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Understanding the Causes and Treatments for Low Sexual Desire in Women

With inputs from Dr. Vidhi Modi

Updated on: October 2023

With inputs from Dr. Vidhi Modi

Updated on: October 2023

Reviewed by Dr Raja Indana

Read our editorial policy

Table of contents

Are you looking to reignite the flame in your intimate relationship? If you’re a woman experiencing low sexual desire, you’re not alone. Many women go through periods where their passion seems to have fizzled out.

But don’t worry, there are proven strategies to revive that spark! In this guide, we will explore effective techniques to rekindle your passion once again. Our team of expert Sexologists has compiled a comprehensive guide on overcoming low sexual desire in women. From understanding the potential causes to implementing practical strategies, we have you covered.

Whether it’s hormonal changes, stress, or relationship issues, we will look into every aspect to help you identify what might be dampening your desire. We will introduce you to techniques to reduce anxiety, communication exercises, and new experiences to rekindle your passion.

With the right knowledge, support, and mindset, you can reclaim your sexuality and enhance your overall well-being. Get ready to rediscover the pleasure and excitement that are waiting for you.

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Chapter 1: Exploring a lack of sexual desire in women

What is low sex drive in women?

Low sexual desire, often referred to as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), or simply low libido, is a condition characterized by a persistent lack of interest or desire for sexual activity. It’s essential to recognize that sexual desire can fluctuate throughout a person’s life due to various factors, and a temporary decrease in libido does not necessarily indicate a medical problem.

Chapter 2: Understanding the difference between desire and arousal

Before going deeper into this topic, it is important to understand the difference between sexual desire and sexual arousal. This distinction is critical in helping Sexologists determine whether your problem is psychological or physiological in nature.

Sexual desire and sexual arousal are two distinct yet related concepts.

Sexual desire is the psychological inclination or interest in engaging in sexual activity, the mental part, the one we think of as libido.

On the other hand, sexual arousal refers to the physiological responses of the body, such as increased blood flow to the genital area. It’s important to note that low sexual desire is a condition that can significantly affect one’s sex life.

When a person experiences low sexual desire, they may not feel motivated to engage in sexual activities, even if their body is physiologically aroused. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between these two concepts to identify and address any potential issues.

Chapter 3: Causes of low sexual desire (or libido) in women

Sexual desire is influenced by a variety of factors that impact intimacy, including physical and emotional health, life experiences, beliefs, daily habits, and the quality of your relationship. Difficulties in any of these areas can negatively affect your desire for sex.

Psychological causes of low sexual desire in women

Your emotional state can influence your sexual desire. There are numerous psychological explanations for reduced sex drive, including:

Stress: When a person is under a lot of stress, it can significantly reduce their interest in sex. This is because the demands of daily life, such as work and personal issues, can take a toll on their mental and physical well-being, leading to a decrease in libido. In such situations, it is important to seek ways to manage stress levels effectively, which can help improve overall sexual health.
Body Image Issues: The way a woman perceives her body image can have a significant impact on her overall self-confidence, which in turn can have a direct impact on her sexual desire. Negative body image perceptions can lead to feelings of insecurity and a lack of comfort with one’s own body, making it difficult to feel sexually attractive or desirable. Over time, these negative perceptions can take a toll on a woman’s mental health and well-being, leading to a range of negative outcomes. Therefore, it is important for women to cultivate a positive body image and learn to appreciate and love their bodies, regardless of what society may dictate as “ideal.”
Past Trauma: Sexual trauma or abuse can significantly impact an individual’s sexual health and well-being, causing physical and emotional distress. This can lead to a decrease in sexual desire, difficulties with arousal and orgasm, and an overall negative perception of sexual experiences. The effects of sexual trauma may persist long after the traumatic event and can have a significant impact on one’s quality of life.

Physical causes of low sexual desire in women

Many physical illnesses, physical changes, and medications can lead to low sexual desire. Some of them are:

Sexual problems. Experiencing pain during sexual intercourse or struggling to achieve orgasm can have a profound impact on your overall sexual desire and satisfaction. These issues can significantly diminish your motivation and enthusiasm for engaging in sexual activities.
Medical diseases. Many health conditions unrelated to sex can affect your desire for intimacy. These include arthritis, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and neurological disorders.
Medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, have been found to have an impact on sexual desire and function. These prescription drugs work by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, which can ultimately lead to a decrease in libido. This reduction in sex drive can be accompanied by other side effects such as difficulty achieving orgasm. It is important to discuss any concerns about sexual side effects with your Sexologist before starting or changing any medications.
Lifestyle habits. Enjoying a glass of wine can sometimes help set a romantic mood and make you feel more open to intimacy. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of how much alcohol you consume. Too much alcohol can actually reduce your interest in sex. The same goes for street drugs – while they may temporarily affect your mood, they can have a negative impact on your sex drive.

