Low Libido In Women: Tips On How To Increase Your Sex Drive
It's common for couples to reach a point where their sex lives plateau. Frequently, women tend to experience a lower libido compared to men. This can manifest as a disinterest in sex, challenges in deriving pleasure from it, and a lack of sexual thoughts or fantasies. We understand how upsetting this can be for the sexual health of both partners and may even jeopardize the relationship if left unresolved.
Discovering the reason behind your decreased sex drive can result in successful treatment choices.
Continue reading to discover more about identifying the reasons for your decreased sex drive, signs to watch for, and strategies to enhance your libido.
Symptoms of a Low Libido in Women
Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is the term used to describe low sex drive although there is some disagreement over whether a woman's diminished interest in sex should be classified as a disorder.
Among the signs of HSDD are:
- Trouble enjoying sexual activities or stimulation of the genitals
- Lack of motivation to start sexual activity
- Not interested in sex
- Non-existent sexual thoughts or fantasies
Diagnosing a Low Sex Libido in Women
Studies have shown that women have lower libido and think about sex less frequently than men, indicating a difference in the sex drive between the two genders.
What is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
To receive a diagnosis of HSDD, based on the DSM-5-TR, one must experience a lack of desire that results in significant distress and negatively impacts relationships or self-esteem for six months or longer.
It's crucial to remember that certain changes in sexual desire are normal and beneficial. Numerous other elements can diminish sexual drive without meeting the criteria for HSDD.
To eliminate HSDD, collaborate with your physician to pinpoint potential reasons and possible treatments. As there are no specific medical tests for diagnosing HSDD, your doctor will rely on your symptoms to learn how your decreased sexual desire is affecting your relationships and daily life.
Causes of Low Libido
There are numerous potential reasons for low sex drive in women.
- Transition period before and during menopause
- Getting older
- Medical conditions beneath the surface (e.g., cancer, bladder/bowel problems)
- Mental or emotional difficulties
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Some specific drugs
- Issues with relationships such as lack of emotional connection or satisfaction
- Trauma-related to sexual experiences
- Past unpleasant sexual encounters
Treatment
After pinpointing the factors causing your decreased libido, you can start seeking treatment.
Lifestyle Changes
If the issues are determined to stem from stress or relationships, various strategies could be beneficial. Your doctor might recommend individual or couples therapy to create a plan (preferably with your partner included) to deal with any problems impacting your relationship.
You and your partner need to collaborate with a therapist to address any possible issues. A counselor can assist in improving communication with your partner and recommending suitable sexual techniques to enhance pleasure in your relationship.
Some changes you can make to your lifestyle are:
- Engaging in physical activity consistently
- By incorporating mindfulness techniques
- Refraining from smoking and drinking alcohol
- Making time for connection through intimate communication or non-sexual physical contact such as a massage, as well as exploring new sexual experiences like using toys, sharing fantasies, or engaging in role-playing.
Medical Interventions
Medications can also be used to treat a decreased sex drive; however, treatments for women have not been as effective as those for men.
Estrogen Treatment
Many premenopausal and postmenopausal women undergo estrogen level changes as a result of decreased blood flow to the vagina. If HSDD symptoms are due to low estrogen levels, your doctor might suggest estrogen therapy with a cream, suppository, or ring that delivers estrogen to the vagina with fewer side effects than estrogen pills.
Testosterone Treatment
This hormone is important for female sexual function, despite women having significantly lower levels of testosterone compared to men. In the US, the FDA hasn't approved testosterone for treating sexual conditions in women. However, it is still recommended at times to boost a low sex drive.
Testosterone administered through the skin and absorbed into the blood could benefit postmenopausal women. Initially, this therapy can be attempted for a maximum of six months. If necessary, a healthcare professional can continue it with careful observation. Using testosterone in females can lead to acne, increased body hair, and alterations in mood or personality.
The O-Shot
The O-Shot, an injection of a plasma solution administered into the vagina by a medical professional, also enhances blood flow and circulation. The process is new and has not yet received FDA approval.
Clitoris Treatment
The Eros clitoral therapy device, also known as the Eros-CTD, is a portable device equipped with a detachable, interchangeable small plastic cup designed to enhance blood circulation to the clitoris and genitals through a vacuum mechanism.
In April 2000, the FDA approved Eros Therapy for the treatment of sexual arousal and orgasmic disorders. In the United States, you need a prescription to buy the device.
Alternatively, you can get the sildenafil cream for women. Apply the topical prescription and allow a few minutes for it to take effect. This blend of cream can boost women's sexual pleasure by enhancing stimulation, sensitivity, and intensity of orgasms.
Addyi
An alternative treatment is Addyi, a pill known as flibanserin, which is taken orally and functions by affecting brain chemicals to boost desire. Nevertheless, this medication can lead to potential side effects such as low blood pressure, fainting, and dizziness.
Vyleesi
A new addition to the field of treatment is Vyleesi (bremelanotide), which was given FDA approval for premenopausal women in 2019. It's an injection that is self-administered at home before engaging in sexual activity. Researchers are still unsure about the exact mechanism through which Vyleesi boosts sexual desire, despite its activation of brain receptors.
Remember
Low libido in women can serve as a starting point to investigate what is lacking or desired if the underlying issue is psychological rather than medical.
Approach this topic with sensitivity, vulnerability, gentleness, compassion, curiosity, and care for yourself and others as it can be delicate for everyone involved.
