Journal of Women's Health Care
Open Access

Exploring Sexual Dysfunctions in Females with Parkinson’s disease.

Ghina Ghazeeri^{* *}Correspondence: Ghina Ghazeeri, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon, Email:

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Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and coordination. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. PD is commonly associated with motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. However, it can also cause non-motor symptoms, including sexual dysfunctions. Sexual dysfunctions are common in both men and women with PD. In females with PD, sexual dysfunctions are particularly prevalent and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Sexual dysfunctions can manifest in various ways and can be broadly classified into three categories: desire disorders, arousal disorders, and orgasmic disorders [1].

Desire disorders refer to a lack of sexual desire or interest in sexual activity. In females with PD, desire disorders may be caused by the disease itself or the medications used to treat it. Dopamine agonists, a common class of medication used to treat PD, have been shown to reduce sexual desire in some women. Additionally, depression and anxiety, which are common in people with PD, can also contribute to desire disorders. Arousal disorders refer to difficulty becoming sexually aroused or maintaining arousal during sexual activity. In females with PD, arousal disorders may be caused by reduced blood flow to the genitals, which can be a result of the disease itself or the medications used to treat it. Women with PD may also experience vaginal dryness, which can make sexual activity uncomfortable or painful [2].

Orgasmic disorders refer to difficulty achieving orgasm or a decrease in the intensity of orgasms. In females with PD, orgasmic disorders may be caused by a combination of physical and psychological factors. The loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain can affect the ability to experience pleasure, including during sexual activity. Additionally, anxiety and depression can reduce sexual satisfaction and orgasmic intensity. Treating sexual dysfunctions in females with PD can be challenging, as it often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Patients should be evaluated for any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to sexual dysfunctions, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes. Medications that may be contributing to sexual dysfunctions should also be evaluated and adjusted if necessary [3].

Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, may be helpful for addressing anxiety and depression, which can contribute to sexual dysfunctions. Additionally, physical interventions, such as the use of vaginal lubricants or hormone replacement therapy, may be helpful for addressing vaginal dryness and reduced blood flow to the genitals. Overall, sexual dysfunctions in females with PD are common and can significantly impact quality of life. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach and should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and preferences. It is important for healthcare providers to address sexual dysfunctions with their patients with PD to improve overall quality of life and well-being [4].

Orgasmic dysfunction, the inability to reach orgasm despite adequate sexual stimulation, is another sexual dysfunction observed in females with Parkinson's disease. It can be attributed to various factors, including decreased sensitivity, muscle rigidity, medication side effects, and emotional factors like anxiety and stress. Parkinson's-related changes in the autonomic nervous system may also affect orgasmic response [5].

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