"Women's Libido" from the Catalyst program on ABC Television aired at 8:00pm on Thursday, 20 May, 2004.
The story outline from the ABC
Viagra changed the face of men's sexual medicine and now many women want their own. But researchers have just announced Viagra for women doesn't work. This fascinating report explores our current state of knowledge about the factors affecting women's sexual functioning as they age, and asks the fundamental question: will there ever be Viagra for women? Is this the end of the search - or will testosterone be the new women's Viagra? And what about the pill that suppresses women's libido - have we overlooked the effects of the contraceptive pill?
These are the questions Australian researchers are asking as they try to provide women with what Viagra does for men. But, not everyone agrees we should be providing medication for sex.
For the full transcript from the ABC Catalyst website click here. |
Comment
The Jean Hailes Foundation’s primary focus is the health and wellbeing of Australian women particularly those approaching, at and beyond midlife.
| “Vast numbers of women across Australia endure symptoms such as low libido and reduced sexual pleasure every day and many do so in silence, believing it is just their lot and something they will have to live with. “
Professor Susan Davis |
Having completed many studies involving women of all ages, The Jean Hailes NHMRC Centre for Clinical Research Excellence has identified increasing numbers of women experiencing sexual dissatisfaction.
The Foundation is seeking to understand the complex family of sex hormones and the major health issues affecting Australian women. These include the links between oestrogen, androgens and cardiovascular disease, dementia and osteoarthritis, and new ways of assessing sexual health in women of all ages.
| “We are aware that women of all ages experience sexual dissatisfaction which can have disastrous effects on a woman’s self confidence, relationship with her partner and ultimately her state of mind.”
Professor Susan Davis |
The study of hormones and particularly testosterone is controversial because there are many misconceptions in the community, which need addressing.
Fulfilling sexual experiences are an important part of a woman’s personal health and wellbeing. Unsatisfactory sexual function is more common amongst women than men and can lead to symptoms such as loss of desire and a decrease in pleasure.
Researchers at The Jean Hailes Foundation are addressing the complex role of testosterone in women from production through to action and trying to understand what is normal, what is safe and whether women might benefit from therapy.
| “Although there are many factors that can influence a woman’s sexuality, it has been found that hormones called androgens, such as testosterone, play an important role and that women with low levels of these hormones often suffer from decreased sexual pleasure.”
Professor Susan Davis |
ResourcesMore information relating to libido and hormones:
For consumers
Sexuality
Libido
Testosterone
For health professionals
Testosterone for Women - written for health professionals.
Content updated June 23, 2005
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 22 December 2007 )
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