Libido, very simply put, is sexual desire or sex drive. Just as there are multiple shades in a color spectrum, levels of libido are unique to each woman, and these levels can rise and fall monthly throughout a woman’s lifetime depending on many biological and psychological factors.
What are the Different Levels of Sexual Desire?
Intensity can vary. Sexual desire may range from heightened – where a woman may want sex one or more times a day (hypersexuality), to several times a week, once a month, once every few months or year, (hyposexuality) or not at all (asexuality).
What is Considered ‘Normal Libido’?
There are no standards for ‘normal’ libido, especially if a couple is sexually compatible and comfortable in their mutual need for intimacy. Often, however, this is not the case. Women frequently tend to have a lower libido than men. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 10 women suffer from low sexual desire in the United States, meaning that 16 million women have what is referred to as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
A female’s low libido can have a huge negative impact on a relationship. Once the brilliant shine of newly-found lustful love wears off, couples may find their physical needs are drastically different. The apathy of the less ardent woman may lead to conflict, suspicion, hurt, infidelity and even complete collapse of the relationship. The woman herself may also suffer feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and frustration, emotions that might send her into an emotional depression, worsening the situation.
Mass media today slants sex to appear as if anything less than constant bedroom activity is abnormal, often convincing a woman with a perfectly healthy sexual appetite that she is some kind of freak if she doesn’t engage in a passionate encounter at every opportunity. For one who suffers from a lower sex drive, the impact may be even more devastating. The inner turmoil of a dwindling self-image and shattered self-esteem can compound the problems already complicated by sexual dysfunction.
What are the Causes of Low or Waning Libido?
There can be many causes for low sexual desire, and they can be either physical or psychological.
Physical reasons for a low libido include:
- Hormonal imbalances: The three hormones that impact a woman’s sexual function, desire and reproductive organs are estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
- Testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for a healthy libido in women. Yes, ladies, we all have testosterone, just as all males produce estrogen! The amounts just vary for each gender. Testosterone is what enables a woman to fantasize, piques her interest in sex, and aids in lubricating the vagina to prepare for comfortable, pleasurable intercourse. A woman’s testosterone levels begin to rise just before she ovulates, piquing a day or two before, and reaching maximum strength at ovulation. This is Mother Nature’s way of preparing the body for reproduction by plumping the uterine wall, which in turn stimulates sensitive nerve endings, encourages lubrication and heightens sexual motivation. Immediately afterwards, the amount of this hormone in her body diminishes. A low testosterone count hampers the possibility of a satisfying sexual experience by minimizing enthusiasm, sensitivity and arousal.
- Estrogen is the main hormone responsible for the development of the female sex organs. It regulates the menstrual cycle and is crucial in thickening the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. As women age and enter the premenopausal stage (perimenopause), estrogen begins to significantly decrease until the levels are so low that menopause occurs. Vaginal tissue becomes thinner, less elastic, drier and more fragile. As with testosterone, natural lubrication diminishes with less estrogen, and this decrease affects sexual desire.
- Progesterone is another female hormone that is vital in thickening both the uterine wall and endometrium to protect the egg during the process of fertilization, conception and pregnancy. Levels normally rise immediately after ovulation. If fertilization does not occur, levels drop, and the uterine walls become thin again, allowing the unfertilized monthly egg to pass as menstruation. Progesterone also regulates a woman’s menstrual cycle. As with estrogen, levels decline with age. Research is still being done, but it is believed that progesterone’s role in waning libido is just as important as those of testosterone and estrogen.
- Menstrual cycle: Irregular or absent menstruation (secondary amenorrhea) can wreak havoc on natural hormonal processes, causing libido to become equally sporadic.
- Age: Testosterone, progesterone and estrogen levels diminish as women age and enter menopause, causing lowered sexual interest, loss of muscle mass, compromised skeletal health, and vaginal dryness that can lead to painful intercourse. As these hormone levels decrease, so does libido.
- Antidepressants: Sexual dysfunction, low lido and even genital numbness may be attributed to some currently prescribed antidepressants which are referred to as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’S).
- Drugs: All recreational or prescription drugs have side effects. They can inhibit hormonal functions, dull physical and mental sensations, dehydrate the body’s natural secretions and lubrications, or interfere with sexual desire. Blood pressure medications, tranquilizers and antihistamines are just a few. Always give your doctor a complete list of medications you are currently using.
- Lack of restful sleep: Drowsiness, irritability and fatigue can dampen anyone’s mood for lovemaking.
- Birth control: Some patches and oral contraceptives fool the body into believing it is pregnant by neutralizing the very hormones that enhance libido. If you notice a sudden disinterest in sex after beginning birth control, speak to your doctor.
- Alcohol, smoking or drug abuse: Smoking restricts blood flow to the body. The clitoris, labia and vagina become engorged with blood during sexual arousal, just like a man’s penis, so restricting this flow also restricts sensation and response to physical stimulation. Alcohol is a depressant. It dehydrates the body, dulls sensitivity, and causes loss of vaginal lubrication.
