The Neurobiology of Sexual Function

The document from 2000 provides a comprehensive review of the neurobiological factors influencing sexual function, including hormones, neurotransmitters, and central nervous system structures. It concludes that testosterone is necessary for maintaining sexual function in men, particularly in those with hypogonadism, but there is no clear correlation between testosterone levels and sexual behavior in normal adult males. In women, testosterone and androgens are linked to sexual interest, and testosterone treatment may benefit those with hypoactive sexual desire. Estrogens and progesterone do not significantly impact sexual desire, while high prolactin levels are associated with decreased sexual interest. Oxytocin increases during sexual arousal and orgasm, potentially playing a role in sexual desire. The document also discusses the effects of pheromones, nitric oxide, serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters on sexual behavior, noting that substances like sildenafil (Viagra) can treat erectile dysfunction by affecting nitric oxide pathways. It highlights the complexity of sexual response, especially in women, and the challenges in measuring and understanding it due to the low correlation between physiological measures and subjective reports of arousal. The review emphasizes the need for more human studies to better understand these neurobiological mechanisms.