Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is often prescribed to men with erectile dysfunction (ED). This means that they cannot get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. The drug works by relaxing smooth muscle tissue in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in and form an erection.
When women are sexually aroused, blood flows to their genitals, too. The vagina lubricates, and the clitoris swells and becomes more sensitive.
However, there has been little medical research conducted to see if Viagra might benefit women with arousal problems. Studies have had conflicting results.
A 2003 study of 202 postmenopausal women with sexual arousal disorder reported that women who took sildenafil citrate saw more improvements in arousal sensation, lubrication, and orgasm compared to women who took a placebo drug. But women who had hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD – a persistent lack of sexual interest) in addition to arousal disorder had no significant improvement.
Other studies have shown no improvements and point out that side effects like headache, nausea, a stuffy nose, and vision problems are possible.
Also, Viagra and drugs like it work to inhibit an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which plays a role in erectile dysfunction. Women’s genital tissues have smaller amounts of PDE5 than men’s do, and this difference could explain why Viagra might not be as effective in women.
There are many factors that come into play for a woman to become fully aroused.
Some are physical. For example, the hormone estrogen (produced by the ovaries) is important for keeping the vagina flexible and lubricated. When women’s estrogen levels drop at menopause, they might have more trouble becoming lubricated. Similarly, if a woman has problem with her ovaries, of if the ovaries have been removed or damaged during cancer treatment, her body will not produce enough estrogen, resulting in vaginal dryness.
Poor arousal may also be linked to health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Psychological factors can be involved, too. If a woman is anxious about sex or unhappy in her relationship, she might have problems becoming aroused.
Women who have trouble with sexual arousal are encouraged to talk to their doctor. Sometimes, treating the underlying problem helps. Women may benefit from estrogen therapy, if appropriate. Lubricants and moisturizers, which can be purchased over the counter, may provide the lubrication women need for comfortable sex.
If arousal problems have a psychological base, counseling and sex therapy are treatment options.
Women should not try Viagra or other ED medications without the advice of a doctor.