Sexual Medicine Research Team
Our Latest Works
The multidisciplinary nature of our focused Gender and Sexuality Research Center has been the major strength of our research since we began our work in 2010. SMRT has a variety of ongoing projects ranging from specialties such as Urology, OB/GYN, psychiatry and everything in between!
This study evaluated how female sexual medicine is taught across seven medical schools in the Chicago area. Researchers found significant gaps and inconsistencies in education related to female sexual anatomy, sexual dysfunction, clinical evaluation, and treatment. The findings highlight the need for more standardized and comprehensive training so future physicians are better prepared to recognize and address female sexual health concerns.
This study examined how female sexual medicine is taught across seven medical schools in the Chicago area. Researchers found substantial variation and gaps in training on female sexual anatomy, sexual dysfunction, clinical evaluation, and treatment. The findings underscore the need for more standardized medical education to better prepare future physicians to recognize and care for patients experiencing female sexual dysfunction.
This study examined female sexual medicine education across seven medical schools in the Chicago area. Researchers identified significant variation in how topics such as female sexual anatomy, sexual function, sexual dysfunction, clinical evaluation, and treatment were incorporated into medical school curricula. The findings highlight important gaps in undergraduate medical education and support the development of more comprehensive and standardized training in female sexual health.
Patient with Severe Clitoral Phimosis and Smegmatic Cyst: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
This case report describes a rare and severe presentation of clitoral phimosis with a large smegmatic cyst that developed after years of untreated clitoral adhesions. The authors detail a minimally invasive surgical approach that successfully removed the cyst, restored clitoral mobility, and preserved sensation. Following treatment, the patient experienced improved sexual sensation and orgasm without pain or recurrence. The report highlights the importance of recognizing and treating clitoral adhesions early to prevent more advanced complications.
This review introduces the concept of genitourinary syndrome of lactation (GSL) to describe vaginal and urinary symptoms that can occur during breastfeeding. Hormonal changes associated with lactation can contribute to vaginal dryness, tissue changes, painful intercourse, and urinary symptoms, yet these concerns are often underrecognized during postpartum care. The authors highlight the need for greater awareness, consistent screening, and clearer treatment guidance for breastfeeding patients experiencing these symptoms.
This study explored the experiences of patients seeking diagnosis and treatment for chronic pelvic, vulvar, and vaginal pain conditions. Through a survey of 341 participants, the researchers examined how communication with healthcare providers can shape the diagnostic journey, particularly when pain is dismissed, normalized, or misunderstood. The study emphasizes the importance of listening to and validating patients’ symptoms, as thoughtful physician communication may help reduce medical trauma and improve the experience of seeking care for chronic pelvic pain.
This study examines how sexual medicine is taught across medical schools in the northeastern United States. Researchers are evaluating medical school curricula against recommended standards in areas such as sexual development, anatomy and physiology, sexual response, reproductive health, and contraception. The project aims to identify gaps and inconsistencies in sexual health education and help guide the development of more comprehensive and standardized training for future physicians.
This study examined whether clitoral anatomy is associated with sexual function after vaginal surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. Using postoperative MRI and 3D models, researchers found that poorer sexual function was associated with differences in clitoral size, position, and shape, including a smaller clitoral glans and a clitoral complex positioned farther from the pubic bone. The findings highlight the importance of considering clitoral anatomy and preservation when evaluating sexual outcomes after pelvic surgery.
This study evaluated resident physicians’ training and confidence in diagnosing and treating common female sexual dysfunctions. Among 141 residents across multiple specialties, fewer than half reported formal training in examining key areas such as the clitoris, vulvar vestibule, and pelvic floor, and most felt uncomfortable diagnosing or managing female sexual health conditions. The findings highlight significant gaps in residency education and the need for more comprehensive training in female sexual medicine.
This study examined how clitoral and vestibular bulb anatomy changes across the adult lifespan. Using pelvic MRI and 3D anatomical modeling in 134 women ages 19 to 80, researchers found that increasing age was associated with a shorter clitoral body, smaller vestibular bulbs, and a lower position of the clitoral-vestibular bulb complex within the pelvis. The findings provide new insight into age-related changes in female genital anatomy and how these changes may contribute to sexual function and other pelvic symptoms.
This review explores how sexual devices, therapeutic tools, and erotica can support both sexual pleasure and the treatment of female sexual dysfunction. The authors discuss commonly used options—including vibrators, dilators, pelvic wands, depth-limiting devices, and other sexual aids—and review their potential clinical applications. The article emphasizes that greater physician familiarity with these tools can help clinicians provide more comprehensive, individualized care and better support patients’ sexual health and quality of life.
This study examined the experiences of medical students living with pelvic and vulvovaginal pain and explored potential gaps in medical education surrounding these conditions. Nearly half of survey respondents reported experiencing pelvic or vulvovaginal pain, and many described barriers to seeking care, including stigma, limited time, and concerns about symptoms being dismissed. Most students also felt their medical training did not adequately address the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions. The findings highlight the need for improved education, greater awareness, and better support for both patients and future physicians experiencing pelvic and vulvovaginal pain.
Understanding the functional significance of the labia minora: a scoping review on sexual physiology
This scoping review explores the anatomy and functional significance of the labia minora, an important but historically understudied part of female genital anatomy. Reviewing 27 studies, the authors found that the labia minora contain a rich blood supply and a high density of nerve endings, supporting an important role in sexual arousal and sensation. The review also highlights substantial natural variation in labial anatomy and identifies major gaps in understanding how anatomy, hormones, and aging may influence sexual function. The authors emphasize the need for further research to improve clinical care for vulvar and sexual health conditions.
This review provides a comprehensive overview of female sexual function and the diagnosis and treatment of common sexual dysfunctions, including low sexual desire, arousal difficulties, orgasm disorders, and genitopelvic pain. The authors emphasize a patient-centered approach that combines a detailed sexual history, careful examination of the pelvic floor and vulvovaginal anatomy, and consideration of biological, psychological, relationship, and sociocultural factors. The review highlights the importance of individualized, evidence-based treatment plans that reflect each patient’s symptoms, needs, and personal goals.