OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a newly developed non-hormonal arousal gel met expectations and was effective in increasing women's sexual arousal, orgasmic intensity, sexual satisfaction and pleasure. DESIGN: This study was an in-home, open pilot use test of an arousal gel with 500 sexually active heterosexual women, ages 18-59, who had indicated prior interest in using a product that might increase sexual arousal. Study subjects (Ss) completed an online questionnaire post gel use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After meeting inclusion criteria, subjects were provided with the arousal gel and instructions for use. Following a one week trial period, all subjects completed a 65 question on-line assessment to determine overall product experience and whether the product met expectations. The study questionnaire included assessment regarding enhanced arousal, orgasmic intensity, pleasure and satisfaction during sexual activity with product use. Questionnaires were also designed to assess subjects’ sexual experience using the gel compared to their typical intimate experience on a variety of dimensions: arousal, orgasmic ease and intensity, sensitivity, pleasure, sensation, and emotional satisfaction. Adverse events were also assessed. Statistics: Summary statistics were completed on all questionnaire responses. RESULTS: The product was positively assessed on virtually all dimensions with 79% of respondents noting the product met or exceeded expectations; 78% of respondents reported increased sensitivity in their genital area, and of these, over 90% believed the gel made their intimate experience better. A majority of Ss strongly or somewhat agreed with statements regarding enhanced arousal, orgasmic intensity, pleasure and satisfaction during sexual activity with product use in at least six key areas. A majority of Ss strongly agreed with at least six key product attributes, for example: “is not a drug” and “increases clitoral stimulation”. Few adverse effects were reported; >10% of subjects reported an unexpected or unusual reaction, generally mild and short in duration, associated with use of the gel (e.g., itching, burning, stinging, tingling, warming, cooling). CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, the hormone free arousal gel favorably enhanced sexual sensations, orgasmic ease, pleasure and arousal and elicited an acceptable level of self reported adverse events.