Many women experience low libido at some point in life, but for some, it can be more encompassing than low or little desire to have sex. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is a type of sexual dysfunction that may be distressing, especially if you’ve previously had a greater desire for or interest in sex. Fortunately, there are treatment options available for HSDD and our intimacy experts can help you explore them with a compassionate and understanding approach. Here is what to know about HSDD, its symptoms, and its treatment options.

What is HSDD?

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder is a consistent and distressing lack of sexual desire. It is perfectly normal for sexual desire to fluctuate throughout life, and many women experience periods of lower and higher libido. Women who have HSDD, however, tend to experience an ongoing lack of sexual desire for at least six months – it may be accompanied by worrisome feelings around their lack of sexual desire and any difficulties it may be causing in intimate relationships.

HSDD Symptoms

Although it shares similar symptoms to low sexual desire, HSDD is considered distinct from low libido by intimacy experts. The symptoms can include:

Having no interest in engaging in sexual activity
Having no interest in initiating sexual activity
Rarely having sexual thoughts or fantasies
Rarely feeling satisfaction or pleasure during sexual activity

HSDD is similar to low libido, but it’s often distinguished by having no or very few sexual thoughts or fantasies. This lack of any sexual feelings or desires may cause concern in your intimate relationships, especially if it lasts for long periods.

HSDD Treatment Options

There are many different possible causes of HSDD, and your intimacy expert will perform a thorough examination of your medical history and emotional and mental well-being. For example, past sexual experiences or mood disorders can be factors in HSDD – certain medications may also be a cause. Some of the most common treatment options for HSDD include:

Hormone therapy: Estrogen or testosterone therapy may enhance sexual desire by regulating underlying hormonal deficiencies that may be contributing to HSDD.
Medications: Some medications may be recommended by your intimacy expert to increase sexual desire.
Lifestyle changes: Factors such as stress and substance use can contribute to HSDD, meaning that making appropriate changes may improve libido.
Counseling: A mental health professional may be able to help you explore the emotional and mental causes of HSDD and learn ways to manage them.

HSDD Outlook

Low libido is perfectly normal at different stages of life and as a result of different factors. It’s important to keep in mind that HSDD is manageable with the help of an intimacy expert – distress caused by HSDD is understandable and normal, but it does not need to be long-lasting. At Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics, our amazing team can provide exceptional care in a relaxing environment dedicated to helping you feel confident and comfortable in your decision to focus on your intimate health.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about HSDD and the options available to you, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our office which serves the Long Island and Queens, NY areas. Contact us by calling or filling out our online form today.

Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics

Board-Certified Physicians

Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics, located in Lake Success, NY, provides solutions for men and women’s intimate health issues. Tideline consists of dedicated physicians and staff that specialize in personalized care and support. Doctors Girardi, Handler, Powers, and Gerardi address low libido, painful sex, hormonal imbalances, rejuvenation, and aesthetic treatments. Our team is available to you for intimate healthcare needs.

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