Low sexual desire among some women is a treatable condition and they should not feel embarrassed about it as it may ruin their personal life and self confidence.

According to a study, more than one-quarter of pre-menopausal and one-third of post-menopausal women are very dissatisfied with their current level of sexual desire.

Most had not discussed their low sexual desire with doctors because they felt uncomfortable or were not aware that it is a treatable condition.

"Given the prevalence of low sexual desire in women and the important role that sexual function plays in women's lives, health care providers should recognise female sexual function as an integral part of health and well-being," said Susan G. Kornstein, executive director of the Virginia Commonwealth University Institute for Women's Health in Richmond.

Low sexual desire is common among both pre- and post-menopausal women.

"It can cause personal distress, harm relationships, and have a negative impact on body image and self confidence," added lead researcher Sheryl A. Kingsberg from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland.

The study appeared in the Journal of Women's Health.