Libido is often referred to as your sex drive or your desire to want to engage in an intimate relationship. For women, changes in libido are often caused by several factors ranging from hormonal fluctuations to emotional state of mind. If you have lost weight recently, you may begin to feel a change in your sexual desires. Some women experience an increase in libido, but weight loss can also trigger a lack of libido. Everyone has different responses to weight loss. If you notice drastic changes, you should consult a physician to rule out an underlying medical problem.
Body Changes
For some women, having excess fat in the belly, legs and upper body area can make sex challenging and less stimulating. Being overweight may deplete self-esteem and lower libido levels. As your body sheds excess pounds of fat, several physical changes become apparent, and a slimmer mid-section and inner-thigh area can make intimacy easier, because you can move around more freely. If you are carrying less weight around, you may also have more energy, which can increase libido levels. On the flip side, if you have lost lots of weight due to illness, injury or medication, you may find yourself unattractive because of your weight loss. Feeling self-conscious about your weight, can decrease libido.
Hormonal Changes
A woman’s body is constantly changing, and, as you go through pregnancy, encounter the aging process or have medication changes, your hormones can affect your sex drive. During pregnancy, you may see a surge in certain hormones that can increase your libido and enhance your sex drive, explains MayoClinic.com. After delivery, especially if you breastfeed, because of hormonal changes, you may not have the desire for intimacy. Later in life, the transition into menopause may affect your desire because of the drop of estrogen levels in your body. MayoClinic.com explains that, on the other hand, during menopause, you experience an increase in testosterone levels, which may help to increase libido.
Psychological
There are several psychological factors that may affect your libido. If you have relationship problems with your spouse or are in an abusive relationship, either physically or emotionally, it could negatively affect your sex drive. If stress-related factors such as work stress, financial issues and personal relationship problems are causing weight loss, it could interfere with your desire for sex. The loss of a loved one, moving and any other factor that impacts you emotionally can also decrease libido. Weight loss associated with psychological distress can also lead to depression, notes American Family Physician. You can reach a healthy weight, and restore your sex life, once you are treated for your depression through medication or therapy.
Surgery
If you are significantly overweight or obese, you may have considered bariatric surgery. This type of surgery helps you lose weight quickly by limiting the amount of food you can eat and digest. As the weight comes off, you may find yourself with an increase in energy and libido. Body-altering cosmetic surgery can also help boost your libido by improving your self-esteem and overall appearance. Breast reduction or augmentation can help make you feel more attractive and encourage your willingness to become more sexually involved with your partner.
References
- New York Times Health; A Lively Libido Isn’t Reserved for the Young; Jane E. Brody; April 10, 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Low Sex Drive in Women; Dec. 8, 2009
- American Family Physician; Depression and Sexual Desire; Robert L. Phillips, Jr., M.D. and James R. Slaughter, M.D.
- Consumer Guide to Bariatric Surgery: Is Sex Better After Weight Loss Surgery?
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Breast Augmentation
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