What are the Treatments for Reduced Libido in Women?

Overview

A low libido has long been considered a fact of life as a woman grows older. However, that is a myth. There are more specific reasons for experiencing this lack in sex drive, with several options for treatment. Physical and psychological causes for reduced libido exist, and pinpointing the specific cause will help you begin to boost it.

The Facts

Reduced libido means that the sex drive or desire to have sex is low or nonexistent. It is not the same as inability to achieve orgasm during sex. A woman experiencing reduced libido is simply not interested in sex or has become turned off by the prospect.

Physical Causes

Many women are iron deficient, and anemia could be causing reduced libido. A simple blood test by your doctor will determine if this is the cause, and improved diet and iron supplements will solve the problem.

Alcohol and prescription drugs---especially tranquilizers---can affect libido negatively; talk to your doctor if you have started any new prescriptions and have experienced a lack of interest in sex.

If you resume or stop taking birth control, you may experience further hormonal changes that may sink your libido. According to NetDoctor, hormonal changes are natural after childbirth and reduced libido is one result.

Psychological Causes

Depression, stress, being overworked and anxiety affect every part of a woman's life, and her desire in the bedroom is no exception. Fix the underlying psychological causes and libido will probably improve---along with your outlook on life.

More difficult to fix is leftover trauma from a past rape or child abuse. These life-altering events carry significant emotional and spiritual ramifications for the victim, often requiring the aid of a mental health professional.

Unfortunately, it is possible a woman simply doesn't desire her partner anymore; her sex drive is not diminished in general, just with her current sexual partner. Solving this difficulty requires teamwork with the partner in an open and loving way. Consult a counselor if you have difficulty with these conversations.

Expert Insight

Menopause is NOT a direct cause for reduced libido in women. Many women find they are more interested in sex after menopause. Lowered or altered hormone levels, a side effect of menopause, may affect libido for some. Hormone replacement therapy under a doctor's care can help if this is the cause for your reduced libido.

Time Frame

Pinpoint the basic cause of your reduced libido and begin working on solving the situation. If the causes are physical, change your diet, add a quality iron supplement and be patient. Physical causes for low libido can start to resolve in a few weeks but may take several months (especially after childbirth). If your low libido is caused by psychological factors, working through the issues with a good counselor may take several sessions and possibly still require the use of prescription drugs.