ISD may be a primary condition (where the person has never felt much sexual desire or interest), or secondary (where the person used to possess sexual desire, but no longer has interest). ISD may also be either situational to the partner (where he/she has interest in other persons, but not toward the partner), or it may be general (where he/she has a lack of sexual interest in anyone).
The most common cause of ISD seems to be relationship problems wherein one partner does not feel emotionally intimate or close to their mate. Communication problems, lack of affection that is not associated with continuing into sexual intercourse, power struggles and conflicts, and a lack of time alone together are common factors. ISD may also be associated with a very restrictive upbringing concerning sex, negative attitudes toward sex, or negative or traumatic sexual experiences. Physical illnesses, some medications and hormonal deficiencies may occasionally be implicated. Psychological conditions such as depression and excessive stress may also inhibit sexual interest.
Interviews with a specialist in sex therapy are more likely to reveal possible causes. Treatment must be individualized to the factors that may be inhibiting sexual interest. Often, there may be several such factors. Some couples will need relationship enhancement work or marital therapy prior to focusing directly on enhancing sexual activity.
Prevention and self help Reserve time for non- sexual intimacy with one's partner. Couples who reserve weekly talk time and time for a weekly date alone without the kids will maintain a closer relationship and are more likely to feel sexual interest. Detach sex and affection, so that neither person is afraid to be affectionate on a daily basis, fearing that it will be interpreted as an invitation to proceed to intercourse. Reading books or taking courses in couple communication, or reading books about massage may also encourage feelings of closeness. For some individuals, reading novels or viewing movies with romantic or sexual content may also serve to encourage sexual desire. If it is applicable on suggestion would be for the woman´s partner to give her a gentle massage with essential oils.
Aromatherapy Treatments:
Some good oils to choose from would be Jasmine, Neroli, Rose, Ylang Ylang. The other two oils which could be used are Clary Sage and Sandalwood. Rose is reputed to have affinities with female sexuality on both physical and emotional levels and is thought of as the supreme female aphrodisiac with Jasmine following a close second.
Jasmine essential oil is thought to increase confidence as well as having aphrodisiac qualities. Neroli essential oil is important if there is a lot of anxiety present and Ylang Ylang is sweet smelling and relaxing. If the person seeks counselling then aromatherapy as a supplementary treatment can be beneficial and helpful.
Sandalwood is one of the best essential oils to use in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. It is a good oil to use for oily skins and acne and is often liked by teenage boys as it has a masculine scent as well as helping to sooth itches and rashes.
Clary Sage is wonderful as it blends so well with other oils and has a wide variety of uses. Try it for high blood pressure, aches & pains, skin care, asthma and emotional tension as well as stress related conditions.
Jasmine is a lovely oil with so many wonderful uses. In the sexual area it can be very valuable as an aphrodisiac but also to relax and ease tensions in this area. It can help during periods and childbirth as well as having many other uses.
Neroli is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic and aphrodisiac as well as being a gentle sedative and is valuable for helping with problems of an emotional nature. It is reputed to be an aphrodisiac and helps with skin care. It can help with stomach spasms and diarrhoea.
Rose is often referred to as the Queen of all essential oils not least because of its price. It can help with lack of confidence, depression or grief as it has uplifting qualities and is said to produce feelings of well-being and even happiness. It has strong connections with our sexuality and can aid menstual problems.
Rose Otto is a wonderful oil which can help with skin care especially where the skin is more mature and is soothing for conditions such as asthma and hayfever.
Ylang Ylang has a calming and relaxing effect which can be used to break the circle of sexual inadequacy and is closely assoicated with this area. Useful for oily and dry skins and a tonic for the hair. It is good for over rapid heartbeat or breathing and can help with shock.