Female sexual function and the clitoral complex using pelvic MRI assessment

Abstract

ObjectiveTo report basic measurements of clitoral anatomy, and explore potential relationships between the clitoral complex and female sexual function using MRI assessment. Study designIn this retrospective descriptive study, 20 sexually active women (≥18 years) who had a recent pelvic MRI for various gynecologic concerns were invited to participate. Outcome measures included demographic data, medical and sexual history, quality of life questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire (BESAQ), and Short Form Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-12). These data were then compared to detailed clitoral MRI measurements and analyzed using the Pearson correlation and Chi square test. ResultsFSFI domains of desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm were inversely correlated with clitoral size (p=0.01–0.04), as were SF-12 physical composite scores (p=0.003), suggesting improved sexual function and physical health in women with smaller clitoral structures (specifically the clitoral body and crus). ConclusionSexual function was improved in women with a smaller-sized clitoris, specifically the clitoral body and crus.