Female sexual dysfunction (FSD)

Recent research suggests that a large number of women are dissatisfied with their sexual life due to sexual dysfunction. The accepted definitions of female sexual dysfunction are based on the human sexual response cycle described by Masters and Johnson and later elaborated by Kaplan. Their work formed the basis for the diagnostic systems of both the ICD-10 and DSM IV. Female sexual dysfunction may appear as lack of sexual desire, sexual pain, and arousal or orgasmic dysfunction. Although these problems are very common in women and more common than in males, for many years this field of interest was neglected both scientifically and clinically. In the past, only psychological and sexological forms of therapy were suggested. It is now better understood that, as in many other areas, the junction between the body and the mind, is responsible for many sex problems in women. Furthermore, multi professional team work is needed to treat these problems in order to enhance better quality of life for individuals and couples. This editorial calls for better education and research in this important field.