Low Female Sex Drive
Why am I losing my sex drive?
The reasons for low libido will vary from woman to woman. The reasons can be either physical or psychological. Here is a list of some of the potential reasons why a woman's libido might be low.
• Hormonal Birth Control: Research has shown that hormonal contraceptives (like the pill, the patch, and vaginal rings) have profound effects on libido.
• Anemia: One of the possible symptoms of anemia is low sex drive. Other symptoms include arthritis, missed periods, early menopause, impotence, and heart problems.
• Drug Abuse: Alcoholism and drug abuse can lower libido, along with having plenty of other negative side effects.
• Diabetes: One of the possible symptoms of diabetes is a loss of libido.
• Post-Pregnancy Hormones: The hormonal changes that occur after a woman has given birth can lead to a lower sex drive. The general trauma of childbirth is thought to play a part in the lower sex drive as well.
• Certain Prescription Drugs: Certain drugs, especially tranquilizers, can lower libido.
• Psychological Issues: Depression, stress, and anxiety can lead to lower libido.
• Past Trauma: Past sexual abuse or rape may lead a woman (or man) to be uninterested in sex. Seeing a therapist about past trauma can help you work through it.
• Relationship Problems: Having problems with your significant other can lead to a decrease in libido.
How many women suffer from low libido?
More and more studies are coming out in recent years about the increasing prevalence of low libido in women. Almost half of women report a drop in libido at some point in their lives. "A cross-sectional study of 31,000 U.S. females 18 and older published in 2008 in Obstetrics and Gynecology magazine, about 43 percent of women reported sexual problems."* Women on antidepressants are more likely to suffer from low libido.
Can low libido be cured?
Loss of sexual desire can be rectified, but often it requires carefully examining the source of the problem. Many people don't know why their libido has decreased. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned that it might be a health-related issue.
