Vitamin D and Sex hormones in female patients with sexual dysfunction: A narrative review

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

2 Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

3 Assistant Professor of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is one of the critical problems that affect many females. Not all patients complain of this problem as it is an embarrassing multifactorial complaint. Herein, we review the etiology, Pathogenesis, and types of FSD and present the available literature to-date regarding a possible relationship between sex hormones and FSD. We conclude that further study is necessary to discern whether there may be a significant relationship between vitamin D and sex hormones and sexual dysfunction in females. Sexual dysfunction affects women's quality of life and relationships. Vitamin D modulates sex hormones and other physiological functions beyond bone health. Vitamin D levels and sex hormones in female sexual dysfunction patients are examined in this narrative review. Evidence shows that vitamin D insufficiency may change sex hormone levels in women, causing sexual dysfunction. Vitamin D regulates estrogen production, androgen levels, and reproductive system processes, which are important for sexual health. Low vitamin D levels are linked to depression, reduced libido, and poor sexual function, highlighting its complicated role in female sexual health. This study summarizes current research on vitamin D, sex hormones, and sexual dysfunction in women, suggesting therapeutic implications. Vitamin D supplementation as an additional therapy for female sexual dysfunction needs more study to determine its causes and effectiveness.

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