Inhibited Sexual Desire

Alternative names:

hypoactive sexual desire; sexual apathy; sexual aversion

Definition:

Inhibited sexual desire (ISD) refers to a low level of sexual desire and interest manifested by a failure to initiate or be responsive to a partner's initiation of sexual activity. ISD may be a primary condition (where the person has never felt much sexual desire or interest), or secondary (where the person used to possess sexual desire, but no longer has interest). ISD may also be either situational to the partner (where he/she has interest in other persons, but not toward the partner), or it may be general (where he/she has a lack of sexual interest in anyone). In its extreme form, sexual aversion, the person not only lacks sexual desire, but may find sex repulsive, revolting, and distasteful. Sometimes, rather than being inhibited desire, there may be simply a discrepancy in sexual interest levels between two partners, both of whom have interest levels within the normal range. Occasionally, someone may claim that his or her partner has ISD, when in fact the individual may have hyperactive sexual desire and be very demanding sexually.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

ISD is the most frequent of all sexual dysfunctions, accounting for at least half of all admissions to sex therapy clinics. The most common cause of secondary ISD seems to be relationship problems wherein one partner does not feel emotionally intimate or close to their mate. Communication problems, lack of affection that is not associated with continuing into sexual intercourse, power struggles and conflicts, and a lack of time alone together are common factors. Primary ISD may be associated with a very restrictive upbringing concerning sex, negative attitudes toward sex, or negative or traumatic sexual experiences (such as rape, incest, or sexual abuse). Physical illnesses and some medications may also contribute to ISD, particularly when they produce fatigue, pain, or general feelings of malaise. Hormone deficiencies may occasionally be implicated. Psychological conditions such as depression and excessive stress may inhibit sexual interest. Commonly overlooked factors include insomnia or inadequate amounts of sleep, resulting in fatigue. ISD may also be associated with other sexual dysfunctions, and sometimes may be caused by them. For example, the woman who is unable to have orgasm or has pain with intercourse, or the man who has erection problems (impotence) or retarded ejaculation, may lose interest in sex because it is commonly associated with failure or is not very pleasurable. Individuals who were victims of childhood sexual abuse or rape, and persons whose marriages are lacking in emotional intimacy are particularly at risk of ISD.