What is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder?

What is hypoactive sexual desire disorder?

It’s normal for people to have different levels of sexual desire throughout their life. But if your libido (sex drive) has been low for a while, and it is upsetting you or affecting your relationship with your partner, you may have hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSSD).

HSSD is a clinical sexual disorder that causes symptoms like lack of sexual fantasies, reduced or no initiation of sexual activity, and absent or reduced sexual excitement or pleasure during sexual activity. These symptoms must be ongoing for at least 6 months to be considered HSSD.

Common causes of HSSD include menopause, hormone imbalances, and anxiety. Treatments vary depending on the cause and may include supplements, medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Symptoms

• Absence or decreased interest in initiating or engaging in sexual activity
• Absence or decreased spontaneous desire
• Decreased response to sexual stimulation or cues
• Reduced or loss of ability to stay interested in sexual activity
• Avoiding situations that could lead to sexual activity
• Upset by the thought of having sex
• Experiencing high personal stress due to lack of sexual desire

Is there a quiz for HSDD?

While there isn’t a standardized quiz to help diagnose HSDD, there are many online tools that can help you diagnose and manage your symptoms.

• Blueheart (app.blueheart.io) is a sex therapy app that asks questions about yourself and your sex life.
• A HSDD quiz is on the flibanserin (Addyi) website (addyi.com). Flibanserin is an FDA-approved medication for HSDD in premenopausal women.
• Sprout Pharmaceuticals’ website, screamforicecreamagain.com, includes a sexual desire quiz.
• A HSDD quiz is on the bremelanotide (Vyleesi) website (vyleesi.com). Bremelanotide is an FDA-approved medication for HSDD in premenopausal women.

Treatment Options for HSDD

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is a treatable condition with various management approaches available. Treatment typically involves a combination of medical interventions, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications. For premenopausal women, the FDA has approved two medications: flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi). Flibanserin is a daily oral medication that works on brain chemicals related to sexual desire, while bremelanotide is an injectable drug used as needed. Some healthcare providers may prescribe off-label treatments such as testosterone therapy, particularly for postmenopausal women. Psychological interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, have shown effectiveness in addressing the emotional and relational aspects of HSDD. Additionally, sex therapy or couples counseling can help improve communication and intimacy between partners. Lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, and improving sleep quality, may also contribute to managing HSDD symptoms. It's important for individuals experiencing HSDD to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and concerns.

Causes

HSDD can be caused by a combination of factors, which may be biologic, psychological, and physical. Examples include:

Biologic

• An imbalance in brain chemical levels (neurotransmitters)
• Low levels of sex hormones like testosterone, estrogen, or thyroid hormone
• Menopause
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Psychological issues

• Mental health problems like poor body image, stress, anxiety, and depression
• Being told negative messages about sex, like that sex is shameful or sinful
• Sexual abuse or trauma or a bad sexual experience

Physical

• Chronic diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, stroke, and multiple sclerosis
• Injuries, like a trauma during childbirth
• Medication side effects. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, pain medication, blood pressure medication, and chemotherapy can all decrease sexual desire.
• Aging

Preventative tips

• Do Kegel or pelvic floor exercises, which help improve blood flow, sensation, and sexual function to the genital area.
• Get regular exercise to boost your mood, energy, and self-image. Try to be active most days of the week.
• Practice relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga, to decrease stress.
• Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can increase stress and make you too tired for sex.
• Work on your relationship and communication skills with your partner. If you think you may need professional help to do this, consider couples counseling.
• Try new sexual experiences—by yourself and with your partner.
• Treat any chronic conditions you may have by taking your prescribed medication and following your doctor’s advice.