Disorders of orgasm in women: a literature review of etiology and current treatments

Abstract

Introduction: Disorders of orgasm in women, defined as the persistent or recurrent delay in or absence of orgasm, affect up to a quarter of the female population.

Aim: To review existing research findings on the etiology and treatments of disorders of orgasm in women to provide a useful reference tool for clinicians who evaluate and treat patients with these conditions.

Methods: PubMed and PsycINFO search for articles published between 1980 and 2009 using the keywords "orgasm*,""anorgasmia," and "female*,""woman," or "women," in addition to "female orgasmic disorder" and "disorders of orgasm in women."

Main outcome measures: Findings on the etiological factors and effects of a variety of treatment interventions on improving disorders of orgasm in women. Results. Literature on prevalence and causes of disorders of orgasm in women is abundant, yet more reports of successful treatments are needed. Nevertheless, many promising approaches have been suggested, and data support several potential treatments such as bupropion, sildenafil, estrogen, and testosterone among others.

Conclusions: Although more research is needed to better understand and manage disorders of orgasm in women, significant progress is being made.