If you’ve experienced a significant loss of interest in sex, you’re not alone. Nearly one third of women ages 18-59 have experienced low libido, and there are a variety of physical and emotional factors at play.
No matter what you’ve heard, there’s no normal frequency for sex. If what you’re currently doing is working for you and your partner, there’s no need to address it. However, if it feels like your sexual desire has significantly decreased and is causing you to feel distressed or unhappy, there are treatments available to address the physical and emotional roots of low libido.
What Is Inhibited Sexual Desire?
Loss of sexual desire, also called hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), is characterized by a lack of sexual fantasies or desire for sexual activity. It can be associated with feelings of personal distress or difficulty with your partner caused by your lack of sexual desire.
Symptoms are not limited to a low or non-existent sex drive. You may also experience the desire for sex but have difficulty maintaining arousal, inability to become aroused or have an orgasm, or pain during sex.
Causes of Low Sex Drive in Women
Female sexuality is complex, which is why inhibited sexual desire in women can be caused by a wide range of physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. Everything from illness and stress to pregnancy and relationship problems can trigger low libido.
If left untreated, the underlying causes and lack of sexual desire can cause feelings of distress and disconnection over time. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Physical Causes
- Diseases such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure
- Medications, including antidepressants and hormonal birth control
- Surgeries related to the breast or genital tract
- Pain during sex or inability to orgasm
- Hormone changes or imbalances, often associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause
Lifestyle Causes
- Excessive alcohol, illicit drug, or tobacco use
- Stress or fatigue from lifestyle factors including work, school, or family responsibilities
- Relationship problems with your partner
Psychological Causes
- Mental illness, including anxiety and depression
- Low self-esteem or poor body image
- Past sexual abuse or negative sexual experiences
How is Low Sex Drive Diagnosed?
At Walnut Hill, we want you to know that conversations about low libido are always welcomed without judgement. We offer a safe and respectful environment to address any underlying causes and connect you to the appropriate treatment plan.
If you are struggling with inhibited sexual desire, we will start with a diagnostic evaluation, including a detailed medical history and blood work. This will help us uncover any possible physical, lifestyle, or psychological causes of low sex drive. Stress, depression, mood disorders, low testosterone, hormonal imbalances, and nutrition are all things we look for during this evaluation.
Treatments for Low Libido
Once we’ve identified the cause, we’ll address your specific libido issues through a variety of possible treatments. This could include medication or hormonal treatments. We may also refer you to a counselor to help you cope with mental illness, past trauma, or relationship concerns.
If your low sex drive is related to relationship problems, many couples find support groups helpful and comforting. There are also a number of books we can recommend with tips to help you discuss sexuality, pleasure, and issues with your partner.
Make an Appointment
So many women suffer with inhibited sexual desire alone, which can lead to low self-esteem, frustration, and relationship problems. However, there are often underlying causes that can easily be treated to help you resolve your libido issues and enjoy a healthy sex life.
When it comes to your sexual health, desire is so important and shouldn’t be taboo. Call us today at (214) 363-7801 today to make an appointment.