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UCSF Center for Sexual Health — Peptide Therapy in San

UCSF Center for Sexual Health Treatment Categories About The UCSF Center for Sexual Health in San Francisco, CA operates as a specialized clinical program within the University of California San Francisco health system, focusing exclusively on women's sexual h

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UCSF Center for Sexual Health

Treatment Categories

About

The UCSF Center for Sexual Health in San Francisco, CA operates as a specialized clinical program within the University of California San Francisco health system, focusing exclusively on women's sexual health concerns across the lifespan. Under the medical direction of Tami Rowen, MD, MS, an obstetrician-gynecologist with fellowship training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, the center addresses sexual dysfunction through evidence-based medical interventions, hormonal therapies, and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. Dr. Rowen holds dual appointments as Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and the Department of Urology at UCSF, bringing academic rigor and research-informed protocols to clinical practice. The center treats conditions including hypoactive sexual desire disorder, arousal difficulties, orgasmic dysfunction, dyspareunia, vulvodynia, and sexual health concerns related to cancer treatment, pelvic surgery, or chronic medical conditions.

Treatment protocols at the center integrate hormonal optimization for sexual function, including localized estrogen therapy for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, testosterone therapy for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in appropriate candidates, and DHEA formulations for vulvovaginal atrophy. The clinical team evaluates patients for underlying medical contributors to sexual dysfunction including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurological conditions, and medication side effects that impair arousal or orgasmic response. For women experiencing sexual pain disorders, the center offers pelvic floor physical therapy referrals, nerve block procedures for provoked vestibulodynia, and multimodal pain management strategies. Menopause management extends beyond symptom relief to address the physiological changes affecting sexual response, including decreased genital blood flow, reduced vaginal elasticity, and altered hormone receptor sensitivity that impact desire and arousal.

Dr. Rowen's clinical approach incorporates validated assessment tools including the Female Sexual Function Index and the Female Sexual Distress Scale to quantify symptoms and track treatment response over time. Initial consultations involve detailed sexual health histories, medication reviews to identify agents that impair sexual function such as SSRIs or antihypertensives, and physical examination of pelvic floor muscle tone, vulvar tissue health, and signs of hormonal deficiency. The center collaborates with UCSF mental health providers when psychological factors including depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, or trauma history contribute to sexual dysfunction, recognizing that effective treatment often requires addressing both physiological and psychosocial components. For patients with complex presentations involving chronic pain conditions, autoimmune disease, or prior pelvic radiation, the team develops individualized treatment plans that may combine hormonal therapy, topical medications, dilator therapy, and referrals to specialized physical therapy.

Patients accessing care at the UCSF Center for Sexual Health can expect appointments that typically extend 60 minutes for initial consultations, allowing comprehensive evaluation of medical history, relationship factors, and specific sexual concerns without time constraints common in general gynecology practice. The center serves as a referral destination for complex cases that have not responded to first-line treatments in community settings, including women with lichen sclerosus affecting sexual function, persistent genital arousal disorder, or sexual dysfunction following gender-affirming surgery. Follow-up protocols involve reassessment at 8-12 week intervals to evaluate treatment efficacy, adjust hormonal dosing based on symptom response and laboratory values, and modify therapeutic approaches when initial interventions prove insufficient. The clinical team provides education on anatomy, sexual response physiology, and the neurobiological basis of desire and arousal to help patients understand their conditions and participate actively in treatment decisions.

The center's location within the UCSF Medical Center at Mount Zion in San Francisco provides access to the full spectrum of university hospital resources including advanced imaging, specialized laboratory testing, and multidisciplinary consultation when sexual dysfunction stems from or coexists with complex medical conditions. Dr. Rowen's research portfolio includes published studies on sexual function after pelvic organ prolapse surgery, the impact of mesh complications on sexual health, and hormonal interventions for postmenopausal sexual dysfunction, ensuring that clinical protocols reflect current evidence rather than outdated practice patterns. The center accepts referrals from primary care physicians, gynecologists, and urologists throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, and participates in training programs that educate the next generation of physicians in sexual medicine—a subspecialty that remains underrepresented in standard obstetrics and gynecology residency curricula.

Nearby Clinics

San Francisco, CA

Care Team

Tami Rowen· MD, MS

Our Team

Tami Rowen, MD, MS

Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecology

Dr. Tami Rowen is an obstetrician and gynecologist widely recognized for her expertise in women's sexual health.

Patient Reviews

FAQ

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Related questions

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Research context

Read sources and limitations before applying a claim.

Human Evidence Key

Extensive Multiple randomized controlled trials and/or established clinical use Moderate Multiple human studies with encouraging evidence, but not standard therapy Limited Small clinical studies or early-phase trials Very Limited / Minimal Predominantly animal, laboratory, or mechanistic research with little human evidence

Source: r2medicalclinic.com ↗

What the Research Says

While peptide therapy is still an emerging field, several high-quality studies support its potential: BPC-157: Animal studies and early human trials show accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, and gut lining. Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1): Shown to enhance immune response in viral infections and improve vaccine efficacy. CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin: Commonly used for growth hormone stimulation, these peptides have been linked to increased lean muscle mass, reduced body fat, and improved sleep quality. PT-141 (Bremelanotide): FDA-approved for female sexual dysfunction, illustrating that peptides can pass rigorous regulatory hurdles. It's important to note that while some peptides have robust clinical data and regulatory approval, others are still under investigation. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new therapy.

Source: ubiehealth.com ↗
Practical and safety references

These excerpts are educational, not personalised medical instructions.

Dosage reference

Tesamorelin Protocols, Dosages and Administration

Tesamorelin is approved by the FDA and comes in powder form that must be mixed with water before administration. Like other peptides, you need a prescription from your doctor to purchase Tesamorelin. It is administered subcutaneously under the skin in the stomach or abdomen. The best time to take this peptide is in the evening, or as advised by your doctor. Dosage may vary from person to person, but the most common dose is 2mg in a day.

Source: livvnatural.com ↗
Potential benefits

What Are the Benefits of Peptide Therapy in Tucson, AZ?

Peptide therapy offers a multitude of benefits that can significantly impact various aspects of health and wellness. Some of the key advantages include: Enhanced Muscle Growth and Recovery: Peptides like BPC-157 and CJC-1295 are known for their ability to promote muscle growth, improve strength, and accelerate recovery from injuries. Improved Skin Health: Peptides such as GHK-Cu can stimulate collagen production, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Boosted Immune Function: Thymosin Alpha-1 is a peptide that can enhance immune system function, making the body more resilient to infections and illnesses. Weight Management: Peptides like AOD-9604 can aid in fat loss and improve metabolism, assisting in weight management goals. Cognitive Enhancement: Certain peptides can improve cognitive function, memory, and focus, contributing to better mental clarity and performance. Hormonal Balance: Peptide therapy can help regulate hormone levels, addressing issues such as low libido, fatigue, and mood swings.

Source: nulevelwellnessmedspa.com ↗
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Peptide Therapy Guide Editorial Team

Editorial team for Peptide Therapy Guide.

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