Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
Abstract
About a third of women experience some form of sexual disorder. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder is a particularly common one. It is linked most often to a psychological issue, although it can be medically caused. Using various journal articles and research, the causes and treatments of hypoactive sexual desire disorder are discussed, focusing on women.
Passion, sensuality, amorousness, eroticism, and lust are all terms used for sexual desire. The Webster’s dictionary describes desire as a conscious impulse toward something that promises enjoyment or satisfaction in its attainment. This desire, however, can be lacking in many otherwise healthy relationships. A serious lacking of sexual desire could mean that a person has hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) hypoactive sexual desire disorder is defined as “a persistent or recurrent deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity that causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty” (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In other words, a long lasting lack of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity that causes personal or relationship issues. This condition is seen in both men and women, although it seems to be more prevalent in women. Data from the National Health and Social Life Survey says that one third of women experience a significant lack of interest in sexual activities. This makes it one of the most common sexual and mental disorders found in women (Laumann, Paik, & Rosen, 1999). Previously known as inhibited sexual desire, hypoactive sexual desire disorder is also linked with sexual aversion and sexual apathy.
Even with the DSM-IV-TR definition, it is difficult for physicians to diagnose someone with hypoactive sexual desire disorder as there are so many factors involved. There are no set symptoms, other than
Abstract
About a third of women experience some form of sexual disorder. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder is a particularly common one. It is linked most often to a psychological issue, although it can be medically caused. Using various journal articles and research, the causes and treatments of hypoactive sexual desire disorder are discussed, focusing on women.
Passion, sensuality, amorousness, eroticism, and lust are all terms used for sexual desire. The Webster’s dictionary describes desire as a conscious impulse toward something that promises enjoyment or satisfaction in its attainment. This desire, however, can be lacking in many otherwise healthy relationships. A serious lacking of sexual desire could mean that a person has hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
According to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) hypoactive sexual desire disorder is defined as “a persistent or recurrent deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity that causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty” (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In other words, a long lasting lack of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity that causes personal or relationship issues. This condition is seen in both men and women, although it seems to be more prevalent in women. Data from the National Health and Social Life Survey says that one third of women experience a significant lack of interest in sexual activities. This makes it one of the most common sexual and mental disorders found in women (Laumann, Paik, & Rosen, 1999). Previously known as inhibited sexual desire, hypoactive sexual desire disorder is also linked with sexual aversion and sexual apathy.
Even with the DSM-IV-TR definition, it is difficult for physicians to diagnose someone with hypoactive sexual desire disorder as there are so many factors involved. There are no set symptoms, other than
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