Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD)

Definition of Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD)

Sexual Aversion Disorder is phobic aversion to and avoidance of sexual contact with a sexual partner, which causes personal distress.
This is the most severe form of sexual desire disorder. It involves a fear of sexual intercourse and an intense desire to avoid sexual situations completely.

Common contributing factors are:

  • Sexual abuse
  • Rape
  • Incest
  • Parental sexual attitudes
  • Anxieties about a person's sexual performance
  • Unresolved sexual identity issues
  • Relationship problems
  • Fear of transmission of sexually transmitted infections
  • Fear of pregnancy

Consequences of Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD)

Women with sexual aversion disorder usually report anxiety, fear, or disgust when given the opportunity to be involved sexually. Touching and kissing may even be avoided.


When faced with the possibility of a sexual encounter, the person may experience:

  • Anxiety
  • Fearfulness
  • Panic Attacks
  • Physical symptoms, such as:
    • Rapid heart rate
    • sweating
    • dizziness
    • nausea
    • tremblingdiarrhea
    • faint

Sexual Experiences women with Sexual Aversion Disorder Avoid:

  • Getting undressed
  • Penetration
  • Oral sex
  • Anal sex
  • Masturbation
  • Kissing
  • Caressing
  • Looking at genitals
  • Semen
  • Vaginal lubrication
  • In severe cases:
    • Neglecting to take a bath
    • Avoid to attend to personal hygiene

Treatment of Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD)

Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD)In order to treat Sexual Aversion disorder sex therapy /counselling is recommended.

Sexual Health Australia is a confidential counselling service, specialised in sexual health and relationship issues. We have experienced sex therapists and relationship counsellors who offer counselling and support for women with sexual aversion disorder and their partners.

We offer individual and/or couple's counselling. Face to face counselling is offered in Sydney CBD and phone counselling is offered nationally.  When in a relationship, a co-operative couple will benefit more from treatment.

Sex therapy/counselling for Sexual Aversion Disorder may include some of the following:

  • Anxiety reduction/desensitization
  • Cognitive restructuring techniques
  • Sexual myths/psychosexual education
  • Enhancing communication
  • Promoting sexual intimacy
  • Behavioural assignments/homework exercises

If you wish to make an appointment with one of our friendly counsellors or require further information, please don't hesitate to contact us at:

For more information about our counselling sessions/appointment fees, please click here.

 

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