Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

Abstract

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) is diagnosed when an individual indicates persistent or recurrent blunted levels of sexual desire and/or a lack of sexual fantasies that cause marked distress and/or interpersonal difficulties [1]. This diagnosis is intended to include only individuals who experience dissatisfaction with their low levels of sexual desire. Women with this condition will often report that they “want to want” more sex, while women with low levels of sexual desire that do not meet HSDD criteria will indicate no bother or concerns with the frequency of their sexual desire. The subjective experience of distress caused by low desire is a critical component of the diagnosis of HSDD because many individuals are not alarmed by low levels of sexual desire. Indeed, an epidemiological study conducted in Australia demonstrated that 32% of women who are 20–70 years old report low sexual desire, but only 16% report distress caused by the low sexual desire [2].