Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

A psychiatric condition affecting males marked by a lack of desire for sexual activity over a prolonged period

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder is a psychiatric condition which affects males characterized by a lack of desire for sexual activity, or having low libido, over a prolonged period which causes distress for the individual.

Symptoms

  • A loss of interest in sex and sexual activities  
  • Being unresponsive to sexual stimulation, either visual or physical  
  • Feeling significantly distressed about your loss of interest in sexual activity  
  • Experiencing symptoms of a loss of desire in sex for at least six months  
  • Not experiencing spontaneous desire

Prevalence

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder affects both women and men, and people of any gender, sexuality, or age though it is more common in those over 40. However, it’s more common in women than men. Some estimates say that 1 in 10 women have HSDD, and as many as 32% of women and 15% of men may experience a loss of desire lasting several months. SAD (sexual aversion disorder) is much rarer.

Prognosis

The success of treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the underlying cause of the problem. The outlook is good for dysfunction that is related to a condition that can be treated or reversed.

When to seek help

Treatment

The most recommended method of treatment for hypoactive sexual desire disorder is using medication and psychotherapy together. Sex therapy is the most common form of psychotherapy used for treating HSDD. Couples therapy can be used as well. The treatment process will be tailored to the patient’s case by the therapist.