Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD) - How To Administer It?

As surprising as it may sound, this disorder is rather common than a rare phenomenon. A lot of men bring their wives/partners to the sexologist, claiming their partners”have no interest in sex”.

The patient gets evaluated with lots of tests and some times are given Injections of testosterone by some dubious practitioners. The partner may have to consume a whole list of drugs, undergo surgeries or suffer domestic violence or face divorce threats/verdict. All this because people are not aware of what we call, Sexual Aversion Disorder. There may not be anything wrong physically or with the hormones with these patients.

What is SAD?

SAD, also known as Sexual Aversion Desire is most commonly described as a feeling of disgust, fear and phobia, revolt, revulsion and lack of genuine interest in sex. Despite what people name it, Sexual Aversion Disorder is not just a common and mood-related downfall in one's sexual desire, rather, it is more about active avoidance and a strong feeling of dislike towards any sexual activity which would otherwise be termed normal for other people.

Other sexual disorders differ from the Sexual Aversion Disorder in a tiny little fact and that is, SAD does not only include a lack of interest, it also comprises of the feeling of disgust and fear (just like a phobia) for any type of sexual activity.

Different patients have different types of aversions such as:

Some might not like to see the genitals of their partner

Some do not like the smell of the ejaculations or genital organs

Some do not like kissing, hugging, cuddling, or mutual masturbation

? And for some, the fear grows to a complete hatred for intercourse as a whole

A person may become so obsessed with the fear/phobia for sexual activity, that he/she may take every gesture from the partner as demand for sex and may avoid all intimacy or communication between the partners. In the long term, aversion for sex might jeopardize their relationship, the bonding and finally the marriage itself.

What causes the SAD and are there any noticeable symptoms included?

Clearly, Sexual Aversion Disorder is a psychological disorder with a few physiological causes that might be an underlying reason. But the greatest factor which becomes the reason for a person developing an aversion such as this is due to some traumatic past experiences or perhaps issues with the partner itself.

If the cause is interpersonal with the partner, it is likely that the patient is capable of sexual fantasies and imagery. This person avoidance may be situational.

In the case of an abusive past, such as physical violence, rape, molestation even verbal abuse or bad parenting, the patient will need extensive therapy as well as the emotional support of the partner.

However, it is important to remember that no person can be branded as suffering from SAD unless he/she has been evaluated or any other causes have been ruled by an expert sexologist.

Also, SAD can be treated very well, with extensive psychotherapy, marital counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy. The results are very promising. The couple should really be motivated to work on their issues.