Loss of libido ( also known as reduced sexual drive) is a common problem affecting both men and women. While statistics show more than 40% of women experience some changes in libido throughout their life, a persistent decrease in sexual interest can be a major concern and must be addressed.
Here are some of the most common reasons for a reduced sex drive in women:
1 . Increasing age
As a woman begins to age, the testosterone levels ( the steroid hormone that regulates the sex drive in women) that are at their peak during the early 30s, begin to decline towards menopause. This significantly reduces their sexual drive.
2 . Fluctuating Hormones
Women go through a lot of changes in their estrogen and testosterone levels every month. Especially during the crucial period of pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, and menopause, the hormones in the female undergo a lot of fluctuations leading to mood swings, reduced sex drive, vaginal dryness and painful coitus.
3 . Sexual dysfunction and associated problems
Sexual and reproductive problems such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, dyspareunia, vaginal dryness, inability to orgasm showcase a variety of symptoms that make sex painful and unwanted. Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), an absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity causing marked distress or interpersonal difficulty, affects 1/3rd of the women.
4 . Certain medications
Medications for different health conditions such as antidepressants, oral contraceptives, anti-seizure drugs, medication for heavy menstrual flow, though have been believed to have no significant side-effects, adversely affect the women’s libido.
5 . Psychological Stress
Stress, fatigue, anxiety, depression, trauma, shock and low self-esteem, all these factors together would also make the environment non-conducive to sexual activity. For a healthy sexual life, both mind and heart together need to be in sync and therefore has a significant impact on the sexual desires.
6 . Lifestyle Habits
Lifestyle habits such as smoking, an excess of alcohol, drugs, lack of sleep, sedentary lifestyle and consumption of unhealthy food negatively impact the sexual urges. All these together have been found to be the major cause for the increasing incidence of reduced sex drive amongst women.