Low Libido - What Causes it and When to Get Help
It is natural for women’s libido (sex drive) to change throughout their life, but what causes these changes and when is it truly a problem? You may also wonder: what qualifies as a “low libido”? There is often misconception about low libido being “all in your head”. While psychological factors do play a role in sexual desire, it is important to know physical causes as well.
Symptoms of a low sex drive include:
Lack of interest in sexual activity, including masturbation
Seldomly, or never, having sexual desires or thoughts
When it comes down to it, there is no concrete number that determines whether you have a low sex drive or not. Every individual is different and may experience sexual desire differently.
The bottom line is: if you are concerned, you should speak to a healthcare professional. You can book an appointment to see a doctor at Maud Medical Clinic HERE.
Physical Causes:
Many physical conditions can also affect libido as a symptom. You should speak to your healthcare provider if you think you could be experiencing low libido as a result of:
Diseases: Many illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and neurological diseases, as well as their treatments, can affect the sex drive.
Medicines: A lot of prescription drugs, such as common medications for depression and anxiety (SSRIs), can cause a decreased libido. If this is something that you experience and are bothered by, speak to your doctor about potentially changing medications.
Sexual Conditions: If you experience pain during sex or have difficulty orgasming, it can lower your desire for sexual experiences. Pain during sex is not normal! Speak to a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist or a Calgary Maud Medical Doctor to learn about treatment options.
Fatigue: Exhaustion from stress, illness, or surgery in your life can often cause decreased interest in sex.
Lifestyle: Alcohol, drugs, and smoking can cause lowered libido. Restricted blood flow from smoking can also cause lowered arousal.
Hormonal Changes:
Throughout a woman’s life, hormone levels fluctuate and can cause changes to her sex drive. Common hormonal changes in a woman’s like which may result in lowered libido are:
Menopause: During menopause estrogen levels decrease, which may cause lowered libido and vaginal dryness, among many other symptoms. If you are menopausal, there are treatments which may reduce your symptoms. Speak to a Maud Menopause Specialist Today
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnancy takes a huge toll on the body! Hormone changes during and after pregnancy can result in a lowered libido. The pressure of caring for a new baby, as well as fatigue and changes in body image can affect sex drive as well.
Psychological Causes and Relationship Factors:
There is a reason that many people say low libido is caused by psychological factors, because it is often true. However, you should rule out physical causes with your doctor first. Common psychological causes/relationship factors for a decreased sex drive are:
Stress: If you are worried about other things happening in your life, sex may not be a top priority for your body.
Low self-esteem or poor body image
History of abuse, or negative past sexual experiences
Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression
Lack of connection or emotional closeness with your partner: Sex is an intimate act! Sometimes if you do not feel fully comfortable with your partner your libido may be lowered, whether you realize the reason or not.
Lack of privacy: Being comfortable in your environment is just as important as being comfortable with your partner.
Poor Communication: Talk to your partner about your sexual needs and desires.
If you believe you are experiencing low libido due to psychological or relationship factors, speak to a mental health professional. At Maud Medical Clinic in Calgary, we have qualified Sex Counsellors who can help you.
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or have concerns about your libido, speaking with a physician at a Calgary medical clinic can provide clarity, reassurance, and appropriate care.
This article is not medical advice, please speak to a Maud Medical Clinic professional for a deeper understanding and medical advice.
References:
Mayo Clinic Staff, Low sex drive in women, March 7 2024.
