Low libido is a common but rarely discussed challenge that affects millions of women. Defined as a lack of interest in sex, low libido can strain emotional intimacy and cause distress in relationships.
While the symptoms are clear, the causes of low female libido are complex and varied. By understanding the potential factors at play, women can take control of their sexual health and seek solutions.
This comprehensive guide will uncover the realities of low libido in women – from symptoms to causes to treatments – so you can reclaim your passion and purpose.
Defining Low Libido in Women
Libido refers to sexual interest and arousal. Low libido, or low sexual desire, involves a decrease in desire for or interest in sexual activity. Specifically, low libido in women is defined by:
- Lack of motivation or interest to initiate sex
- Reduced sex drive and arousal
- Decrease in sexual thoughts, fantasies or desire for intimacy
- Distress or interpersonal difficulty due to low sex drive
Up to 40% of women experience low libido at some point in life. Yet many suffer in silence, unaware that proven treatments exist.
Low libido differs from female sexual arousal disorders, which involve inability to become physically aroused. It also differs from female orgasmic disorder, which is difficulty reaching orgasm despite arousal.
While terminology varies, low libido, low sexual desire, inhibited sexual desire, and hypoactive sexual desire disorder all refer to the same experience of lacking sexual interest.
Common Signs and Symptoms
How can you identify low libido? Signs and symptoms include:
- Lack of interest or boredom with sex
- Never or rarely initiating intimate contact
- Loss of desire to kiss, touch or be physically close
- Avoidance of sexual interactions and intimacy
- Distress or tension due to differences in sexual needs with partner
- Difficulty becoming mentally aroused or excited for sex
- Emotional detachment or disconnection during sex
- Need for increased stimulation to become aroused
- Decrease in sexual thoughts, fantasies or erotic dreams
- No longer desiring or enjoying sex
A clinical diagnosis of low libido generally requires distress about the lack of sexual interest for a period of 6 months or more. However, even shorter term changes in desire can impact intimacy.
Underlying Causes and Risk Factors
Low libido has no single cause. Complex biological, medical, psychological and social factors influence women’s sexual desire. Potential contributors include:
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in reproductive hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone impact libido. Hormonal changes during:
- Menstruation
- Pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding
- Perimenopause and menopause
can decrease sex drive.
Medical Conditions
Certain illnesses and chronic conditions affect hormones, nerves, blood flow or mental health in ways that lower libido:
- Thyroid disorders
- UTIs or vaginal infections
- Endometriosis
- Arthritis, chronic pain or fatigue
- Cancer and breast cancer treatment
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Neurological conditions like MS or stroke
Medications
Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs interfere with sex drive, including:
- Hormonal birth control
- Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs)
- Blood pressure medications
- Sleeping pills
- Anxiety medications
Mental Health Issues
Mental health challenges directly impact sexual desire, including:
- Stress and exhaustion
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma or abuse
- Body image issues
- History of negative sexual experiences
Relationship Difficulties
Interpersonal problems can diminish sexual connection:
- Poor communication
- Trust issues or infidelity
- Conflict over childcare duties
- Power struggles
- Differing tastes in intimacy
- Lack of connection outside the bedroom
Age
Libido naturally declines with age due to lowered hormones and changes in the vagina. Menopausal women often notice a dramatic decrease.
Life Stresses
Daily pressures like work stress, financial strain and family responsibilities can reduce interest in sex.
Sociocultural Influences
Social expectations and negative cultural messages surrounding female sexuality can instill inhibitions or shame related to sex.
Assessing the Primary Cause
Pinpointing the primary contributor to low libido empowers women to find targeted solutions.
Reflect on when you first noticed decreased desire, any major life changes at that time, and whether specific factors seem to affect your libido. Track symptoms and discuss details with your doctor.
Blood tests can uncover hormonal imbalances and conditions like thyroid disorders or diabetes. Pelvic exams can detect infections or physical changes. Discuss all medications with your provider.
Often, an integrated approach addresses biological factors along with emotional, relationship and social components.
The Path to Healing and Desire
Boosting libido involves understanding your unique needs, embracing your sexuality, and considering proven treatments. With compassionate support, women can overcome low sex drive.
Self-Care Strategies
Making lifestyle adjustments can create a foundation for sexual wellbeing:
- Communicate with your partner about needs and intimacy goals
- Reduce stress through relaxation practices like meditation, yoga or massage
- Set the mood with music, candles or lingerie to feel sensual
- Exercise to improve body confidence and circulation
- Consume a nutritious diet and avoid excess alcohol
- Explore solo pleasure through practices like masturbation
- Allow time for non-sexual intimacy and emotional connection
Medical Solutions
For many women, physical factors are at play and medical treatments can help:
- Hormone therapy replaces hormones like estrogen, testosterone or DHEA to improve tissue health, arousal, lubrication and desire. Delivery methods include pills, patches, gels, creams or vaginal inserts.
- Medications like Addyi and Vyleesi remedy neurochemical imbalances that affect libido and sexual response.
- Vaginal laser therapy stimulates collagen production and blood flow to reverse changes after menopause.
- Therapeutic accessories like vibrators or suction devices increase arousal. Lubricants reduce discomfort.
Psychotherapy
Psychological counseling builds sexual confidence, intimacy skills, and mind-body awareness:
- Sex therapy facilitates communication, sensual exploration, relaxation techniques and mindfulness.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) transforms negative thought patterns, destructive beliefs or sexual anxiety.
- Trauma counseling resolves past experiences like sexual abuse to restore emotional and physical safety.
Holistic Approaches
Complementary wellness practices take a whole-person view:
- Acupuncture balances energy and boosts circulation for increased desire.
- Yoga cultivates body awareness, sexual confidence and connection through breath and movement.
- Nutritional supplements like maca, saffron or zinc enhance sexual functioning.
Each woman’s path to embracing her sexuality is unique. Yet with compassion and support, lasting passion is possible. By understanding the realities of low libido and considering proven solutions, women can reclaim the intimate lives they desire.
Reference
- Medical News Today. “What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder?” Medical News Today, 2018, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/232318.
- Verywell Mind. “What Is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder?” Verywell Mind, https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-female-sexual-arousal-disorder-5199432.
