Sexual dysfunction is a common complication of menopause. Estrogen therapy, administered orally or vaginally, can reduce symptoms of vaginal atrophy and improve sexual function in postmenopausal women. However, estrogen therapy can be associated with serious side effects and may not be appropriate for some women. Effective alternative non-hormonal options are needed for postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare, Apiaceae) seeds have been used medicinally for centuries and reported to have estrogenic effects. The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of fennel vaginal cream on sexual function in postmenopausal women.

Postmenopausal women (n = 60, aged 45-65 years) were enrolled at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz, Iran. Included patients had confirmed menopause, lived with their husbands, were sexually active, and had sexual dysfunction (scoring < 26 on the Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]). Excluded patients had vaginal bleeding…