Diagnostic Features
The essential feature of Sexual Aversion Disorder is the aversion to and active avoidance of genital sexual contact with a sexual partner (Criterion A). The disturbance must cause marked distress or interpersonal difficulty (Criterion B). The dysfunction is not better accounted for by another Axis I disorder (except another Sexual Dysfunction) (Criterion C). The individual reports anxiety, fear, or disgust when confronted by a sexual opportunity with a partner. The aversion to genital contact may be focused on a particular aspect of sexual experience (e.g., genital secretions, vaginal penetration). Some individuals experience generalized revulsion to all sexual stimuli, including kissing and touching. The intensity of the individual’s reaction when exposed to the aversive stimulus may range from moderate anxiety and lack of pleasure to extreme psychological distress.
Subtypes
Subtypes are provided to indicate onset (Lifelong versus Acquired), context (Generalized versus Situational), and etiological factors (Due to Psychological Factors, Due to Combined Factors) for Sexual Aversion Disorder.
Associated Features and Disorders
When confronted with a sexual situation, some individuals with severe Sexual Aversion Disorder may experience Panic Attacks with extreme anxiety, feelings of terror, faintness, nausea, palpitations, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. There may be markedly impaired interpersonal relations (e.g., marital dissatisfaction). Individuals may avoid sexual situations or potential sexual partners by covert strategies (e.g., going to sleep early, traveling, neglecting personal appearance, using substances, and being overinvolved in work, social, or family activities).
Differential Diagnosis
Sexual Aversion Disorder may also occur in association with other Sexual Dysfunctions (e.g., Dyspareunia). If so, both should be noted. An additional diagnosis of Sexual Aversion Disorder is usually not made if the sexual aversion is better accounted for by another Axis I disorder (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder). The additional diagnosis may be made when the aversion predates the Axis I disorder or is a focus of independent clinical attention. Although sexual aversion may technically meet the criteria for Specific Phobia, this additional diagnosis is not given. Occasional sexual aversion that is not persistent or recurrent or is not accompanied by marked distress or interpersonal difficulty is not considered to be a Sexual Aversion Disorder.
Diagnostic criteria for 302.79 Sexual Aversion Disorder
A. Persistent or recurrent extreme aversion to, and avoidance of, all (or almost all) genital sexual contact with a sexual partner.
B. The disturbance causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty.
C. The sexual dysfunction is not better accounted for by another Axis I disorder (except another Sexual Dysfunction).
Specify type:
Lifelong Type
Acquired Type
Specify type:
Situational Type
Generalized Type
Specify:
Due to Psychological Factors
Due to Combined Factors