Additionally, if you’re a smoker, it’s important to know that smoking can decrease blood flow in your body. This reduced blood flow can lead to a decrease in arousal, making it more challenging to become sexually excited. So, it’s a good idea to be aware of how these substances can affect your sexual desire and overall sexual health.

Surgery. Undergoing surgery on your breasts or genital tract can have a significant impact on how you perceive your body, your ability to enjoy sexual activities, and your overall desire for sex. These surgeries can alter the way you feel about yourself and your body, affecting your confidence and comfort during sexual encounters.
Fatigue. Feeling exhausted from taking care of young children or elderly parents can be a major factor in having a low sex drive. It’s completely understandable that when you’re constantly caring for others, you may not have the energy or desire for sexual activity. Additionally, fatigue resulting from illness or surgery can also play a role in diminishing your sexual desire.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnancy and breastfeeding bring about hormonal changes in a woman’s body, and these changes can have a big effect on her sex drive. In simpler terms, when a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding, the way her hormones work can make her feel less interested in having sex.

Relationship issues and their connection to low libido

They include the following:

Communication problems: When you and your partner don’t talk openly and honestly about your feelings and desires, it can create confusion and misunderstandings. These misunderstandings can then lead to a decrease in your interest and desire for sexual intimacy. It’s crucial to communicate openly to maintain a healthy and satisfying sexual relationship.
Emotional distance: When you have conflicts in your relationship or feel emotionally distant from your partner, it can put a damper on your sexual interest. In other words, it can make you less interested in having sex. In the sections ahead, we’ll look into how relationship issues and emotional disconnect can affect your desire for intimacy and explore ways to improve this aspect of your relationship.

Chapter 4: What are the symptoms of low sex desire in women?

Low sex desire is a fairly common problem. However, because of the lack of awareness surrounding it, it is difficult to diagnose.

Here are some signs that it is time to see a sexologist about low sex drive:

Loss of interest in or enjoyment from sex
Strains in intimate relationships as a result of low libido
Negatively affected quality of life
Loss of interest in social activities
A low sense of self-worth
Symptoms that last six months or more

Chapter 5: Diagnosis for lack of sexual desire in women

Diagnosing low sexual desire in women can be challenging, as there are no specific tests for it. However, there are other methods available to diagnose this issue. Low sexual desire can often be a result of underlying medical conditions, such as

Arthritis
Diabetes
Hormonal imbalances
Mental health issues
Cholesterol
Liver disorders
Fatigue
Coronary artery disease, etc

To determine if any of these conditions are causing low libido, your Sexologist may prescribe physical examinations, blood tests, and psychological evaluations. These tests can help identify the underlying cause of low sexual desire in women.

Additionally, your Sexologist may also perform

Medical history review

Your healthcare provider will review your medical history to gather information about any previous illnesses, medications you’re taking, and lifestyle factors that could be influencing your sexual desire.

These diagnostic tools help your healthcare provider get a comprehensive understanding of your situation, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Pelvic exams

This is done to check for signs of physical changes leading to low sexual desire.

These changes may include thinning of the genital tissues, vaginal dryness, or areas that are sensitive to pain.

By identifying these changes, we can better understand the underlying causes of low sexual desire and develop a more effective treatment plan.

Chapter 6: Treatment options for low sexual desire in women

Treatment options include addressing the underlying medical causes of low sexual desire in women. They may include one or more of the following options:

Sex education and counseling

1. Education on sexual health:

Sex education provides essential knowledge about the human body, sexual function, and relationships. Understanding these aspects can help you make informed decisions and reduce anxiety or uncertainty related to sexual activity.

2. Counseling for emotional and psychological factors:

Counseling sessions with a trained therapist or counselor can help you explore and address emotional or psychological factors contributing to your low libido. These professionals offer a safe space to discuss your feelings, concerns, and relationship issues. Just as you’d talk to your guide about your fears or worries on a journey, in counseling, you can openly discuss your feelings, concerns, and relationship issues.

3. Communication improvement:

Counseling can improve communication between partners, helping you express your needs, desires, and concerns more openly. Effective communication is often key to resolving relationship issues that may be affecting your sexual desire.

Medications for low sex desire in women

Along with counseling, your Sexologist may also prescribe certain medications to help boost libido. Here’s a closer look at these medications:

1. Addyi (Flibanserin):

Addyi is a medication approved for the treatment of HSDD or low libido in premenopausal women. It works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, potentially increasing sexual desire. Your healthcare provider will assess whether this medication is suitable for you, considering potential side effects and benefits.

2. Off-label medications:

In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications not specifically designed for treating low libido but have shown potential benefits. These may include certain antidepressants, but their use is typically individualized.

