Physiologic measures of sexual function in women: a review

Abstract

Results-Many unique physiologic methods of evaluating female sexual function have been developed over the last four decades. Each method has its benefits and limitations.Conclusions-Many physiologic methods exist, but most are not well-validated. Additionally, there has been an inability to correlate most physiologic measures with subjective measures of sexual arousal. Furthermore, given the complex nature of the sexual response in women, physiologic measures should be considered in context of other data, including the history, physical exam, and validated questionnaires. Nonetheless, the existence of appropriate physiologic measures is vital to our understanding of female sexual function and dysfunction.

Vaginal microcirculation: Non-invasive anatomical examination of the micro-vessel architecture, tortuosity and capillary density

“…Several indirect methods have been developed to evaluate the vaginal blood flow. Vaginal photoplethysmography has been the most commonly used method to evaluate vaginal vasocongestion . It allows measurement of phasic changes in vaginal vasocongestion in the peripheral vessels with every heartbeat (VPA).…”

“…It allows measurement of phasic changes in vaginal vasocongestion in the peripheral vessels with every heartbeat (VPA). Other methods to assess genital blood flow are duplex Doppler ultrasound (gray scale or color), and laser Doppler flowmetry . Doppler ultrasound uses standard ultrasound methods to provide information about the speed and direction of blood flow through the vessel being evaluated.…”

Vaginal Agenesis, the Hymen, and Associated Anomalies

“…17,28e30 Lubrication during sexual intercourse is thought to be derived from several processes, including transudation through the vaginal epithelium and secretions from the uterus and from the vestibular glandsdthe greater vestibular glands (Bartholin's glands) and the lesser vestibular glands (the periurethral or Skene's glands). 31,32 An abnormal urethral opening has been noted by others, 15 which raises the possibility that the periurethral glands may also be abnormal. However, the contribution of secretions from these vestibular glands in lubrication during sexual intercourse is not known.…”

The Effects of Vaginal Prolapse Surgery Using Synthetic Mesh on Vaginal Wall Sensibility, Vaginal Vasocongestion, and Sexual Function: A Prospective Single‐Center Study

“…The photoplethysmography component of the probe consists of a light source and an optical sensor, which allows for measurement of phasic changes in vaginal vasocongestion in the peripheral vessels with every heartbeat. It is a reliable, specific, and sensitive measure, with increased amplitudes indicating increased vaginal vasocongestion [16]. Four pulse‐generating electrodes were used to assess vaginal wall sensibility.…”