- Giving birth: Immediately after giving birth, a woman’s hormones are causing an uproar inside her body. Physical trauma to the vaginal area, possible postpartum syndrome, and the exhaustion and stress of caring for a newborn amplify sexual indifference. Luckily, these issues usually only last a few weeks, but if libido remains low or non-existent for longer, consult your doctor.
- Genital abnormalities or problems: Pelvic organ prolapse(POP), muscle mass and tissue deterioration due to aging (urogenital atrophy), fecal incontinence, urinary problems, dryness, atrophy, and a small vaginal opening are only a few of the physical problems that can decrease libido.
- Surgery: A hysterectomy with or without compete removal of the entire reproductive system (Oophorectomy) decreases or completely eliminates the hormones necessary for sexual gratification.
- Major health conditions: Cancer, high blood pressure, neurological disorders, hypothyroidism, diabetes, arthritis, infertility, and coronary artery disease, along with the medications and procedures necessary to correct these issues are just a few disorders that can weaken female libido.
- Anemia: Low iron levels caused by heavy periods can result in anemia. Anemia reduces red blood cells and compromises a protein called hemoglobin whose job is to push oxygen from your lungs to all your body parts, including the pelvic area. Since blood is vital to the labia, clitoris and vagina to enhance erotic sensitivity, anemia can greatly subdue bedroom pleasure and cause fatigue, weakness, and sexual apathy.
Psychological reasons for a low libido include:
- Low self-esteem or body image: If a woman is overweight, underweight, lacks self-confidence, or feels inferior in other ways, she may shy away from physical contact, robbing herself of the gratification of a healthy sex life.
- History of sexual abuse: Rape, assault, and molestation can have a devastating effect on the psyche. Without counselling, the aftermath of these experiences can leave lifelong psychological scars, and it is understandable that a woman may avoid any future sexual encounters.
- Religious and moral issues: Deep rooted personal beliefs can sometimes be detrimental to a healthy libido. Entrenched convictions about sex, religion, moral taboos and behavior can prevent a woman from truly enjoying an intimate relationship, causing her to view a physical union as repulsive or simply a ‘duty’ to get out of the way.
- Trauma: Psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can follow any highly disturbing event. Just as with sexual abuse, the repercussive emotions following the death of a loved one, a divorce, violence, being the victim of a crime, etc. may lead to sexual dysfunction and a damaged libido.
- Relationship problems: Constant tension and conflict with a loved one can slowly chip away at even the strongest relationships. Anger, disillusionment and unresolved issues ultimately make their way into the bedroom, negatively impacting any activity that is still, or no longer, going on there.
- Depression or anxiety: Either of these emotional conditions can affect performance or pleasure by causing disinterest, especially if medication is being used to control the issue.
- Lifestyle: As the world becomes more and more fast paced, a busy lifestyle and the responsibilities that come with it can succeed in putting any romance on the back burner, lowering the flames of passion and eventually putting them out altogether.
- Stress: Worries about health, finances, or other everyday problems cause physical and mental tension. If a woman is unable to relax and enjoy sex, orgasm is impossible and frustration inevitable, causing her to lose interest altogether.
- Anxiety: Anticipation of sex is not always viewed favorably. Many women dread intercourse when they feel it’s expected or demanded of them. Some worry that they may not fulfill their partner’s expectations, or that they might be urged to perform acts that they’re not comfortable with to please their mate, especially in a new relationship.
- Environmental stress: Distractions such as bright lights, lack of privacy and extreme noise can hinder a woman’s ability to relax and enjoy intimacy. For instance, visiting or living in a mother-in-law’s home, or listening to a neighbor’s loud, thumping music can impede full enjoyment of sex or orgasmic achievement.
- Poor communication: Optimal sexual performance does not come naturally. It’s a learning process for both partners. Many couples avoid telling each other what pleases them in the bedroom. Whether it is because if shyness, fear of shock, or ridicule, women sometimes avoid telling their mates what they prefer and, in time, come to dread intimacy altogether.
- Latent sexual orientation: Denial of gender preference can raise feelings of guilt and suppress the pleasure that comes with an open, honest, relationship.
Is Help Available?
YES!!!! There is no reason to go through life with lowered libido. Women can enjoy a satisfying sex life at any age, and with today’s resources and modern technology, we are usually able to effectively treat the problem.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In order to pinpoint the root of this dysfunction, frank honest discussion is necessary, as well as a list of any medications you are currently taking. Your doctor will ask pertinent questions to find out whether the problem is physical or emotional.
After an examination of the genital area, blood tests may be required to determine hormonal levels.
Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will move forward to correct the problem. It may be as simple as a change or alteration in medication or a new prescription. If surgery is indicated, most physical corrections are minimally invasive, can be done in our clinic, and the recovery time is usually short.
If the problem is psychological, our board-certified OB/GYNs can help. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.
