Frigidity (sexual reluctance)
By the older term “frigidity”, a persistently reduced or absent sexual desire is meant (today one speaks more neutrally of reduced libido or a sexual dysfunction). It can concern women as men. At the Kyborg Institute we consider the theme sensitively and on a soul-related level.
Many possible causes – no flaw
Sexual reluctance seldom has only one reason. Hormonal and physical factors, medication, stress and exhaustion, earlier injuries, shame from upbringing or the relationship situation can play a role. Important to us: this is no personal flaw and no blame – neither of the one nor of the other person.
Our reading
In our reading, desire needs security, attention and self-acceptance – it cannot be forced, but it can grow again when the inner and outer frame is right. To free oneself from the pressure of outdated patterns of upbringing and to affirm one’s own body and one’s own feelings can help with this.
What does that mean in practice?
- With persistent distress, (sex-)therapeutic counselling can help – also together as a couple.
- Look at stress, exhaustion and relationship themes.
- Accept yourself, your own body and your own needs.
Related: sexuality & reproduction · impotence.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'frigidity' mean?
The older term means a persistently reduced or absent sexual desire. The causes are manifold – hormonal, physical, soul-related, through stress, earlier injuries or the relationship situation.
How does the Kyborg Institute see sexual reluctance?
We understand desire as something that needs security, attention and self-acceptance. Where it is lacking, we see in it no flaw and no blame, but a signal.
Change history · last updated on
- — Notes shortened, text tidied.
- — Address of this entry localised: it now carries the English term instead of the German one. The old address redirects.
- — First English version.
Sources
- D. Harald Alke: Gesundheitslexikon (Health Encyclopedia). A detailed account of health-relevant topics and therapeutic methods; bundled, overlapping experiences from around 30 years of life counselling with clients. Kyborg Institute.
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