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Semin Reprod Med 2006; 24(2): 086-096
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939567
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Clinical Evaluation of Women Presenting with Low Libido and Determination of Whether Androgen Therapy Might Be Appropriate

Mary-Anne Papalia1 , Henry Burger2
  • 1Endocrinologist, Women's Health Program, Department of Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
  • 2Endocrinologist, Emeritus Director, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 April 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The assessment of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is often challenging in the clinical setting. Although androgen deficiency is regarded as a major cause for FSD, the causes of this condition are multifactorial. Women presenting with FSD require thorough clinical evaluation to determine the cause of FSD. Androgen therapy should be used in women only when clinical and biochemical parameters indicate that FSD stems from androgen deficiency. This review outlines the various causes of FSD, clinical and biochemical investigations required to diagnose androgen deficiency, and options for treatment of the woman found to have androgen deficiency as a cause of FSD.

KEYWORDS

Androgens - female - sexual - dysfunction - evaluation

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 Dr.
Mary-Anne PapaliaM.D. FRACP 

Endocrinologist, Women's Health Program, Department of Medicine, Monash University, Alfred Hospital, Commercial Road, Prahran, Victoria 3181, Australia

Email: mary-anne.papalia@med.monash.edu.au

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