VIAGRA FOR WOMEN

At the blogsite io9, George Dvorsky recently reported that "A clinical trial is about to get underway in Australia, Canada, and other parts of the world to test a new female 'sex-drive' drug that would increase the libido of women suffering from 'female orgasmic disorder'.  Called Tefina, it is a testosterone gel that is sprayed up the nose about an hour before a sexual encounter.  The developers say the drug could boost female sexual arousal and satisfaction."

The article goes on to say that "surveys indicate that 30 percent of women cannot climax during intercourse.  For many women, this inability translates into sexual activity becoming a chore or a duty instead of a shared positive experience .... Differences in sexual satisfaction in a relationship commonly lead to the development of substantial tension within the relationship.

"Clearly, women need to be mindful of their reasons for taking a drug like Tefina while remaining wary of corporate intrusions in the bedroom.  But some of the arguments against its development and use sound nothing short of paternalistic (whether they come from a man or a woman).  It also sounds condescending ~ as if women don't understand their own sexuality and how to manage it .... Ultimately, when it comes to a female Viagra or a male contraceptive, it's about personal choice and a person's right to have access to these technologies.  Assuming they're safe and effective, we can decide for ourselves how to best use them."

Male erectile dysfunction and its treatment, the drug Viagra, have received so much attention in recent years that it's surprising that it has taken this long to examine the female counterpart.  After all, a legitimate physiological need exists, which translates to a lucrative market for treatment.  There may be some women who hesitate to inhale a hormone mist ~ those women should consult with their physician or perhaps a therapist for objective information and encouragement.

There may also be some women who hesitate over the seeming artificiality of "planning" one's sexual encounters, and inhaling the mist an hour beforehand.  Speaking as a male who has used viagra for several years, I offer reassurance that it's really no big deal.  If anything, when a couple gets that mutual gleam in their eye and decides its time for the sublime intimacy of a romp in bed, the delay adds a rather delicious anticipation.

The primary difference seems to be that when a man uses Viagra, his sexual performance and enjoyment are enhanced by up to four hours, but the drug inhibits reaching orgasm.  For a woman, Tefina's intent is explicitly to heighten arousal and orgasm.  For individuals or couples who, by reason of age or other condition experience a less-than-satisfying sex life, one or both drugs could open up new horizons of bliss.