Neuromodulation for the treatment of sexual dysfunction: An opportunity for the field

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction affects a substantial number of women and men. Currently there are no commercially available neuromodulation therapies for sexual dysfunction. Neuromodulation has long been used as a third-line therapy for bladder and bowel dysfunction, with frequent reports of utility for sexual dysfunction. Sacral neuromodulation has a robust literature showing benefits in sexual function for implant recipients. Tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) has seen a recent growth in studies for sexual dysfunction. Transcutaneous TNS provides a lower-barrier neuromodulation approach with potential efficacy for male and female sexual dysfunction. Other neuromodulation approaches, including spinal cord stimulation and dorsal genital nerve stimulation also have potential as therapies for sexual dysfunction. There is a considerable opportunity for one or more neuromodulation therapies to enter an open market space.