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Understanding HSDD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments for Low Female Libido

Discover the physical and emotional causes behind HSDD. Find out how treatments and lifestyle changes can help improve your sex drive.

This image consists of a poster with a few images of women and there is a text on it.
This image consists of a poster with a few images of women and there is a text on it.

Understanding HSDD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments for Low Female Libido

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), now referred to as female sexual interest/arousal disorder, is a sexual dysfunction affecting women. It's marked by a persistent or recurrent low sex drive, causing distress or relationship issues. This article explores causes, symptoms, treatments, and lifestyle changes for HSDD.

HSDD can stem from physical or emotional causes. Physical factors include conditions like arthritis, diabetes, hormonal changes, fatigue, or certain medications. Emotional causes may involve anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, past sexual abuse, or trust issues with a partner.

Symptoms of HSDD include little to no sexual interest, few fantasies, disinterest in initiating sex, difficulty finding pleasure in sex, and lack of pleasurable sensations. Women typically experience these symptoms for six months or more.

Doctors diagnose HSDD through interviews, identifying underlying causes, and sometimes conducting pelvic exams or blood tests. Treatments depend on the cause and may involve adjusting medications, counseling, estrogen therapy, or lifestyle changes. Two FDA-approved medications, Flibanserin (Addyi) and Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), are available but may have side effects.

Lifestyle changes can also help improve libido. These include regular exercise, setting aside time for intimacy, sexual experimentation, avoiding substances affecting sexual desire, and stress-relieving techniques.

HSDD is a common sexual dysfunction in women, with various causes and symptoms. While treatments are available, including lifestyle changes and medications, it's crucial for women to discuss their concerns openly with healthcare providers. Early intervention can help manage HSDD and improve overall sexual well-being.

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