Scientists are struggling to find women willing to try out a device dubbed the "orgasmatron".
The electronic implant is said to cause instant sexual arousal at the flick of a switch.
American researchers are investigating its potential for helping women who find it impossible to achieve orgasm.
New Scientist magazine reports volunteers for the study are in short supply.
Dr Stuart Meloy, the surgeon who patented the treatment, said: "I thought people would be beating my door down to become part of the trial, but so far I am struggling to find people."
Only one woman has completed the first stage of the study. She agreed to have wires from an external device inserted into her spinal cord.
The married woman, who responded to an advert in the local media, underwent the procedure in October.
"When the device was switched on, the patient reported being almost instantly aroused," said Dr Meloy. "She described it as 'really excellent foreplay'."
The woman, who had not had an orgasm for four years, wore the device for nine days and had sex with her husband on seven occasions.
Dr Meloy said that the woman had an orgasm every time - and even experienced her first multiple orgasm.
The procedure is no riskier than an epidural, according to Dr Meloy, a pain consultant from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In the second stage of the study, a remote-controlled device resembling a pacemaker will be implanted beneath the skin.
Dr Meloy stumbled on the idea while performing routine pain-relieving surgery on a woman.
He patented the idea of using it to treat sexual dysfunction and expects a full implant to cost around £7,600.
Story filed: 19:04 Wednesday 26th November 2003
Where to Volunteer!!!!!!
