As the name suggests, low libido or low sex drive is a decrease in sex drive. It can be temporary or long-term and can vary according to individuals. Low libido in women is usually caused by a number of factors including physical, psychological, and societal factors. Symptoms include reduced sex drive, lack of sexual fantasies, pain during intercourse, difficulty achieving orgasm, etc. As it is a complex condition, healthcare professionals usually diagnose low libido through a variety of methods like physical assessment, hormonal assessment, psychological evaluation, relationship assessment, and a few others. Low libido in women can be treated through medical and non-medical treatments.
Introduction
Low libido or low sex drive is a condition categorized by a decrease in the frequency and/or intensity of sexual desire in comparison to a regular interest in sexual activity. In other words, it can also be defined as a recurrent or persistent lack of interest in sexual activities.
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder [HSDD] is a medical condition that causes a persistent loss of desire in sexual activity, sexual thoughts, and sexual stimulation, leading to increased stress for the individual.
Although HSDD can affect both genders, this term is commonly associated with women.
How Common is Low Libido in Women?
Based on research, it is estimated that one in three women between the ages of 30 and 59 experience what they regard as low sex drive at some point in their lives.
On the other side, the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health estimates that 10% of women suffer from hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and the statistics are believed to be higher.
What Causes Low Libido in Women?
Low sex drive in women can be caused by a variety of factors and in most cases, it is caused by a combination of physical, psychological, and interpersonal factors. Let’s look at some of the common causes of low sex drive in women:
- Hormonal Changes: As women navigate through life, they are bound to face hormonal fluctuations. Whether it’s during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause. Fluctuations in essential hormones like estrogen and testosterone can cause a shift in sex drive.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or other chronic illnesses can impact libido in women.
- Medications: Specific medications like antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives can hinder sexual desire.
- Psychological Factors: Common psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental concerns can significantly affect libido in women. Additionally, past trauma or negative experiences can also play a vital role in shaping libido.
- Relationship Issues: Unresolved issues between partners can create emotional distance leading to a decline in sexual desire.
Other causes:
- Lifestyle Factors: Indulging in unhealthy habits like poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, excessive drinking, or substance abuse can hamper overall well-being, including sexual health.
- Fatigue: Physical and emotional fatigue can contribute to low sex drive in women.
- Body Image Concerns: Having negative body image or self-esteem issues can impact one’s confidence about their sexuality.
- Cultural and Social Influences: Certain cultural and societal attitudes towards sex and sexuality can also impact one’s libido.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes associated with menopause can cause a decline in sexual desire and arousal.
As understood, several factors that contribute to low libido in women. Identifying the root cause can be complex and might require professional intervention.
Symptoms of Low Libido in Women
The symptoms of low sex drive can vary. However, some of the common ones are as follows:
- Reduced interest in sexual activities
- Lack of sexual fantasies
- Limited arousal or difficulty in getting aroused
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Difficulty achieving orgasm
- Being concerned about lack of sex drive
It’s important to mention that occasional shifts or a temporary decrease in sex drive is normal. However, if the symptoms persist over an extended period or cause emotional distress, it’s vital to seek professional guidance.
How is Low Libido Diagnosed?
As aforementioned, understanding the root cause of low libido in women can be complicated since several factors come into play. A healthcare professional may take the following steps to diagnose low sex drive:
- Medical History: First and foremost, the healthcare provider will request a detailed medical history outlining overall health, medications, reproductive history, and any pre-existing conditions. Hormonal factors like period cycles, pregnancies, and menopause may also be discussed. A medical questionnaire called FSFI can be used to assess sexual functioning of women.
- Medication Review: The healthcare professional will also evaluate the current medications as certain medications like antidepressants can have a negative impact on libido.
- Physical Examination: A physical examination may be recommended to evaluate overall health and detect any physical conditions that may contribute to low libido. This may include a pelvic exam.
- Hormonal Assessment: As hormonal fluctuations can impact libido in women, the doctor may also evaluate certain hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid levels.
- Psychological Evaluation: A healthcare provider or a mental health professional may conduct a psychological evaluation to understand any emotional stressors that can cause low libido.
