Frigidity

Alternative names:

sexual disinterest (females)

Definition:

Women who are indifferent or hostile to sexual intercourse, who have no response to sexual advances or stimulation, or who are unable to have an orgasm during sexual intercourse.

Considerations:

Sexual dysfunction is usually a psychological problem.

Common causes:

• unskilled or uncaring partner
• communication problems with partner
• anxiety, depression, fear of pregnancy, and feelings of guilt and shame about sex often play a part in frigidity
• fear of pain, infection, or being pregnant
• a gynecological disease
• having deep-seated psychological problems

Note: There may be other causes of frigidity. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for frigidity, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial