Is there any help for the surgically menopausal woman who develops hypo-sexual desire disorder (or is this Britain a male only national health service for sexual difficulties)?

Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) has in the past often been viewed mainly as a psychological or relational difficulty. As our understanding of some of the possible physical aetiology, and with the beginning of specific researched physical treatments, it is vital that nurses understand more about the assessment, treatment options and the complexity of these disorders. HSDD in surgically menopausal women, is the first of these issues to need consideration by nurses (Senagore2003). It will bring new considerations for practitioners as it involves the possible need to link with other professionals for a total care package.

Intrinsa a thin, clear patch worn on the abdomen, was applied twice a week, which delivered a low dose of testosterone (300 micrograms/24 hours) and achieved serum testosterone concentrations compatible with premenopausal levels. The testosterone used in this patch is identical to testosterone produced naturally in all women.

The results for Mary were that she felt back in control of her body because she had been given adequate information about the treatment and understood what it was doing. She was glad to have the use of the appropriate medication and her increased confidence was obvious. The treatment had been effective and was a socially-acceptable treatment option for her. She appeared to have had no side effects.