Feeling like your libido has hit an all-time low? Or maybe you’re just not feeling turned on during sex anymore? We are here to let you know that it might be more than just simply not being in the mood. Let’s dive into what’s going on—like the difference between desire disorder and arousal disorder, why it could happen, and how to get your groove back.
Are you not feeling in the mood lately? Or has it been forever since you even thought about sex? Believe it or not, your level of sexual desire and sexual arousal are vital aspects of your overall health. It’s super common to have dips in interest in sex. Sometimes, you might attribute your lack of desire to relationship issues, stress, or sheer exhaustion. However, if you find that your diminished interest has persisted for months or if you are having difficulty getting or staying aroused, you may be experiencing a condition known as Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD).
What is FSIAD, anyway?
FSIAD is a medical term that covers two types of sexual dysfunction: desire disorder and arousal disorder. They’re closely related, but not exactly the same, and each can affect people differently. The good news? There’s usually a way to address it!
What Is Desire Disorder?
Ever feel like your libido has just packed up and left? Desire disorder, which is often referred to as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), happens when you have a persistent lack of interest in sex—and it’s causing you distress. Fun fact: according to The Society for Women’s Health Research, about1 in 10 women experience HSDD, making it one of the most common female sexual health concerns, so you’re far from alone. If you’re dealing with desire disorder, you might feel upset about not thinking about or wanting sex. It can leave you feeling inadequate, frustrated, or even guilty, which is just not okay.
What Is Arousal Disorder?
Okay, so let’s say you want to have sex, but your body or mind are not cooperating. That’s arousal disorder, also known as female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). In men, it is referred toas erectile dysfunction (ED). Normally, when you’re aroused, your body does its thing—like vaginal lubrication or that tingly feeling in your genitals. With arousal disorder, that physical response just doesn’t happen, even when the desire is there. You might have trouble getting or staying physically aroused, or maybe things just feel uncomfortable or off during sex. Remember, while all this is frustrating, it’s something you can work on!
What’s the Difference Between Desire and Arousal Disorder?
The primary difference lies in the stage of the sexual response cycle that is affected. Desire disorder impacts the initial stage(your motivation)—it’s as if the thought of sex doesn’t even occur to you. Arousal disorder, on the other hand, occurs when your body doesn’t respond as you would like, even when you feel in the mood. Desire and arousal issues can both cause and result from one another, but they affect different stages of the sexual response cycle.
What causes Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder?
There isn't just one answer to why desire and arousal disorders occur, but several factors may be involved:
- Medical conditions like stress, breast cancer, diabetes, urinary incontinence, thyroid issues, hormonal fluctuations, and multiple sclerosis.
- In cases of arousal disorder, issues with blood flow and nerve damage may also play a role.
- An imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are chemicals that can either trigger or inhibit sexual desire and excitement.
- Psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
- Side effects from medications prescribed for depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and certain pain relievers.
- Behavioral factors, including alcohol consumption and smoking.
- Relationship struggles due to conflict or trust issues.
- Poor sleep quality.
Treatment Options
The first step is talking to your provider. They can help you determine what is happening and what might work best for you. In addition to managing any underlying medical conditions, treatment options for desire and sexual arousal disorders can include:
- Counseling or sex therapy to tackle any emotional or relationship issues.
- Medical treatments like hormonal therapy or medications help your body respond better.
- Lifestyle changes such as prioritizing sleep, exercising, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and managing stress.
Maureen Whelihan, M.D., from Elite GYN Care of the Palm Beaches explains, “A thorough medical history helps guide our treatment approach. Are sleep issues a factor? Could undiagnosed anxiety or depression be contributing? Sometimes, changes in libido are simply part of a relationship’s natural ebb and flow. But no one should have to navigate this alone. There are FDA-approved treatments, and other options, that your doctor can discuss with you.”
Knowing the difference between desire and arousal disorders can help you talk openly with your doctor about what you’re experiencing. Remember, everyone’s experience is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, reaching out to your provider is a great first step to getting answers and feeling more like yourself again. Not sure where to start? Find a provider who fits your needs.
SOURCE:
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD): American Sexual Health Association, N.D.
Sexual Arousal Disorder: American Sexual Health Association, N.D.
Female Sexual Dysfunction: Mayo Clinic, October 2024
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