The sexual "dysfunction", known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) or inhibited sexual desire (ISD), is characterized as a lack or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity. [3] For this to be regarded as a disorder, it must cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulties which might have a negative impact on the sexual experience and the relationship rather than the frequency of sexual activity. [1] [2]

According to a vast US-study including 31.000 female participants, 40 per cent of women has occasional or no sexual desire, and 10 per cent suffer from their lack of sexual desire. [4]

Types
Dr. Klaus Michael Beier, doctor of sexual medicine and head of the Institute for Sexual Science and Medicine at the Charité in Berlin differs between two types of frigidity, namely, the loss of appetency (loss of desire) or sexual aversion (sexual phobia). Loss of appetency is a situational disinterest in sexuality (still has sexual desire, but lacks sexual desire for current partner or in burdensome stage of life), and a sexual aversion can be due to a traumatic experience or strict education. [2]

In addition, there are also physical causes which include severe chronicle medical/health problems, such as kidney failure, liver cirrhosis or hypothyroidism, psychiatric problems, such as depression, or low levels of testosterone. [1] [5]

Treatment
In case of a medical problem, the underlying cause (e.g. hypothyroidism or lack of hormones etc.) has to be treated. [5]

Psychotherapy can help to ease the psychological strain. A competent therapist can help to explore individual patterns and influences in order to find a path towards a satisfying and sensual sexuality. [1] [4]

The New-York-Times journalist and author Daniel Berger reports a naturally occurring decrease of sexual desire in women living in monogamous relationships. While men seem to find their partners sexually attractive for years, women on average lose their interest in men after 24 to 36 months. This is scientifically proven for women of various age groups. [6]