Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder refers to a lack of desire for sexual intimacy — from arousal to orgasm and resolution. The lack of sexual desire is prevalent, particularly in older women, but it can be troubling, impacting the quality of intimate relationships.

What is hypoactive sexual desire disorder?

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) occurs when you’re not interested in sex, meaning you have no or a low sex drive, and it bothers you.

It’s one of the most common sexual problems that people have. This could be a lifelong concern, or it can happen over time. It may always be a problem or only occur in certain situations.

People with HSDD:

Have little or no thoughts or fantasies about sex
Don’t respond to their partner’s sexual signals or suggestions
Lose desire for sex while having it
Avoid sex altogether

Symptoms of hypoactive sexual desire disorder

The following are some of the most common symptoms of HSDD:

Lack of interest in or desire for sexual intimacy of any kind, which can also include masturbation
Never, or very rarely, having sexual fantasies or thoughts
Being concerned about your lack of sexual interest

Causes and prevention

The desire for sex fluctuates throughout our lives, and it’s normal not to want sex sometimes. But if your lack of sexual desire becomes chronic or causes you distress, there may be an underlying problem. Causes of hypoactive sexual desire disorder may include:

Physical causes

These include pain, inability to reach orgasm, medical conditions such as cancer or arthritis, medications, lifestyle habits, surgery, or fatigue.

Hormonal causes

Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy/breastfeeding or menopause may cause a decrease in sexual desire.

Psychological causes

These causes include anxiety, depression, stress, body image disorders, low self-esteem, physical or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. It is challenging to prevent hypoactive sexual desire disorder, but recovery is possible for both men and women suffering from this condition. Treatment for hypoactive sexual desire disorder may include:

Sex education and counseling
Hormone therapy
Medications
Lifestyle changes (such as exercise, diet, and stress management)

How is hypoactive sexual desire disorder diagnosed?

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder is not easily diagnosed. When speaking with a patient who wants help for their lack of libido, many doctors attribute it to aging or consider the situation emotional. They may prescribe mood-altering medications – many of which are associated with the side effect of reducing sexual desire. The diagnosis process will involve the following:

A complete medical assessment to identify any health condition that can affect libido
A review of all medications to determine if lack of sexual interest may be a side effect
A discussion regarding the personal issues that can surround sexual activity, such as partner performance and history of enjoying sexual activity
A complete, in-depth evaluation of lifestyle issues that can affect libido

Low sex drive in women

Low sex drive in women is often the result of several physical, emotional, and stressful situations at home and work. The first step in treating this condition is fully understanding the factors involved. In many cases, lifestyle changes combined with medications and hormones and speaking openly with an understanding medical professional is the first step to a transformation to an improved quality of life.

Low sex drive in men

Low sex drive in men is not always a hormone imbalance but a combination of factors, including work-related stress, troubles in the home environment, or sexual identity issues. A complete discussion can reveal the physical and emotional factors contributing to the condition. Restoring a natural level of sexual desire may involve hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, or changing medications.

Why choose Pelvic Pain Doc in NYC?

Pelvic Pain Doc is a boutique concierge urology and gynecology practice established by a thought leader and expert in pelvic floor disorders in New York City, Dr. Sonia Bahlani. She is fellowship-trained in sexual and pelvic health, which many doctors are not. As the factors contributing to lack of libido, whether in men or women, go beyond the physical, her holistic approach to lifestyle changes has proven to be of great value to patients struggling with this condition. For 5-star care from a thought leader and expert, visit Dr. Sonia Bahlani's private boutique practice in NYC for concierge-style care. There is hope - contact us today.