Most of the creams marketed to increase sexual pleasure for women contain the active ingredient l-arginine. This is an amino acid found in dairy products that increases blood flow to the genital area — specifically the clitoris. Since the clitoris is a little bundle of erectile tissue, more blood supply often translates into greater erection and increased sensation. Viacreme, Go- girl , Sensu is the brand name of some of the orgasm enhancing cream for women that also contains menthol, which is supposed to aid in the absorption of l-arginine. When rubbed on to the clitoris, menthol also provides a tingle to the skin.

These orgasm-enhancing creams are available without a prescription on the Internet and at boutiques that sell sex toys and other pleasure related products. They typically cost between R100.00 - R150-00 for a small vial containing three or four applications. The active ingredients in such creams have been widely used in other over-the-counter products and in higher doses (l-arginine is often sold as a dietary supplement, and menthol is commonly used in cough drops). No serious side effects have been reported from their use; a small number of women have a "burning" sensation from the menthol, but some women describe it as intensifying the sensation.

Some women get significant pleasure from these creams, while others experience less of a sensation-boosting effect, or no effect at all. Still others use them a few times before feeling any difference, cultivating the sensations. Another perspective, of course, is to value whatever pleasure one can feel. Orgasm is only part of the pleasure experience