Definitions, classification, and epidemiology of sexual dysfunction: a consensus statement from the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The creation and maintenance of accurate definitions for sexual dysfunction and sexual health of women and men represents a foundational principle of academic medicine and facilitates both clinical practice and research endeavors. Aims: To create and refine definitions relating to sexual health for women and men using an evidence-based and consensus approach. Additionally, to provide a high-level summary of key prevalence data relating to specific sexual dysfunctions. Methods: An international and multidisciplinary consensus meeting was held in 2024 of sexual medicine specialists throughout the world. Prior to the meeting, committee members relevant to this topic performed extensive background research into various sexual dysfunctions/disorders. Following the meeting, a final consensus document was created and is herein presented. Each section details prior definitions, the 2024 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine definition, and prevalence data relating to each specific definition. Main outcome measures: Evidence- and consensus-based definitions were created, including detailed discussions as to word modification and selection. Additionally, summarized prevalence data were presented. Results: A total of seven female definitions were presented, including hypoactive sexual desire disorder, female genital arousal disorder, female cognitive arousal disorder, female orgasmic disorder, female orgasm illness syndrome, sexual pain-penetration disorder, and persistent genital arousal disorder in women. For men, a total of 17 definitions were presented, including anejaculation, anhedonic/hypohedonic orgasm, anorgasmia, compulsive sexual behavior disorder, decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, dysejaculation, erectile dysfunction, genital dysmorphophobia, hard flaccid syndrome, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, micropenis, Peyronie's disease, post-orgasmic illness syndrome, premature ejaculation, restless genital syndrome, and retrograde ejaculation. Conclusions: Multiple definitions relating to women and men were created or revised using an evidence-based and consensus framework. Clinicians and researchers are encouraged to utilize these definitions to better standardize clinical care and future research studies.