The characteristics of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in Korean women who visited a community-based gynaecology hospital for sexual dysfunction

Abstract

This cross-sectional study analysed the characteristics of HSDD (hypoactive sexual desire disorder) in Korean women. Two hundred and seventeen women seen for sexual dysfunction were assessed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Revised (DMS IV-TR) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). A diagnosis of HSDD was more common in women in their 40 s (56%), who had previously undergone surgery for a feeling of ‘wide vagina’. Both too much or too little sexual activity caused HSDD. Longer physical contact and sexual foreplay duration lessened the prevalence of HSDD. We concluded that special attention should be paid to women in their 40 s, particularly those with a history of vaginal surgery as they are at risk of HSDD. Potential treatment options should include couple counselling about the optimal frequency and duration of sexual activity, as well as treatment specific to the disorders identified by the FSFI.

Impact statement

• What is already known on this subject: Many socio-medical factors affect the prevalence of HSDD (Hypoactive sexual desire disorder). Age, cultural factors, relationship status, education, religion, employment, mental distress, depression, medications, menopausal status, multiple psychiatric disorders and a variety of medical conditions impact on sexual function.

• What do the results of this study add: A history of wide vaginal surgery (perineoplasty, vaginal rogation rejuvenation, or anterior vaginal introitoplasty) affects the incidence of HSDD (and have not been evaluated before). Both too much or too little sexual activity were found to have caused HSDD. A longer physical contact and duration of sexual foreplay lessened the prevalence of HSDD.

• What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research: We concluded that special attention should be paid to women in their 40 s; particularly those with a history of wide vaginal surgery, as they are at risk of HSDD. Potential treatment options should include couple counselling about the optimal frequency and duration of sexual activity, as well as treatment specific to the disorders identified by the FSFI.

Keywords:

• Hypoactive sexual desire disorder
• Korean women
• women’s sexuality
• desire

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.