Loss of libido (sex drive) is a common problem that can affect men and women of any age. It is normal for many people, especially women, to lose sex drive after a certain age.
It normally happens with the women when they attain Perimenopausal age. A woman experiences mood swings, vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse during the perimenopausal phase.
The levels of the female hormone, estrogen, begin to fall in their blood which can affect libido and the loss of interest in sex.
There are N number of reasons for loss of libido among females. Dr. Anubha Singh, Gynecologist and IVF Specialist from Shantah IVF Centre said that "during pregnancy and lactation, it is not only the hormonal changes that can cause lack of libido. It is goaded by tiredness, low self esteem due to weight gain and compounded by psychological factors too."
What causes the loss of libido:
- Physical issues: Decreasing testosterone is a normal part of aging. However, a drastic drop in testosterone can lead to decreased libido.
- Medications: Certain medications can sometimes reduce libido in men, like medication for high blood pressure may prevent ejaculation, or anti-androgenic drugs such as cimetidine, finasteride and cyproterone, which block the effects or reduce the production of testosterone.
- Psychological issues which include depression, stress, and problems in your relationship. It's a serious illness where you may have feelings of extreme sadness that can last for a long time. These feelings are severe enough to interfere with your daily life, including your sex life.
- Illness: Hormonal change, diabetes, injury in the back after delivery, chronic illness like cancer, etc. can reduce the sperm production count. All these factors are responsible for the loss of libido in women and men.
"Unfortunately, there is no simple pill that women or men can just have, forget about their problems and get to their normal sex life. The treatment, therefore, depends on identifying the problem and treating it first. If the patient suffers any medical disorder such as diabetes or blood pressure it should be treated first. If the cause is medication, it would need to be changed," said Dr. Shweta Goswami, Gynecologist and IVF Specialist from Jaypee Hospital, Noida.
You can also take steps to boost your libido on your own. The following have the potential to increase your libido:
- Live a healthier lifestyle
- Get enough sleep
- Practice stress management
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Go for Testosterone replacement therapy (after consulting your doctor)
- Counseling
