Researchers at the Australian based Jean Hailes Foundation are looking into the complex role hormones play and have uncovered some surprising findings. Their aim is to understand what is normal and whether women may benefit from therapy. In a comprehensive study into women's health and hormones, researchers looked at randomly selected women aged 18-75. The results are being presented at the Endocrine Society's 86th Annual Meeting this week by Professor Susan Davis, Director of Research at The Foundation. "We undertook this study to determine whether women with low libido also had low levels of androgens. We found a strong relationship between the low scores for desire, arousal and responsiveness and low DHEAS levels in women under 45," said Professor Davis.
Until now experts have agreed that sexual dysfunction in women was illustrated by low levels of free and total testosterone. However this study has shown low testosterone bears no relationship to low libido in women under 45 years of age.
Sexual function is complex and not simply a function of hormone levels. Sexual desire involves an intricate interplay of biological changes such as hormones and psychosocial influences including relationship factors, body image, aging, menopause, social and cultural expectations.
These findings are important because women experiencing self reported low libido but have normal testosterone levels may miss out on the opportunity to access therapy options.
"Although multiple factors contribute to sexual interest we have demonstrated that low DHEAS is more likely in a woman experiencing low sexual desire and arousal than in other women. The findings from this study are absolutely fundamental to developing a sound clinical approach to the assessment of women presenting with low libido, " concluded Professor Davis. This new data will be of particular interest in the United States where DHEA has been approved for use and is available over the counter. There is need for further research for safety, efficacy, who may benefit from this treatment and public education.
