women, but merely the idea of treating such dysfunction with drugs rather than psychoanalysis has helped bring the sexual lives of women to the forefront of discussion. However, we tread on thin ice with Viagra--the potential exists for this drug to be abused when people believe that it will somehow heighten their sexual experience.
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