Summary about Disease
Inhibited Sexual Desire (also known as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder or HSDD) is characterized by a persistent or recurrent deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity. This lack of desire causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty. It's important to distinguish it from a temporary lack of interest due to situational factors like stress or relationship issues.
Symptoms
Lack of sexual thoughts or fantasies
Reduced or absent desire for sexual activity
Decreased or absent response to sexual cues or initiation by a partner
Distress or interpersonal difficulty related to the lack of sexual desire
Causes
Physical: Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone, estrogen changes), chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), medications (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure medications), substance abuse.
Psychological: Depression, anxiety, stress, past sexual trauma, body image issues, low self-esteem.
Relationship: Relationship problems, communication difficulties, lack of emotional intimacy, unresolved conflicts.
Social/Cultural: Cultural or religious beliefs about sexuality.
Medicine Used
Flibanserin (Addyi): Approved for premenopausal women with HSDD. It's thought to affect neurotransmitters in the brain to increase sexual desire.
Bremelanotide (Vyleesi): Another medication for premenopausal women with HSDD, administered via injection. It activates melanocortin receptors in the brain.
Testosterone Therapy: May be used for men with low testosterone levels contributing to low libido.
Estrogen Therapy: May be used for women experiencing estrogen deficiency, often associated with menopause.
Addressing Underlying Conditions: Medications to manage depression, anxiety, or other underlying medical conditions.
Is Communicable
No, Inhibited Sexual Desire is not communicable. It's not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.
Precautions
Open Communication: Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and needs.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or exercise.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
Medical Evaluation: Consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Therapy: Consider individual or couples therapy to address psychological or relationship issues.
Medication Review: Review medications with your doctor to see if any are contributing to low desire.
How long does an outbreak last?
Inhibited Sexual Desire is not an "outbreak." It is a persistent or recurrent condition. The duration can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause. It can be temporary (related to a specific stressor) or chronic. Without addressing the underlying cause(s), the condition can persist for months or years.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical History: The doctor will ask about your sexual history, relationship status, medications, and medical conditions.
Physical Exam: To rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Psychological Evaluation: Assessment of mood, stress levels, and psychological factors.
Hormone Testing: Blood tests to check hormone levels (testosterone, estrogen, thyroid hormones).
Diagnostic Criteria: Meeting the criteria for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) based on the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition). This includes persistent lack of sexual desire causing distress.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of symptoms can vary widely:
Sudden Onset: Can occur abruptly, often triggered by a specific event (e.g., trauma, medication change).
Gradual Onset: Develops slowly over time, possibly linked to relationship issues, chronic stress, or hormonal changes.
Fluctuating: Symptoms may come and go depending on circumstances (e.g., more desire during vacation, less during stressful work periods).
Persistent: Symptoms are consistently present with little or no variation.
Important Considerations
Normal Variations: It's crucial to understand that sexual desire naturally fluctuates throughout life and between individuals.
Relationship Impact: Low sexual desire can significantly impact relationships.
Underlying Causes: Identifying and addressing the root cause is essential for effective management.
Seeking Professional Help: Don't hesitate to seek help from a doctor, therapist, or sex therapist.
Individualized Approach: Treatment should be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the individual.
Partner Involvement: When applicable, involving the partner in therapy or treatment can improve outcomes.