An online program called eSense appeared to be effective for the treatment of sexual interest/arousal disorder (SIAD) in women, according to new research.
The program led to significant improvement in symptoms of sexual dysfunction, such as low sexual desire and sexual distress. These improvements were maintained for 6 months, the study authors wrote.
“Low sexual desire in women is extremely common and distressing, and most women do not seek out or receive evidence-based treatment, leaving them to suffer in silence for a prolonged period,” senior author Lori Brotto, PhD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of British Columbia and executive director of the Women’s Health Research Institute at BC Women’s Hospital in Vancouver, told Medscape Medical News.
“eSense is very effective, with lasting improvements, and can be used alongside nonexpert support to increase adherence to the program,” she said. “Also, there was little difference in outcomes between mindfulness-based therapy [MBT] and cognitive-behavioral therapy [CBT], suggesting that both may be efficacious and leaving users to select which they might use.”
Lafortune-Sgambato, who wasn’t involved with this study, has researched sexual dysfunction prevalence, barriers to sexual health services, and CBT approaches.
“In 2025, it’s crucial for healthcare systems and insurance providers to expand funding, research support, and coverage of digital sexual health interventions and telehealth programs,” he said. “The future of sexual healthcare will increasingly be digital and patient-focused, and clinicians should become familiar with these innovative tools to ensure comprehensive, inclusive, and equitable care for their patients.”
Ref: https://www.medscape.com/
