Sexual Problems in Women

Researchers at VGH and UBC are investigating the efficacy of two types of group therapy for women with sexual desire and/or arousal difficulties, both of which involve 8 sessions of discussion and education about sexuality: Mindfulness-Based Therapy ("MIND") and Sex Therapy, Education, and Support ("STEP"). You will be randomly assigned to particpate in one type of therapy, and complete assessments before and after treatment.

Recruitment Poster

Women with Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) have all measures of testosterone activity comparable to controls but lower levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Although DHEA is a precursor of testosterone it has other actions including involvement in the stress system. It is also linked to mood. This study focuses on measures of childhood stress, current mood and salivary and nail stress hormones, in women with and without HSDD.