Flibanserin, sometimes referred to in the popular press as “female Viagra,” is a drug that is being touted as a non-hormonal treatment for pre-menopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HSDD was recognized as a distinct sexual function disorder for more than 30 years, but was removed from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2013, and replaced with a new diagnosis called female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). Studies indicate the medication increases the number of satisfying sexual events per month by about one half to one over placebo from a starting point of about two to three. In this podcast, Dr. Laurie Steelsmith discusses the complexities of female libido, the physiologic mechanism and risks associated with Flibanserin, as well as natural alternatives for stimulating libido.
Laurie Steelsmith is a licensed naturopathic physician and acupuncturist, and co-author of the critically acclaimed book Great Sex Natural. A leading spokesperson on the topic of natural medicine, she has appeared on CNN’s HealthWatch, and numerous other television and radio programs. She is frequently quoted in popular publications, including Woman’s World, Self, Natural Health, Women’s Health, Body and Soul, Better Nutrition, Vegetarian Times, Alternative Medicine, Oprah.com, WebMD, Health, First for Women, and Delicious Living. We had the opportunity to talk with her recently about her book and her recommendations for women of all ages to enhance their sexuality using natural medicine.
Click the play button below to listen to the phone interview with Dr. Laurie Steelsmith about Flibanserin, the new drug for boosting female libido.
