A woman’s libido is affected by many things, from psychological to physical issues. And because interest in sexual intercourse can greatly impact how we feel about ourselves and how we interact with our partner, it can feel frustrating when the desire we used to feel is depleted.
Amy Brenner, MD & Associates have resources and options for treatment for low libido in females. Our experienced providers can help women rediscover their sexual desire.
Continue reading to learn about some of the reasons women experience low libido and the treatment options our providers use to help women improve their sexual health.
Causes and Treatment for Low Libido in Females
Several things can influence a woman’s sexual desire. Our providers consider the following factors when determining what’s influencing your libido:
Hormones
Sex steroids (estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone), adrenal hormones (DHEA and cortisol), thyroid hormones, and prolactin can influence sexual desire. Likewise, the significant decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a loss of libido.
Hormone Treatment
Our providers can use bio-identical hormone optimization to help create an internal balance, restoring your libido and overall well-being.
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness (atrophic vaginitis) can make sexual intercourse painful. This condition is commonly caused by aging and hormone levels and can lead to other issues, such as:
- Changes to the vaginal tissue
- Decreased lubrication
- Painful intercourse
- Decreased libido because of these conditions
Treatment for Vaginal Dryness
Our providers often use bio-identical hormone treatment in pellet or cream form to treat vaginal dryness. We also have helpful non-hormonal options, like the O-Shot®, or FemiLift®.
Medications
Common medications can also affect sexual desire. The following are just a few medications that can decrease sex drive:
- SNRIs (Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor, and Cymbalta)
- Oral birth control pills
- Over-the-counter antihistamines, like Benadryl
- Opioid pain medications, like Percocet and Vicodin
- B-blockers, which treat blood pressure and heart conditions
- Benzodiazepines, like Valium and Xanax, taken for anxiety
Evaluate Your Medications and Consider Supplements
Our providers try to minimize or eliminate the need for these medications by using natural alternatives.
Genital Mismatch
Genital mismatch (defined as the increased diameter of the vaginal canal, often in conjunction with decreased size of the erect penis) is common as sexual partners age. This condition is caused by:
- Childbirth
- Weight gain
- Chronic straining (from constipation or difficulty with urination)
- Pelvic injury (often from pelvic surgery)
Vaginal/Vulvar Rejuvenation
Our providers can use the laser for vaginal tightening, and the Priapus Shot® to improve erections and the size of the penis for the male partner. Our providers may recommend a Vaginoplasty for significant vaginal laxity.
Lifestyle Factors and Treatment
Lifestyle choices, like lack of sleep and exercise and a poor diet, can also impact sexual drive. Patients experiencing anxiety and depression also may experience emotions that impact how they feel about their bodies.
Our providers help address patients’ general health by evaluating their:
- Cortisol levels and adrenal function
- Insulin resistance
- Thyroid testing when appropriate
- Gut health
Gynecological Concerns and Treatment
It’s also common for other gynecological issues to play a role in a person’s libido. These conditions include:
- Lichen sclerosus
- Vulvar vestibulitis (a chronic pain syndrome)
- Other vaginal infections
- Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding
Our providers can diagnose and treat these issues at our practice.
Work With Amy Brenner, MD & Associates for Treatment for Low Libido in Females in Cincinnati
By addressing the various causes and multiple treatment modalities for low libido, we are able to offer you a comprehensive approach to improving your interest in and pleasure with sex, and ultimately, the quality of your life.
If you are ready to start your journey, you can use our virtual consultation tool or schedule an appointment online.