Central Nervous System Based Neurogenic Female Sexual Dysfunction: Current Status and Future Trends

The amount of information available regarding the impact of various central nervous system disorders on female sexual function has greatly increased. In this article, the most recent information regarding brain and spinal cord disorders in human females is reviewed. Evidence from women with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) supports findings in able-bodied females that the sympathetic nervous system provides regulation of psychogenic sexual arousal. In women with SCIs, the ability to achieve orgasm persists in approximately 50%; however, there is a relative inability to achieve orgasm with complete disruption of the sacral reflex arc. These natural effects of injury should be considered when educating patients about neurogenic sexual dysfunction and when developing treatment protocols. Published research protocols aimed at improving sexual responsiveness and future possibilities for treatment of neurogenic sexual dysfunction are also discussed.