Is There Such a Thing as “Normal” Desire? DSM-5 and Beyond
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published on May
2013, brought with it considerable changes in the field
of the Female Sexual Dysfunction definitions, particularly
the elimination of the desire disorders as such.
This change was based on Rosemary Basson circular
model of sexual desire, and integrated hypoactive sexual
desire disorder (HSDD) and female sexual arousal
disorder (FSAD) into one single diagnosis: female sexual
interest and arousal disorder (FSIAD).
In the last couple of years, the International Society
for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) has
challenged the DSM-5 theoretical framework, affirming
that HSDD should be maintained as an entity separate
from FSAD. The latest ICD 11 corresponds with the
ISSWSH nomenclature.
In this presentation we will depict the different sides
of this debate and discuss: Is there such a thing as
“normal” desire?
Keywords: Female Sexual Desire, Women’s sexual
health, Sexual desire problems
Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement: None
