What Is Desire Disorder?

What’s a Desire Disorder? Desire disorder is a persistent lack of physical desire for sex and a lack of sexual activity, or even sexual thoughts or fantasies that causes you distress. For men, desire disorder symptoms must persist for at least 6 months.

Some people may also have sexual aversion disorder (SAD), where they feel an aversion to any sexual contact with their partner. How Do You Know if You Have a Desire Disorder? Your doctor can diagnose your desire disorder based on your symptoms. They’ll ask you if: Your desire is lower than it was in the past Your lack of desire causes you distress Your lack of libido or sexual activity causes problems in your relationship or love life It can be distressing for the person experiencing it and can also lead to difficulties in intimate relationships. Desire disorders are typically classified into two main categories: Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD): This is characterized by a persistently low level of sexual interest or desire, which can cause distress or interpersonal difficulties. It's important to note that the level of desire considered "low" is subjective and can vary from person to person. What's crucial in diagnosing HSDD is whether the individual is personally distressed by their level of desire. Sexual Aversion Disorder: This is characterized by a strong aversion or avoidance of sexual activity. People with this disorder may find the idea of sexual contact repulsive or highly anxiety-provoking. This can be a complex issue and may be related to past trauma or psychological factors. It's important to understand that sexual desire can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, relationship issues, and medical conditions. A desire disorder is typically diagnosed when these issues persist over an extended period and cause significant distress or impairment in one's life. Treatment for desire disorders may involve a combination of psychotherapy, counseling, education, and potentially medication. It's important for individuals experiencing these issues to seek help from a healthcare professional or a sex therapist, who can provide appropriate guidance and support. Remember, sexual health is a personal matter, and what's most important is the well-being and comfort of the individual. If you or someone you know is struggling with a desire disorder, seeking professional help is a positive step toward finding solutions and improving overall quality of life.