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HSDD
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Dysfunction
Understanding HSDD
As women move through midlife and beyond menopause, changes in sexual desire can occur.
However, when a lack of interest in sexual activity lasts six months or more and causes personal distress, it may be diagnosed as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Dysfunction (HSDD).⁷
HSDD is not just a normal part of ageing or lifestyle changes, it’s a recognised medical condition and the most common form of sexual dysfunction in women.⁵⁻⁸
Left untreated, it may lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and strain in intimate relationships.
Factors Affecting
Sexual Health
In midlife, sexual health and enjoyment can be influenced by a range of things.
Physical health, mood, stress, past experiences, pain conditions, and menopause symptoms can all play a part.
Relationships, partner health, lifestyle factors such as alcohol, smoking or medications, and how we feel about ourselves and our bodies also matter.
All of these can affect desire, arousal, satisfaction, and orgasm.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosing HSDD involves a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other potential causes of low sexual desire. Healthcare providers may use validated tools like the Decreased Sexual Desire Screener (DSDS) to aid in diagnosis.
Recognising HSDD
Low self esteem, sadness, worthlessness, inadequacy, frustration, disappointment, or embarrassment.
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Psychological intervention:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) and mindfulness therapy can all assist to varying degrees with HSDD.
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Medication:
Some medications can alter sexual motivation and responsiveness. Your doctor will review any medicines you are currently taking and may adjust these if necessary. Never change prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.
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Relationships:
Poor communications in a relationship can have a profound effect on sexual motivation for both partners. Counselling can often address areas of need. Solutions may be as simple as planning intimate time with your partner.
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Lifestyle changes:
Lifestyle changes may need to be made in addition to other treatment options. This includes adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, quitting smoking, and reducing your alcohol intake.
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Education:
Your doctor may provide advice or educational material and, if necessary, may refer you to a health care professional skilled in sexual health areas depending upon your needs.
HSDD Treatment Options
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Hormone therapy:
Hormones, especially body-identical hormones, alone or in combination can be very effective in managing direct menopausal symptoms directly as well as treating HSDD. In New Zealand, AndroFeme®1 is a hormone-containing skin cream registered for the management of HSDD in postmenopausal women.
Engaging with your Doctor
If you’re experiencing low sexual desire after menopause, you’re not alone — and you’re not without options. We understand that this maybe a sensitive subject. Many women feel discomfort or embarrassment which contributes to their unwillingness to seek treatment.
Members of the Australasian Menopause Society (AMS) are doctors and health professionals with a special focus on women’s health in midlife, menopause, and healthy agethe leading authority on menopause in Australia and New Zealand, AMS connects you with trusted, evidence-based care.
A menopause specialist can help you explore whether AndroFeme®1 is right for you.
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