Summary of the recommendations on sexual dysfunctions in women

Abstract

Introduction: Women's sexual dysfunction includes reduced interest/incentives for sexual engagement, difficulties with becoming subjectively and/or genitally aroused, difficulties in triggering desire during sexual engagement, orgasm disorder, and sexual pain.

Aim: To update the recommendations published in 2004, from the 2nd International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) pertaining to the diagnosis and treatment of women's sexual dysfunctions.

Methods: A third international consultation in collaboration with the major sexual medicine associations assembled over 186 multidisciplinary experts from 33 countries into 25 committees. Twenty one experts from six countries contributed to the Recommendations on Sexual Dysfunctions in Women.

Main outcome measure: Expert opinion was based on grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate.

Results: A comprehensive assessment of medical, sexual, and psychosocial history is recommended for diagnosis and management. Indications for general and focused pelvic genital examination are identified. Evidence based recommendations for further revisions of definitions for sexual disorders are given. An evidence based approach to management is provided. Extensive references are provided in the full ICSM reports.

Conclusions: There remains a need for more research and scientific reporting on the optimal management of women's sexual dysfunctions including multidisciplinary approaches.