Neuromodulation and Sexual Function in Women

Abstract

Although up to half of the female population may suffer from sexual dysfunction, few treatment options are available. During the past decade, a great deal of research has been devoted to studying not only the etiology of these disorders, but also possible treatment modalities. Neuromodulation is an effective therapy for urinary urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, and urinary retention, and it may also play a role in altering the sexual response. Unfortunately, few studies have evaluated the effects of neuromodulation on sexual dysfunctions; therefore, only limited conclusions can be drawn. We present a review of the current literature that focuses on neuromodulation with electrical stimulation and on chemical neuromodulation with botulinum toxin.