What is HSDD?

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) is a lack of sexual desire that causes a woman personal distress. This includes a decline in or absence of sexual thoughts or fantasies, and a lack of interest in sex or being sexual. HSDD is one of the most prevalent female sexual health problems.(1)

Who does HSDD affect?

It has been reported that women are twice as likely as men to experience low sexual desire.(2) Loss of libido can occur at any time during a woman’s lifetime and is especially prevalent during menopause, both natural and surgical (having the ovaries removed).

What contributes to HSDD?

Studies show that many women experience decreased sexual desire as their testosterone levels decline through the natural aging process or via removal of the ovaries (where half of a woman’s testosterone is produced). Additional factors that may be associated with HSDD include(3) :
o Certain medications, such as some antidepressants and antihypertensives
o Psychological factors (e.g., depression, stress, anxiety)
o Relationship issues
o Certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes

How common is low desire?

It is projected that in 2005, approximately 11 million women in the U.S. will report having low desire.(4)

Are there treatments for HSDD?

There are no pharmacological treatments currently
approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for HSDD in women. Yet research is progressing, and scientists are optimistic that new developments could finally lead to the emergence of therapies to treat HSDD in women.

What’s the difference between HSDD and FSD?

HSDD is the most common form of female sexual dysfunction (FSD). FSD is a condition that encompasses all types of sexual complaints in women. In addition to HSDD, sexual arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder and sexual pain disorder are other categories of FSD. These disorders differ in nature and may require different approaches to treatment than HSDD.

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Resources
1 Laumann EO, Paik A, Rosen RC. Sexual dysfunction in the united states: prevalence and predictors. JAMA 1999;281:537-44.
2 Bid
3 Basson, R. Sexuality and sexual disorders. Clin Updates in Women’s Health Care 2003;2(2):22-58.
4 Prevalence derived from Mattson-Jack Group Pharmaceutical Consulting Service.