A decrease in libido is a common occurrence for women at various points in their lives. It may be related to life changes, relationship issues, health concerns, or medication side effects. It can be distressing to feel a loss of sexuality, but there are treatments and lifestyle measures that can be taken to restore libido.
A woman's libido is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. What is considered a "normal" libido can vary from woman to woman. Some of the most common factors that can impact a woman's libido include stress, pregnancy and breastfeeding, relationship problems, health issues, medication, menopause, poor body image, and birth control.
If a woman is concerned about her low libido, she should consult with a healthcare professional. The solution may be as simple as changing a prescription medication or improving a chronic medical condition. For many women, a combination of approaches works best to improve libido. These approaches include setting aside time for date night or other bonding activities, experimenting with different techniques, planning a vacation with a significant other, communicating about sex, enlisting the help of a professional, reducing stress, starting an exercise program, addressing vaginal dryness, investigating the side effects of medication, and considering hormone therapy after menopause.
It is essential to remember that fluctuations in sex drive are a normal part of every relationship and every stage of life. Instead of focusing all attention on sex, it is beneficial to spend time nurturing oneself and the relationship. Feeling good about oneself and one's partner can lead to increased sexual desire.
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Women’s wellness: experiencing changes in sexuality around menopause. Mayo News Network. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/womens-wellness-experiencing-changes-in-sexuality-around-menopause/. [Accessed March 1, 2023]
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Shifren JL. Sexual problems in females. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/sexual-problems-in-females-beyond-the-basics [Accessed March 30, 2023]
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Let’s talk low libido. Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/lets-talk-low-libido. [Accessed March 1, 2023]
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Low sex drive in women. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554. [Accessed March 1, 2023]
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Thomas HN, Hamm M, Hess R, et al. “I want to feel like I used to feel”: a qualitative study of the causes of low libido in postmenopausal women. Menopause 2020;27(3):289-294.
