Cialis for Women: Can Women Take Tadalafil?

Does Cialis (tadalafil) work for women?

The drug known as Cialis is used to treat men who suffer from symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED). This well-known brand name medication, also sold as tadalafil, a generic, non-branded version, is designed to help men achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sex. 

Due to the effectiveness and positive reviews of tadalafil, many women have wondered if taking Cialis might increase their libido. 

Tadalafil tablets work by increasing blood flow to the penis for men that struggle with getting and keeping an erection, despite their desire to perform sexually. Contrary to popular belief, the drug has no effect on the level of a man’s sexual desire. Hence, women who take Cialis will not have an improved sex drive, making the treatment ineffective.

Whilst the medication is commonly dispensed for men in the UK, Cialis and tadalafil are not currently licensed for women. This article will examine why women should not take ED medication like Cialis, and detail how this drug works for men by enabling an erection hard enough for sex.

What is Cialis (tadalafil)?

There are a few major players in the ED space. You may be familiar with brand names like Viagra and Levitra that, much like tadalafil, work by increasing blood flow to the penis.

Cialis belongs to the same class of drugs, known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. 

Cialis is available in four different strengths; 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg. The lower strengths of 2.5mg and 5mg are known as ‘Cialis Daily’ and have a continuous effect. They are recommended for individuals who have more than 2 sexual encounters per week. The 10mg and 20mg strengths should be taken around half an hour before sex, and can last up to 36 hours, earning them the nickname ‘the weekend pill.’

Many men star by taking Cialis 10mg in order to determine its effectiveness. As outlined by UK national guidelines, if you’re a man beginning treatment, you should try taking ED tablets on 8 separate occasions, before increasing the dose or trying another medication. It can take time for you to get used to the idea of using a tablet to help with ED. 

As previously mentioned, these guidelines are not intended for women, as the drug doesn’t increase the state of arousal necessary to facilitate stimulation of the sexual organs.

How does Cialis work?

PDE5 is a chemical which is present in the penis. It helps the penis to become flaccid after an erection. However, excess levels of PDE5 can also make it difficult to get an erection.

Cialis blocks the action of PDE5, which helps blood vessels to relax.

By ‘relaxing’ the blood vessels, they essentially widen, which in turn enables more blood to flow freely to the penis, causing an erection.

Does Cialis work for women?

Many women have wondered how taking an ED medication like tadalafil would affect them. During sexual stimulation, a woman’s clitoris engorges with blood. So, in theory, tadalafil should work for women.

So, here’s why tadalafil does not work for women.

Tadalafil encourages blood flow to the penis, by blocking the action of PDE5. In women, PDE5 does not prevent blood flow to the genitals, to the same extent as it does in men. This means that it is unlikely to have much of an effect on women.  

Furthermore, women do not rely on blood flow as much as men, in order to have sex. During sexual excitement, the vagina secretes fluid, lubricating the area. In order to achieve this state, a degree of sexual excitement is required. As tadalafil has no effect on sexual arousal, it will not help women.

Tadalafil for women is not licensed because of this. Women taking Cialis are not likely to see an improvement in sexual performance, and it can be harmful.

What will happen if a woman takes Cialis?

Taking Cialis may increase blood flow to the clitoris, facilitating a sexual response mechanism. This effect – combined with the clitoris becoming engorged with blood – has a pronounced visual effect and may result in the vagina experiencing a ‘pounding’ or ‘tingling’ sensation.

In order for the vagina to lubricate and contract, sexual stimulation is required. As noted, the effects of tadalafil have nothing to do with impacting a woman’s sexual desire, making the increased blood flow an effect unattributed to the body’s natural sexual response.

As Cialis is a vasodilator, women can expect to experience a drop in blood pressure, and other side effects associated with tadalafil, such as dizziness, headache, facial flushing, and an upset stomach.

If you’re a woman who is considering the benefits of a drug like Cialis in order to help increase your sex drive, consult your doctor to determine the best course of action before taking any ED medication. Tadalafil for women is not licensed and can be harmful to your health.

Is there a female version of Cialis or Viagra?

In the same way that female Cialis is not licensed for use, Viagra for women is not licensed either. Women are not likely to experience problems having intercourse, as a result of reduced blood flow. Most of the issues that arise with women having sex, is caused by female sexual dysfunction (FSD). The main causes of FSD are lack of sexual arousal, or painful sex. Cialis will not help to treat FSD. Treatments for FSD can include psychotherapy, pelvic floor exercises, hormone therapy and lifestyle changes.

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.

FAQ:

Why has my libido dropped?

There are many reasons a woman may notice their interest in sex diminishing. A major depressive disorder, the onset of menopause, or chronic stress can all play a role in the emergence of female sexual dysfunction symptoms. Other causes may include:

• Sleep deprivation
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes

In the event that you notice a significant decrease in arousal, consult your doctor or healthcare provider in order to determine the best course of action. FSD is a treatable condition and can be overcome by following the right protocol.

Is low sex drive permanent?

No, you do not have to live with a low sex drive forever. Whilst age and certain other factors can contribute to diminished feelings of arousal, there are treatments available that are designed to help you regain a healthy sexual appetite. The first and most important step is to recognise if you’re feeling this way, and talk to a licensed medical professional for help in determining the best course of action.

How can I increase my sex drive naturally?

When it comes to increasing your libido naturally, nothing beats the combination of rest, exercise, and a healthy diet. Deploying a routine that includes plenty of sleep, lots of physical activity and good food can work wonders for naturally boosting sex hormones, and offsetting the stress that can trigger a decrease in sex drive. You should be wary of companies which sell products such as “natural Viagra” or libido enhancers, as these are not proven to work, and may contain harmful substances. For more tips on how to boost your sexual desire, and remember that communicating your feelings to a healthcare provider – or even your partner – can go a long ways towards recovering your libido.

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.