Sexual Health and Libido

“Libido, otherwise known as your sexual ‘drive’ or ‘desire’
varies from woman to woman and there is no right
or wrong level. It is normal for desire to fluctuate…”.1

Umbrella
What may the Sexual Health and Libido Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Decreased Libido
  • Decreased Sex/Sexual Desire/Drive/Interest
  • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
  • Female Sexual Interest-Arousal Disorder (FSIAD) [HSDD + Female Sexual Arousal Disorders]
  • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder/Dysfunction (HSDD)
  • Lack of Sexual Desire/Drive/Interest
  • Libido
  • Low Libido
  • Low Sex/Sexual Desire/Drive/Interest
  • Sex/Sexual Desire/Drive/Interest

Libido

What is libido?

DotS the definition of libido may vary. The (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health’s (JH) definition is:

“Libido is the sexual instinct or erotic desire and pleasure. Your libido is otherwise known your ‘sex drive’”.2

Low Libido and HSDD

What are low libido and HSDD?

DotS the definition of low libido may vary. The Australasian Menopause Society’s (AMS) definition is:

“Low libido refers to diminished desire for sex. When clinically a problem it is referred to as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)”.3

Different Differences

Is libido one-size-fits-all?

In Libido: What Is Libido? the JH elaborate on:

“Libido varies from woman to woman and can be influenced by a range of different factors”.4

Cause

What may cause low libido in women?

In Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Causes the (United States) Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

“Desire for sex is based on a complex interaction of many things affecting intimacy, including physical and emotional well-being, experiences, beliefs, lifestyle, and your current relationship. If you’re experiencing a problem in any of these areas, it can affect your desire for sex”.5

In Libido the JH note:

“Libido, otherwise known as your sexual ‘drive’ or ‘desire’ varies from woman to woman and there is no right or wrong level.

It is normal for desire to fluctuate perhaps due to changes in hormone levels, medication, your health, lifestyle changes and what’s happening in your relationship and in your life. If your libido level worries you there are a number of things you can do to improve desire. Finding a solution to the problem involves determining what seems to affect your libido and trying strategies to deal with this”.6

In Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause the AMS explain:

“Hormones are rarely the only factor involved in desire-arousal problems and other factors need to be identified and addressed. These might include relationship issues, psychological factors, side effects of common medications, such as antidepressants, or health issues such as diabetes. Women often say that the physical changes that occur with ageing and/or menopause make them feel more self-conscious about their body, particularly in relation to sex. Other changes in a woman’s life, such as a partner’s midlife issues (including erectile dysfunction), teenagers in the house or leaving home, and parents dying or requiring care will affect sexual function”.7

Common or Not

How common is low libido?

The AMS note:

“Low libido is the most common sexual concern reported by women and is often inseparable from diminished capacity to become aroused”.8

Fluctuations

Can libido fluctuate?

In Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Overview the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

“Women’s sexual desires naturally fluctuate over the years. Highs and lows commonly coincide with the beginning or end of a relationship or with major life changes, such as pregnancy, menopause or illness. Some medications used for mood disorders also can cause low sex drive in women”.9

Menopause

Is there an association between menopause and libido?

In Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Causes: Hormone Changes the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

Libido“Changes in your hormone levels may alter your desire for sex. This can occur during:

  • Menopause. Estrogen levels drop during the transition to menopause. This can make you less interested in sex and cause dry vaginal tissues, resulting in painful or uncomfortable sex. Although many women still have satisfying sex during menopause and beyond, some experience a lagging libido during this hormonal change”.10

Treatment

How may low libido be treated?

In Low Sex Drive In Women: Diagnosis & Treatment – Treatment the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

Sexual Health and Libido“Most women benefit from a treatment approach aimed at the many causes behind this condition. Recommendations may include sex education, counseling, and sometimes medication and hormone therapy”.11

Menopausal Hormone Therapy

Is menopausal hormone therapy used to treat low libido?

In Looking After Yourself: Sex and Relationships – Managing Low Libido the JH note:

“If you are concerned about having low libido, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. They might suggest different options to improve the way you feel about sex. For example, a trial of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), or vaginal moisturisers, lubricants or oestrogen to improve vaginal dryness”.12

Testosterone

Is testosterone used to treat low libido?

In Low Sex Drive In Women: Diagnosis & Treatment – Treatment the Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

  • “Testosterone. The male hormone testosterone plays an important role in female sexual function, even though testosterone occurs in much lower amounts in women. Testosterone isn’t approved by the FDA for sexual dysfunction in women, but sometimes it’s prescribed off-label to help lift a lagging libido. The use of testosterone in women is controversial. Taking it can cause acne, excess body hair, and mood or personality changes”.13

BMS Statement on Testosterone, 02 March 2023

What does the BMS Statement on Testosterone, 02 March 2023, elaborate on about the use of testosterone to treat low libido?