- Relationship Assessment: Understanding the dynamics of the relationship is also essential to diagnose low libido in women.
- Lifestyle and Behavioral Factors: The healthcare professional will also assess lifestyle factors like diet and substance abuse to understand overall well-being and possible contributors to low libido.
- Sexual History: An open conversation about one’s sexual history, experiences, and preferences can help understand certain factors that may impact libido.
Once a thorough assessment is complete, the healthcare provider will work with the individual to create a customized treatment plan.
Treatment options
- Non-Medical Treatment for Low Libido in Women
Non-medical treatments focus on addressing the physical, psychological, and relational factors that contribute to low sex drive. Some of the non-medical approaches include:
- Communication and Education: Openly communicating with the partner and understanding each other’s desires can certainly improve the emotional connection, leading to better libido. In some cases, attending sexual education workshops may also be recommended.
- Counselling or Therapy: In cases where individuals struggle with psychological factors, doctors can recommend individual or couples counselling to address the issues. Sex therapy may also be beneficial to understand factors contributing to sexual desire.
- Stress Management: Practicing stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help alleviate stress and anxiety.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular exercise can help improve mood, body image, energy levels, and overall health, leading to better sexual desire.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Pelvic floor exercises like Kegel can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles leading to enhanced sexual experience.
Lifestyle
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a nutritious diet can help enhance overall health, including sexual well-being.
- Quality Sleep: As fatigue can lead to low sex drive, it’s imperative to get adequate and quality sleep.
- Body Image Positivity: If someone struggles with self-esteem, it’s important to focus on self-acceptance and engage in activities that boost confidence.
- Sensate Focus Exercises: Practicing sensate focus exercises with the partner can help boost intimacy.
- Prioritize Quality Time: Spending quality time with the partner outside the bedroom can help boost intimacy and emotional connection.
- Medical Treatment
Medications may be considered when low sex drive arises from health conditions or hormonal fluctuations. It’s important to mention that, in most cases, medications are not the first line of treatment. Here are some of the common medications recommended to treat low libido:
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy may be recommended to women experiencing hormonal shifts, especially due to menopause. This may include estrogen, testosterone, and/or progesterone.
- Flibanserin [Addyi]: Addyi is an FDA-approved oral medication prescribed for treating HSDD in premenopausal women. It primarily works by affecting serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain. It has been shown to increase sex drive and reduce the stress associated with low libido.
- Bremelanotide [Vyleesi]: Vyleesi is another FDA-approved medication prescribed for treating HSDD in premenopausal women. It is an injectable medicine that works by stimulating estrogen receptors in the brain. It is usually self-administered before sexual activity.
- Sildenafil [Revatio, Viagra]: Even though sildenafil is primarily used for treating erectile dysfunction in men, it can be beneficial for women who experience low libido due to taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for depression.
It’s important to note that every individual is unique and what may work for one may not work for others. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional who will guide you to the right treatment plan.
How to cope
Living with low libido can be challenging, but with the right strategies and treatment, it’s manageable. Here are some helpful tips:
- Manage Stress: If you suffer from heightened stress or anxiety, it’s important to practice stress management techniques. Explore different approaches and find something that works best for you.
- Open Communication: Talk to your partner openly about your concerns and communicate your desires. Having an open conversation will certainly help strengthen the emotional bond.
- Prioritize Self-Care: If you struggle with self-esteem issues, take the time to practice self-care. It could be anything that brings you joy and comfort. Taking care of yourself can help you overall, including sexual health.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to boost your mood. Whether it’s running, walking, or swimming, it’s important you remain physically active.
- Focus on Intimacy: When your sex drive is low, focus on activities that boost intimacy like cuddling and hugging.
- Address any Underlying Issue: If low libido is caused by any underlying health conditions, it’s important you seek professional help.
Remember, low libido is a complex issue. Always remain patient and compassionate with yourself throughout the journey.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
If you’re experiencing symptoms of low libido or it’s causing you significant distress, it’s important to seek medical attention. Consider Dr. Mozhgan, one of the best gynecologists in Dubai. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Mozhgan is dedicated to helping women achieve their best health.
Book an appointment and take control of your health!
