Recent clinical research from a study published in Frontiers in Medicine demonstrates the efficacy of acupuncture in improving libido and sexual function in women diagnosed with Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD). The study, conducted by Zhang et al., employed a structured acupuncture regimen that led to significant improvements across multiple domains of sexual health, including desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and reduction of pain during intercourse.
The study involved 24 female participants aged between 28 and 45 years, all clinically diagnosed with FSD. Participants received acupuncture treatments over a period ranging from one week to three months, with treatment frequency of two to three sessions per week depending on individual needs. Evaluations were conducted using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a widely recognized tool that assesses six domains of sexual health.
Acupuncture Treatment
The acupuncture protocol focused on tonifying kidney essence, regulating the Chong and Ren meridians, and alleviating mental stress. The aim was to harmonize the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and hypothalamic–pituitary–gonad axes.
The disposable sterile acupuncture needles had the following specifications: 0.20 × 25 mm, 0.20 × 50 mm, and 0.30 × 75 mm. Electroacupuncture was administered using the Da Jia pulse acupuncture electrotherapy instrument from Shantou Medical Equipment Factory Co., LTD.
The acupuncture point treatment groups were classified into front and back groups, with each group being alternately used every other day, resulting in 2–3 sessions per week. Needles were retained for 30 minutes per session. The back group received electroacupuncture with the intensity adjusted to the density wave tolerated by the patient. [1]
Specific Acupuncture Points and Techniques
In the front group, the following acupoints were used:
- GV24 (Shenting), GB13 (Benshen) (bilateral), and GV20 (Baihui): Needled at a depth of 0.5–1 inches using a posterior transverse-oblique acupuncture technique.
- CV12 (Zhongwan), ST25 (Tianshu), GB26 (Daimai), Huangshu (KI16), CV4 (Guanyuan), KD12 (Dahe), and ST36 (Zusanli): Bilateral needling with a perpendicular insertion to depth of 1–1.5 inches, except for CV12 (Zhongwan) and CV4 (Guanyuan).
- SP6 (Sanyinjiao), KD3 (Taixi), and LV3 (Taichong): Direct needling bilaterally, with a depth of 0.5–1 inches.
In the back group, the following acupoints were targeted:
- BL23 (Shenshu): Needled 1–1.5 inches bilaterally.
- BL32 (Ciliao): Acupuncture performed obliquely towards the median line of the second sacral foramen at a depth of 2–2.5 inches, with bilateral needling.
Clinical Outcomes
Significant improvements were observed in all FSFI domains:
- Desire: Mean scores improved from 2.38 to 3.68.
- Arousal: Increased from 2.71 to 3.95.
- Lubrication: Enhanced from 3.50 to 4.93.
- Orgasm: Rose from 3.23 to 4.41.
- Satisfaction: Improved from 3.50 to 4.75.
- Pain Reduction: Scores improved from 3.20 to 4.58.
The total FSFI score increased from 18.52 to 26.32, highlighting a substantial enhancement in overall sexual function. Notably, 100% of participants experienced improvements in arousal and lubrication, while 95.83% reported reduced pain during intercourse. [1]
Biomedical Findings
The study suggested that acupuncture's effects might be mediated through modulation of the neuroendocrine system, particularly the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis. Changes in serum hormone levels, including estrogen and testosterone, were observed. Additionally, neurotransmitter modulation, such as increases in dopamine and serotonin levels, contributed to reduced anxiety and depression, further enhancing sexual function.
Conclusion
This clinical study offers compelling evidence for the use of acupuncture as a viable treatment for FSD. The detailed protocol and clinical data provide a valuable guide for licensed acupuncturists seeking to integrate similar approaches into their practice.
Source:
[1] Zhang, H., et al. "Efficacy of Acupuncture on Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Pilot Study." Frontiers in Medicine, 2024.