3. Bremelanotide (Vyleesi):

This is a medication injected just under the skin in your belly or thigh before sexual activity to boost your libido. However, it’s important to note that some women may experience nausea, which is more likely to occur after the first injection but tends to improve with subsequent injections. Other potential side effects include vomiting, flushing, headaches, and a skin reaction at the site of the injection.

4. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):

One of the main symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is dryness or shrinking of the vagina, which can lead to discomfort during sex and a decrease in desire. Hormone medications that aim to relieve GSM symptoms may help make sex more comfortable, which in turn could improve your desire.

Possible hormone therapies include:

Estrogen:

There are different ways to take estrogen, such as pills, patches, sprays, and gels, with smaller doses available in vaginal creams and slow-releasing suppositories or rings. It’s important to discuss with your doctor the advantages and disadvantages of each form. However, it’s worth noting that estrogen isn’t effective in improving sexual functioning related to hypoactive sexual desire disorder.

Testosterone:

Testosterone, a male hormone, plays a crucial role in female sexual function, despite being present in much smaller quantities in women. While the FDA has not approved testosterone for treating sexual dysfunction in women, it is sometimes prescribed off-label to help boost a low libido. However, the use of testosterone among women is a contentious issue. Its intake can result in acne, excessive body hair, and changes in mood or personality.

Prasterone (Intrarosa):

This medication is a vaginal insert that delivers DHEA directly to the vagina, helping to ease painful sex caused by moderate to severe vaginal dryness associated with GSM. It should be used nightly to alleviate symptoms.

Ospemifene (Osphena):

Taken daily, this pill can alleviate painful sex in women with moderate to severe GSM. It is not approved for women with breast cancer or a high risk of developing it.

Chapter 7: When to see a Sexologist?

If you’re worried about your low desire for sex, talk to a Sexologist. The solution could be as simple as changing a medication you are taking, and improving any chronic medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Consult a Sexologist now!

MFine Sexual Wellness Program for women

At MFine, we offer consultations with expert Sexologists to help you with concerns like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, vaginismus, and other related conditions. You can also check out our basic sexual health and wellness at-home lab tests, which include over 10+ tests to diagnose sexual and reproductive health. Alternatively, you can opt for our comprehensive sexual health and wellness tests, which include over 19+ tests to diagnose sexual and reproductive health.

In addition to our sexual wellness program for women, we also provide consultations for men’s sexual health to address common concerns such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and other issues.

Find out more about MFine’s Sexual Wellness Program for Men.

Chapter 8: Lifestyle and home remedies

In addition to the treatments described above, making lifestyle modifications, such as those described below, can also help boost your libido.

Exercise:

Physical activity is not only beneficial for your overall health but can also have a positive impact on your sexual desire. Regular exercise:

Boosts endorphins: Exercise releases endorphins, often called “feel-good” hormones, which can enhance your mood and increase your interest in sex.
Improves blood flow: Physical activity enhances blood circulation, including to the genital area, which can heighten arousal and sensitivity.
Enhances body image: Regular exercise can help you feel better about your body, which, in turn, can improve self-confidence and sexual desire.

Stress Less:

Stress can be a major libido killer. Finding ways to manage and reduce stress is essential for a healthy sex life:

Relaxation techniques: Explore relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and reduce stress levels.
Prioritize self-care: Make time for self-care activities that help you unwind and relax, whether it’s taking a warm bath, reading a book, or enjoying a hobby.

Communicate with your partner

Open and honest communication with your partner can enhance intimacy and desire:

Share your feelings: Express your needs, desires, and concerns with your partner. Knowing that you’re heard and understood can foster emotional closeness.
Quality time: Spend quality time together outside of the bedroom. Strengthening your emotional bond can lead to an increased desire for physical intimacy.

Set aside time for intimacy:

In our busy lives, it’s easy for intimacy to take a back seat. Scheduling regular intimate moments can reignite the spark:

Date nights: Plan regular date nights with your partner to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company.
Intimacy rituals: Create rituals that symbolize your commitment to each other, whether it’s a weekly candlelit dinner or a relaxing bath together.

Add a little spice to your sex life:

Variety can rekindle desire. Consider trying new things in the bedroom:

Fantasies and role play: Exploring fantasies or trying role-play can add excitement and spice to your sexual experiences.
Sexual education together: Learn about new techniques or practices together to expand your sexual repertoire.

Ditch bad habits:

Certain lifestyle habits can hinder your libido. Identifying and changing these habits can make a significant difference:

Excessive alcohol and smoking: Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking can improve blood flow and overall health, potentially enhancing your sexual desire.
Poor sleep habits: Prioritize quality sleep, as insufficient rest can lead to fatigue and reduced sexual interest.

Chapter 9: Coping and support

Low sex drive can be extremely challenging for both you and your partner. Therefore, it is natural to feel frustrated or sad if you can not feel as sexy and romantic as you used to be.

