The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a device for treating female sexual arousal disorder, a condition characterized by the inability to reach orgasm, vaginal dryness, lack of clitoral sensation or diminished interest in sex. Previously, estrogen therapy and vaginal lubricants to relieve dryness were the main treatments available, but now UroMetrics Inc.’s Eros is the first FDA-approved product to address clitoral dysfunction. The device consists of a soft suction cup that is placed over the clitoris. The cup is attached via a tube to a handheld battery-operated vacuum. Women can turn the vacuum suction up or down as needed until the clitoris feels engorged, and then remove the device. In a study of 15 women with female sexual arousal disorder, 80 percent reported increased sexual satisfaction or orgasms after using Eros. However, the FDA cautions that the device will not work for every woman. It is approved to be sold by prescription only.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: www.intelihealth.com 5/6/00
