The epidemiology of the DSM-III psychosexual dysfunctions

The findings of 22 general population sex surveys are reanalyzed to assess the prevalence and distribution of the Psychosexual Dysfunctions as defined by DSM-III. Methodological shortcomings of the studies and problems with utilizing data originally collected for other purposes are discussed. Prevalence is estimated to be: Inhibited Female Orgasm, 5-30 + %; Inhibited Male Orgasm, 5%; Premature Ejaculation, 35%; Inhibited Sexual Excitement, 10-20% for men, indeterminate for women; Inhibited Sexual Desire, 1-15% for men, 1-35% for women. The author discusses the usefulness of epidemiological data for clinical, research, and public health undertakings.