Do Sexual Enhancement Creams Actually Work?

Putting sexual enhancement creams to the test. Now that's a research project. But before women initiate their own clinical trials, understanding the details about these products may be helpful.

Marketers of the various products claim that applying the cream or gel to the clitoral region before engaging in sexual activity will increase arousal and sensation, making it easier to achieve orgasm.

So what's the trick? Ingredients. While each formulation differs, the most common ingredient is L-arginine, an amino acid responsible for dilating blood vessels. Essentially, by increasing blood flow to this area, marketers claim that all aspects of sex are potentially enhanced -- from lubrication to orgasm. The promise of a warming or tingling sensation may come from this and other ingredients such as menthol or peppermint. Some other ingredient listings include everything from hemp seed oil to licorice extract to ginseng -- all meant to increase blood flow or trigger natural hormone reactions.

It is important to realize, however, that there is little to no published research on the effectiveness and safety of the so-called sexual enhancement creams. Unless they are used excessively, however, risks are presumed to be minimal. The potential side effects of these products seem to be limited to skin irritation (for the woman using the product and anyone else coming into contact with the cream). Women should let their healthcare professionals know if these products are the cause of irritation to avoid a misdiagnosis of infection. An allergy to any of the ingredients is also possible.

Some brands readily available through online drugstores include Emerita Response Cream, O'My Clitoral Stimulating Gel, Femore Intimacy Enhancement Cream and Dream Cream. These products range in price from $24 to $60 for 1 ounce.

Source: HealthNewsDigest.com