What is HSDD? Basically, it is hypoactive sexual desire disorder. And according to a recent study found in Arch Intern Med (2008 Jul 14;168(13):1441-9) HSDD rates are quite high. HSDD is defined by a drastic lack of sexual desire. Expert diagnosis should be obtained prior to seeking treatment.

In order for a lack of sexual desire to indicate HSDD the lack must be not only noticeable, but problematic. Problematic would indicate that it is causing distress in the relationship to the individual experiencing the HSDD or the sexual partner. Care needs to be taken when diagnosing HSDD due to the general nature of the symptoms and the fact that they can indicate a number of other physical/mental conditions.

Finding the “cause” of the HSDD can be difficult. It can vary widely depending upon the situation at hand. There are different kinds of HSDD making it even more difficult because they can present with different symptoms. The condition can be caused (or escalated/exacerbated) by: inadequate testosterone levels, high prolactine, a variety of psychiatric problems, imbalances in the hormones, etc. In some cases the HSDD will be diagnosed, but cause may never be identified.

Women can find it difficult to determine if they are experiencing a normal lull in sexual desire or if they are experiencing signs of HSDD. Lack of sex drive can be normal for some women. Women having difficulty determining if they are experiencing normal lulls or HSDD should consider how long the lull has lasted. If it has been long enough to create a problem in the relationship then HSDD could be present.

The study outlined in Arch Intern Med indicated high rates of HSDD. It indicated HSDD rates are highest amongst menopausal women. It also indicated that rates are highest amongst surgically menopausal women. Women experiencing menopause naturally have noticeably lower rates of HSDD than those who are experiencing surgically induced menopause.

According to a second study published in Menopause (2006 Jan-Feb;13(1):46-56) age isn’t a big factor for HSDD. It can be found in women of all ages and reproductive stages. Those at the greatest risk for HSDD are young, surgically menopausal women.

There are no pharmaceutical treatments available for HSDD. But bioidentical hormones treatment can offer effective reduction and/or elimination of the condition and symptoms. Eric Jantze of BioCosmetic Center said, “With proper diagnosis and monitored treatment women with HSDD can see a drastic improvement in their symptoms…sometimes they can experience a total elimination of their symptoms and feel ‘normal’ again.”

Risk factors for HSDD have been going up so it is important that individuals are aware of the condition so they can seek proper diagnosis and treatment. Accessing bioidentical hormones therapy is a positive move for most women with HSDD or suspicions of HSDD. Drastic relief can be found through proper diagnosis and treatment.