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ABSTRACT
The female reproductive system includes an active and responsive genital tract that shows involuntary activity triggered by sexual arousal, genital stimulation and/or orgasm. This pelvic and perineal somatic and autonomic reflex muscle activity (“genito-pelvic reflexes”) may be an important constituent of the female sexual response. The aim of this study was to review the literature critically on female genito-pelvic reflexes. Only a small number of studies (15) have been published on this issue. More neurophysiological research is needed to search for the implications of these genito-pelvic reflexes for female sexual (dys)function.
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The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Notes on contributors
Symen K. Spoelstra
Symen K. Spoelstra (MD/PhD) is a psychiatrist and specialized in female sexual pain disorders. He followed specialized courses in sexual medicine in Groningen, Amsterdam, en Oxford, UK.
Esther R. Nijhuis
Esther R. Nijhuis (MD/PhD) is gynecologist and sexologist with a special interest in sexual disorders caused by chronic medical conditions.
Willibrord C. M. Weijmar Schultz
Willibrord C.M. Weijmar Schultz (MD/PhD) is professor emeritus of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynecology and sexology. He was editor-in-chief of the Journal of Psychosomatic Obsterics and Gynecology for more than 10 years.
Janniko R. Georgiadis
Janniko R. Georgiadis (PhD) is an anatomist and neuroscientist whose research interested revolves around the neurobiology of positive affect, the human sexual respons in particular.