The BMS Statement on Testosterone elaborates on:

“The current controversy surrounding testosterone treatment is causing confusion amongst women and healthcare professionals alike. British Menopause Society guidance follows NICE NG23 which recommends that testosterone is used for low libido after other options have been exhausted.

Levels of testosterone in women decline between the ages of 20 and 40. By menopause the levels have plateaued out and are stable. Testosterone is produced by the adrenal glands and the ovaries in peri and post-menopausal women. Testosterone is not the third component of HRT and promoting misinformation is creating unrealistic expectations for women, some of whom have challenging social circumstances. Managing women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, necessitates a biopsychosocial approach. It is important to consider contributory factors which include vulvovaginal atrophy and relationship issues”.14

Testosterone Links

Where may I find Links related to testosterone?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Testosterone Links

Health Care Provider

What if I have low libido?

If you have low libido, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

In Libido: Managing & Treating Low Libido – Seek Advice the JH elaborate on:

“It is better for your relationship and future sexual experiences to discuss your feelings of low libido. You may want to seek advice from your doctor, with your partner if appropriate. Some of the following may help:

  • Treatment for any underlying illness or medical condition
  • Lifestyle changes and stress management
  • Herbal remedies (see an accredited naturopath)
  • Hormone therapy (if appropriate)
  • Medication changes
  • Antidepressants (certain antidepressants may be more suitable, others can reduce libido)
  • Stress management
  • Couples counselling
  • Counselling with a therapist who specialised in sexual concerns”.15

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Sexual Health and Libido?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Sexual Health and Libido?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. Advancing Menopause Care In Australia: Barriers and Opportunities – The Role of Testosterone Treatment
  2. Askearlymenopause.org [Ask EM] [+ Video: What Is Early Menopause?]
  3. BMS Statement on Testosterone [British Menopause Society]
  4. BMS TV: Menopause Explained
  5. BMS TV: Testosterone Explained
  6. Coalition Issues International Consensus on Testosterone Treatment for Women
  7. Don’t Believe the Hype. Menopausal Women Don’t All Need To Check – or Increase – Their Testosterone Levels
  8. Dr Louise Newson: The Truth About the Menopause & HRT
  9. Early Menopause: Women’s Experiences
  10. FAQs: When Sex Is Painful
  11. Global Consensus Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women
  12. How Do I Deal With Vaginal Atrophy? — Ask Dr Jean
  13. International Society for Sexual Medicine: Public
  14. International Society for Sexual Medicine: Sexual Health Topics
  15. International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health
  16. International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health: Find A Provider
  17. Intimate Partner Violence
  18. Is There An Equivalent of Viagra for Women?
  19. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Sexual Wellbeing and Intimacy During and After Menopause [+ Video: Menopause Is the End of Your Sex Life]
  20. Let’s Talk Low Libido
  21. Libido
  22. Libido: Managing & Treating Low Libido
  23. Libido: The Highs and Lows of Midlife
  24. Libido: What Affects Your Libido?
  25. Looking After Yourself
  26. Looking After Yourself: Managing & Treating Low Libido – Testosterone Therapy [+ Video: Professor Susan Davis]
  27. Loss of Libido (Reduced Sex Drive)
  28. Loss of Libido (Reduced Sex Drive): Where To Get Help and Advice
  29. Low Sex Drive In Women: Diagnosis & Treatment
  30. Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes
  31. Lubricant Alternatives: What To Use and What To Avoid
  32. Many Older Women Have Active Sex Lives, But Menopause Can Interfere
  33. Menopause
  34. Menopause
  35. Menopause & Herbs: Low Libido (Sex Drive)
  36. Menopause Map: Downloadable Resources – My Personal Path Print Tools: Questions for Your Health Care Provider
  37. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 2. Talking To Your GP About Menopause
  38. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit Video Series: Common Conditions Associated With Menopause and Midlife
  39. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit: A Woman’s Empowerment Guide
  40. Menopause Ruining Your Sex Life?
  41. Menopause Symptoms: Mayo Clinic Expert Outlines Hormone and Nonhormonal Therapies
  42. Menopause Treatments: What Works, What Doesn’t
  43. Menopause What Are the Symptoms?
  44. Menopause: Understanding the Changes and Finding Relief | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 256
  45. Mymenoplan.org [My Menoplan, United States]
  46. Natural Therapies & Supplements
  47. Navigating Menopause Together: How Partners Can Help
  48. Navigating Menopause: Expert Insights and Solutions | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 245
  49. Nonhormone Treatments for Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
  50. Nonhormone Treatments for Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
  51. Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual HealthSexual Health and Libido
  52. Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: Guide To Sexual Health Providers
  53. Prosayla Supported By ISSWSH [International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health]
  54. Relationships
  55. Relationships: Relationships & Libido
  56. Relationships: Relationships & Painful Sex
  57. Sex & Intimacy After Cancer
  58. Sex & Sexual Health
  59. Sex and Menopause: Treatment for Symptoms
  60. Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause: Testosterone
  61. Sexual Functioning In 4,418 Postmenopausal Women Participating In UKCTOCS: A Qualitative Free-Text Analysis [United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening]
  62. Sexual Health
  63. Sexual Health Conditions
  64. Sexuality: Management & Treatment of Sexual Problems
  65. Steps Your Partner Can Take
  66. Supporting A Loved One Through Menopause
  67. Symptoms of Low Testosterone In Women (and Reasons Why It Might Be Low)
  68. Testosterone Replacement In Menopause: 2. What Is Its Role In Women?
  69. Testosterone Therapy In Women: Does It Boost Sex Drive?
  70. Testosterone Therapy for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSSD) [Video]
  71. Testosterone Use for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder In Postmenopausal Women
  72. Testosterone for Women: Why Use Testosterone?
  73. Therapy for the Effects of Menopause
  74. The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
  75. Tips To Help Manage Menopause Symptoms
  76. Top Tips for Talking To Your Doctor
  77. Urogenital Problems
  78. Using Natural Therapies In the Menopause Transition – Webinar
  79. Vaginal & Vulval Pain: Know the Different Causes and When To Seek Help
  80. Vaginal Dryness
  81. Vaginal Dryness
  82. Vaginal Dryness After Menopause: How To Treat It?
  83. Vaginal Dryness: What To Do About It
  84. Vaginal Oestrogen
  85. Video Series-2022: Discussing Sexual Health Concerns With Your Health Care Professional
  86. Video Series-2022: Perimenopause, Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions
  87. Video Series-2023: NAMS 2023 Nonhormone Therapies Position Statement for Bothersome Menopause Symptoms
  88. Video Series-2023: New FDA-Approved Nonhormone Option for the Treatment of Hot Flashes
  89. Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: Is Testosterone the Answer To Low Libido?
  90. Violence Prevention: Sexual Violence [+ Video: What Is Sexual Violence?]
  91. Vulva & Vaginal Irritation: Management & Treatment [+Video]
  92. Webinars: Previous – Pay Attention on Your Way In! The Vulva Is An Important Organ Too
  93. Webinars: Previous – Sexual Health Issues in Menopause
  94. “We’re Just Tired”: Influences on Sexual Activity Among Male-Partnered Women In Midlife; A Mixed Method Study
  95. What Everyone Should Know About Menopause Symptoms
  96. What Happens If A Woman Takes Viagra?
  97. What Is Vulvodynia?
  98. Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? Episode 3: Dr Annice Mukherjee: Your Essential Menopause Toolkit
  99. Women’s Sexual Health: Talking About Your Sexual Needs
  100. Yes, You Can Have Better Sex In Midlife and In the Years Beyond

