The prevalence of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in surgically menopausal women: an epidemiological study of women in four European Countries

Introduction. Insufficient documentation exists regarding the prevalence of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in surgically menopausal (SM) women in European countries. Women who have undergone hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy experience a loss of ovarian hormones. Inclusion of these women in an epidemiological study provided the opportunity to study biological and cultural impacts on sexual function.
Aim. To compare the prevalence of HSDD among SM women in France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, as well as the relationship between low sexual desire and sexual activity or behavior and sexual or partner relationship satisfaction.
Conclusions. A similar percentage of SM women with low sexual desire were found across countries suggesting the role of biological factors (i.e., losing ovarian hormones) in determining sexual desire. Differences in the percentage of SM women with HSDD suggest a role for cultural factors in determining how low sexual desire is perceived.