Qhen we talk about “female Viagra” we already start with a misconception. The term was created to simplify, but in reality it creates more confusion than anything else. The Viagra (sildenafil) it works because it increases blood flow to the corpora cavernosa: it is a peripheral, mechanical response. In women, however, sexual desire is never just a question of “the blood that arrives”, but it is a much more complex balance that starts from the brain, explains the gynecologist Monica Calcagni.
How Craving Drugs Really Work
And it is precisely at the brain level that the drugs often incorrectly defined as “female Viagra” act. The first is Flibanserinindicated for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. As he clarifies Monica CalcagniThis drug acts on neurotransmitters: reduces the activity of serotonin (which inhibits desire) e increases dopamine and norepinephrine (which instead make it easier).
In other words, it does not directly stimulate desire, but removes a brake.
It is not an “as needed” pill
One of the most important aspects to clarify concerns the hiring methods. As he points out Monica Calcagniit is not an “as needed” pill: it does not work immediately. It must be taken every day and the effect builds over time. It’s modulation work, not a switch.
Bremelanotide: faster but still central
The more recent it is Bremelanotide, used “on demand”before intercourse, by subcutaneous injection. Even in this case, he clarifies Monica Calcagnithe mechanism is completely different from sildenafil: the drug acts on specific brain receptors (melanocortins), influencing the desire circuits. It is quicker, but it still remains a central intervention, not a peripheral one.
Female desire is not a linear function
The key point, he underlines Monica Calcagniis that the Female sexual desire is not linear. It is not a simple “on/off”, but a complex balance influenced by various factors:
- hormonal status
- quality of the relationship
- stress, tiredness, mental load
- body image
- any trauma or previous experiences
- cultural and educational context.
Thinking of solving everything with a pill, therefore, is an understatement.
When we’re really talking about HSDD
It’s not enough to say “I want less”. As he clarifies Monica Calcagnito talk about hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) there must be significant personal suffering and impact on quality of life. This is a clinical diagnosis, not a simple phase or momentary perception.
Effectiveness: Moderate results
Efficacy data must also be interpreted correctly. According to what he explains Monica Calcagnithe drugs show present but not revolutionary results: an increase in satisfying sexual episodes and a slightly greater perception of desire are observed, but without drastic changes. Furthermore, they don’t work for everyone.
Side effects not to be underestimated
Another fundamental aspect concerns safety. Flibanserin can cause significant drowsiness, hypotension and presents relevant interactions with alcohol. Bremelanotide can instead cause nausea, flushing and increased blood pressure.
As he remembers Monica Calcagnithese aspects must always be carefully evaluated.
When these drugs are not indicated
Patient selection is central. As he highlights Monica Calcagnithese drugs are not indicated when the problem is related to:
- pain with intercourse (e.g. vulvodynia, endometriosis)
- major relationship problems
- untreated depression or anxiety disorders
- hormonal imbalances (e.g. hypothyroidism, unmanaged menopause)
In these cases, you risk treating the wrong symptom.
The final point: there is no “magic pill”
The most important message is clear. As he concludes Monica Calcagni“female Viagra” does not exist. There are medications that can help some women in specific situations, but female sexuality remains a complex and multifactorial system.
Medication is only part of the journey – and often not even the first part to consider.
Between trivialization and medicalization
Between “it’s all in your head” and “you need a pill”, the truth lies somewhere in between. And this is precisely where clinical work comes into play: understanding the causes, avoiding simplifications and building a personalized path.
Doctor Monica Calcagni
Doctor Monica Calcagni
I’m there Doctor Monica Calcagni, Surgeon specializing in Gynecology and Obstetrics. For over twenty years I have accompanied women in every phase of their lives with competence, listening and passion. I graduated with honors fromUniversity of Rome “Tor Vergata”where I also obtained a specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology with honors and a II level Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine, as well as various specialist certifications.
In my job I deal with everything related to gynecological health: from prevention to contraception, from pregnancy to birth assistance, up to obstetric and gynecological ultrasound. I’m a non-objecting doctor and I have always been committed to protection of women’s health and rights.
Alongside my clinical activity, I also carry out my educational activity, with scientific publications and three books aimed at the general public. I have written three books: My journey alongside women (Maggioli Editore, 2025), More woman, less break (Sperling&Kupfer, 2024) e Women’s things (Sperling&Kupfer, 2022).
For info and contacts call 3397247140-3737375627
Or for online consultations you can book directly on the platform Doctorium.
