Clitoral hemodynamic changes after a topical application of alprostadil.

We performed duplex ultrasonography of the clitoris to assess the local hemodynamic changes after a topical application of alprostadil. Color duplex ultrasonography was used to evaluate 18 women before and after the application of 1 g of 0.2% alprostadil gel. The peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity showed a statistically significant difference after the application. All women showed labial and clitoral engorgement, 72% reported a pleasant sensation of warmth, and no systemic side effects were found. These findings are similar to the values reported after sexual stimulation, indicating that topical vasoactive drugs might help in the differential diagnosis of the vascular component of female sexual dysfunction.