Ask the Sexpert

Dear Sexpert,

I am a girl and recently I feel like I have no libido. My friend recommended that I take Viagra. Can girls take Viagra? Will it improve my sex drive?

— Low Libido

Dear Low,

These are great questions. While Viagra is a commonly used prescription drug in the United States, popular culture often perpetuates misconceptions about its clinical use. Viagra is the brand name of a drug called Sildenafil (there are other brand names, as well). Most commonly, Viagra is approved for use to treat erectile dysfunction in men. It is also used to treat symptoms of high blood pressure in both men and women. So the short answer is yes, women can take Viagra.

You ask whether Viagra is a possible solution for your decreased libido —the answer is no. Contrary to popular belief, Viagra does not improve sexual desire in either men or women. Viagra works by improving blood flow. In men with erectile dysfunction, this improved blood flow helps them to achieve an erection. There have been some studies that suggest that a similar effect may be achieved and help to improve sexual performance in certain groups of women (specifically post-menopausal women and women on anti-depressants). However, this does not increase sexual desire. Furthermore, all uses of Viagra are associated with potential side effects: visual disturbances, headaches, indigestion and muscle pain, to name a few. In sum, Viagra is not an appropriate treatment for low libido and is associated with a host of other risks.

So what can you do? Low sex drive can be caused by a myriad of factors: physical, hormonal, psychological and social. Certain medications, low estrogen levels, anxiety and depression can all impact sexual desire. While variations in sexual desire are normal, if this is a persistent concern you may want to consult a healthcare provider. You can schedule an appointment with Sexual Health and Wellness Services at University Health Services by calling 609-258-3141 or online at www.princeton.edu/MyUHS.

While this resource is confidential, you can also consult a provider off-campus at Planned Parenthood, which has numerous clinics across New Jersey. A list of health centers can be found by searching here: http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center.

— The Sexpert