Opsolagnium is a word which is not found in an ordinary English dictionary. But, one may be well aware with the concept – it means 'waning sexual desire resulting from age'. Experts, however, say it is rarely age per se that accounts for declines in libido. Rather, sexual desire and satisfaction are largely influenced by difficult circumstances. Lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking, unhealthy eating habits, stress at work or home, are the many things that put a big crimp in desire for sex at any age.
According to data from the IMS Health, 90 million Indians suffer from erectile dysfunction, and the market for drugs targeting them is worth Rs. 90 crore. Another survey says that nearly 4% of Indian women face menopause between ages 29-34 – one of the lowest threshold in the world.
No longer can low libido be called an 'American affliction' today. High pay packages come with high stress levels. In another survey conducted here, nearly 42% people said, they had sex only once or twice a month. Low frequency of intercourse indirectly leads to problems like erectile dysfunction and even perceived cases of infertility. Modern couples are deferring their sex drives in favour of career. Sex is no longer and activity of pleasure.
But often, falling erections, failing desire, and even infertility arise from sexual myths, misconceptions and inadequate knowledge. Increasingly, gynaecologists and fertility experts are warning couples against deferred conceptions. Gynaecologist, Dr. Bibha Agarwal says, "There is a huge gap between the beginning of sexual life, and onset of reproduction life, which exposes women to a number of infections. Other problems include tubal blockage due to Tuberculosis and Endometriosis."
While Andropause (the male equivalent to menopause) is still a highly debated topic. There are also reported cases of premature menopause, premature ovarian failure, and increasing cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (an endocrinal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by regular lack of ovulation, and excessive amounts of androgenic hormones).
Indians are fast falling prey to problems of obesity and diabetes. Obesity has a 3-fold effect. It affects a person's body image and social acceptance, which then affects sex-life, which in turn affects fertility levels. About 25% of obese couples are infertile.
But such problems are all curable says doctors. "Problems didn't arrive all of a sudden. They always existed. Only that people were not aware of their sexuality, were afraid of society, and harsh realities. The numbers have definitely increased, but people now are more willing to come forth and seek treatment, "says Dr. Alka Sen.
In today's world, with careening careers, boardroom battles, and an alarming lack of sexual knowhow, double-income-no-kids, couples are ready to bring sexual problems from bedrooms to doctor's clinics. It seems sex, has finally come out in the open.
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