Methods for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction, including treatment of associated postmenopausal symptoms, are provided using very low doses of 17β-[(1-methyl-1,4-dihydro-3-pyridinyl)carbonyloxy]estra-1,3,5(10)-trien-3-ol, also known as E2-CDS, which do not elevate average steady-state peripheral estradiol levels to above about 50-60 pg/ml. Also, methods for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction are provided using very low doses of E2-CDS which do not substantially elevate average peripheral estradiol levels to above average normal peripheral levels in the male mammal.