Do I Have Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder?

Do you experience absent/reduced interest in sexual activity?

Do you experience absent/reduced sexual/erotic thoughts or fantasies?

Do you experience no or reduced initiation of sexual activity and are you typically unreceptive to a partner’s attempts to initiate?

Do you experience absent/reduced sexual excitement/pleasure during sexual activity in almost all or all sexual encounters?

Do you experience absent/reduced sexual interest/arousal in response to any internal or external sexual/erotic cues (e.g., written, verbal, visual)?

Do you experience absent/reduced genital or nongenital sensations during sexual activity in almost all or all sexual encounters?

Have the symptoms persisted for a minimum duration of approximately 6 months?

Do the symptoms cause clinically significant distress?

Can you confirm that the sexual dysfunction is not better explained by a nonsexual mental disorder or as a consequence of severe relationship distress (e.g., partner violence) or other significant stressors and is not attributable to the effects of a substance/medication or another medical condition?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have female sexual interest/arousal disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have female sexual interest/arousal disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. Female sexual interest/arousal disorder occurs when your body does not respond to sexual stimulation. Around 40% of women experience some type of sexual dysfunction. If you are worried about your symptoms or you would like to receive advice, it may be helpful to plan a visit to your doctor. The disorder can be very frustrating, but with treatment the symptoms will improve.

While it is unlikely that you have female sexual interest/arousal disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. The cause of the disorder can be physical, such as reduced blood flow to the vagina and clitoris. However, the disorder can also have psychological causes, such as stress, low self-esteem, trauma and depression. It is essential to talk with your doctor about your symptoms. It may be uncomfortable, but it is important to understand where your symptoms come from and how you can improve them. It may be necessary to rule out other health issues that could be causing your symptoms. You can also get in touch with a sex therapist if that makes you feel more comfortable.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have female sexual interest/arousal disorder. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. Your doctor will start with asking you questions about your sexual and mental health. Additionally, your doctor may want to conduct a pelvic exam to rule out other causes of the symptoms. If the doctor concludes that your symptoms are not caused by physical issues, your doctor may refer you to a sexual health professional. This professional can help you understand the psychological issues behind the disorder, and make a suitable treatment plan for you. Treatment may include medication and/or therapy.