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Libido. Last Updated: 26 August 2023 | Topic Updated: 02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/libido Accessed: 21 November 2023
  2. Libido. Last Updated: 26 August 2023 | Topic Updated: 02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/libido Accessed: 21 November 2023
  3. Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause. Content Created March 2021. Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/722-sexual-difficulties-in-the-menopause Accessed: 21 November 2023
  4. Libido: What Is Libido? Last Updated: 26 August 2023 | Topic Updated: 02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/libido Accessed: 21 November 2023
  5. Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Causes. 24 February 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554 Accessed: 21 November 2023
  6. Libido. Last Updated: 26 August 2023 | Topic Updated: 02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/libido Accessed: 21 November 2023
  7. Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause. Content Created March 2021. Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/722-sexual-difficulties-in-the-menopause Accessed: 21 November 2023
  8. Sexual Difficulties In the Menopause. Content Created March 2021. Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/722-sexual-difficulties-in-the-menopause Accessed: 21 November 2023
  9. Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Overview. 24 February 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554 Accessed: 21 November 2023
  10. Low Sex Drive In Women: Symptoms & Causes – Causes: Hormone Changes. 24 February 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554 Accessed: 21 November 2023
  11. Low Sex Drive In Women: Diagnosis & Treatment – Treatment: Hormone Therapy. 24 February 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374561 Accessed: 21 November 2023
  12. Looking After Yourself: Sex and Relationships – Managing Low Libido. Last Updated: 04 September 2023 | Topic Updated: 19 August 2022. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/looking-after-yourself#sex-and-relationships Accessed: 21 November 2023
  13. Low Sex Drive In Women: Diagnosis & Treatment – Treatment. 24 February 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374561 Accessed: 21 November 2023
  14. BMS Statement on Testosterone. 01 March 2023. British Menopause Society https://thebms.org.uk/2023/03/bms-statement-on-testosterone/ Accessed: 21 November 2023
  15. Libido: Managing & Treating Low Libido – Seek Advice. Last Updated: 26 August 2023 | Topic Updated: 02 December 2013. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/libido Accessed: 21 November 2023
Topic Last Updated: 21 November 2023 – Topic Last Reviewed: 21 November 2023

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