Simultaneously, low sex drive can make your partner feel rejected, leading to conflicts and strife. This type of relationship strife can also reduce desire for sex.

It may help to remember that sex drive fluctuations are a normal part of every relationship and stage of life. Try not to concentrate solely on sex. Instead, invest in yourself and your relationship.

Go for a long walk. Get some extra sleep. Before you leave the house, kiss your partner goodbye. Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant for a date night. Feeling good about yourself and your partner can be the most effective foreplay.

Chapter 10: Preparing for professional help

As part of a routine medical visit, Sexologists frequently ask about sex and intimacy. Take this opportunity to be candid about your sexual concerns.

But if your Sexologist does not bring it up, bring it up yourself. You may be embarrassed to discuss sex with your Sexologist, but the subject is perfectly appropriate. In fact, sexual fulfillment is an important component of overall health and well-being.

Consider asking your Sexologists these questions:

What could be causing my low sexual desire?
Are there any medical conditions affecting my sexual desire?
Are there specific lifestyle changes I should consider?
What are the available treatment options?
What are the potential benefits and risks of each treatment?
How can I improve communication about my sexual needs with my partner?
Are there sexual techniques or exercises that could help?
How long might it take to see improvements in my libido?
Can you recommend any educational resources or books on this topic?
How often should I follow up with you or seek additional support?
Are there support groups or counseling services you recommend?
Is my partner’s involvement in the treatment process beneficial?

Chapter 11: Rediscovering desire

When you’re concerned about your low sex drive, it’s a good idea to start with the easy fixes before rushing to the doctor. Here’s what you can do:

Self-Education: Begin by learning more about your own body and sexuality. Understanding how things work can often clear up misconceptions and boost confidence.
Erotic Books or Movies: Sometimes, a little bit of sensual content can help spark desire. Explore erotic books or movies to see if they put you in the mood.
Stress Management: Stress can be a major mood-killer. Try stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking time for yourself to unwind.

By taking these steps, you might discover that what you thought was a big sexual problem is actually something simple to address. However, if the issue persists, it’s important to consult a Sexologist to rule out any underlying medical causes. Remember, your well-being and satisfaction are worth exploring and addressing any concerns you may have about your sex drive.

Chapter 12: Conclusion

Experiencing a lack of sexual desire can be disheartening, but it’s important to know that this is a common concern, and you’re not alone in facing it. This guide has thoroughly examined the various dimensions of low sexual desire in women, encompassing its potential causes, symptoms, diagnostic processes, available treatments, and recommended lifestyle adjustments.

It’s crucial to recognize that addressing low libido goes beyond merely enhancing your sex life. It’s a journey towards improving your overall well-being and the quality of your relationships.

So, whether you opt for self-education, explore sensual experiences, or seek professional guidance, the most important step is the first one – acknowledging and addressing this concern.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There are resources, support networks, and effective solutions available to assist you along the way.

References

Can lack of sexual desire be cured?

Yes, the lack of sexual desire can often be addressed and improved through various treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and professional guidance. It’s important to seek help when it affects your well-being.

Consult an expert Sexologist now!

My wife has no desire for sex. What can I do?

Open and honest communication is crucial. Discuss your concerns with your wife, and consider seeking professional help, such as counseling, to address any underlying issues together.

At what age does sexual desire stop?

There’s no specific age when sexual desire stops. It can vary greatly among individuals. Factors like health, relationships, and lifestyle play significant roles in sexual desire throughout life.

I have no sex drive, and my husband is mad. What can I do?

Seek help together. Communication is key. Consult healthcare professionals or a therapist to understand and address the causes of low sex drive, and work together to find solutions.

Can lack of sex make a man angry?

Lack of sex can lead to frustration and stress in a relationship, which might manifest as anger. Open communication and seeking solutions can help reduce tensions.

Can lack of sex ruin a marriage?

It can strain a marriage if not addressed. However, with communication, understanding, and seeking professional guidance, many couples find ways to overcome this challenge.

Can a marriage survive without sex?

While sexual intimacy is important to many couples, marriages can survive without sex if both partners are on the same page and find other ways to maintain emotional closeness and connection.

Why is sex important for a woman?

Sexual intimacy is important for many women as it can strengthen emotional bonds, boost self-esteem, and contribute to overall relationship satisfaction. However, its significance can vary among individuals.

Does sex increase love?

Sexual intimacy can enhance emotional connections, but love is multifaceted and goes beyond physical intimacy. Love involves trust, communication, and shared experiences.

What happens when you don’t have sex for a long time?

Abstaining from sex for an extended period can vary in its effects. Some people may experience reduced sexual desire, while others may find it less important. Communication with your partner is key to understanding each other’s needs.

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