There will be times in a woman’s life when her sexual desires naturally fluctuate over the years.  Various life experiences play a factor.  Such as pregnancy, menopause, illness, or any other major life event.  If you are concerned about a decline in your sex drive.  Try not to lose all hope.  Most of the time lifestyle changes can improve your sex drive and/or medication prescribed by your doctor.

Symptoms of low sex drive in women:

If you are currently in a healthy relationship and you have noticed a decline in your sexual desire this may be an indicator, especially if it causes you distress.  

1. Having little to no interest in any type of sexual activity, including masturbation.
2. You never or seldom have sexual thoughts or fantasies.
3. It is concerning to you that you have little to no interest in sex and/or sexual thoughts. 

Causes

If you are experiencing issues with your physical or emotional well-being it can affect your desire to get intimate.  Try to access any changes that have recently occurred in your life.  It can be anything from lifestyle changes, recent life experiences, issues with your relationship, and more.

Physical causes

Illnesses, physical changes, and medications can cause a low sex drive, including:

• Sexual problems. If you are unable to orgasm or if you experience pain during intercourse – it can reduce your desire for sex.
• Medical diseases. Arthritis, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and neurological diseases can play a role in your sex drive.
• Medications. Certain prescription drugs are known to lower your libido.  Especially antidepressants, you may want to look at the side effects of the medications you are currently taking.
• Lifestyle habits. Having a cocktail may put you in the mood but too much alcohol can affect your sex drive. The same is true of recreational drugs. Also, smoking decreases blood flow, which may dull arousal.
• Surgery. If you have had surgery recently and/or you feel self-conscious after your procedure.  
• Fatigue. You may be exhausted from being a caregiver to young children or caring for aging parents can contribute to your low sex drive.

Changes in your hormones

Can occur during:

• Menopause. Your estrogen levels drop during the transition into menopause. Making you less interested in sex and causing vaginal dryness.  Which can result in painful or uncomfortable sex. Although many women still find sex to be satisfying during menopause and beyond, some experience a change in their libido during this hormonal change.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. A woman’s hormones change during pregnancy, after having a baby, and during breastfeeding.  In turn, affecting your sex drive. Plus the fact you may be fatigued from caring for a newborn.  Body image can contribute to changes in your sexual desire too.

Psychological causes

Your mental health can affect your sexual desire. There are many psychological causes of low sex drive, including:

• Anxiety or depression
• Financial stress or work stress
• Poor body image
• Low self-esteem
• History of physical or sexual abuse

Issues in your relationship

Many women find that emotional closeness is essential to sexual intimacy. If you are currently experiencing problems in your relationship – that can be a major factor. 

Such as:

• Feeling less connected to your partner
• Conflicts or fights with your partner that have not been resolved
• Lack of communication of sexual needs and preferences
• Trust issues with your partner

It is normal to go through fluctuations in your sex drive.  If you can relate to any of these issues and find them concerning, we are here to help you through them when you are ready. The solution may be as simple as changing your medication or making little lifestyle changes.  OB-GYN Women’s Centre is here to help you through all of the stages of your life.