In the real world of sex, getting in the mood isn’t as easy as it seems in the movies (like most things in life). Maybe your once-exciting sex life has petered out, or maybe it’s just been a slow fade that’s hard to pinpoint. Either way, it can be helpful to know how to increase a woman’s libido and get back on track.
First of all, a decrease in libido doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with your relationship. Sometimes you may be in a great relationship and happy with your life, but you may wonder why your libido has decreased. It’s not a topic that’s often publicly discussed, but it’s actually quite common. If you’re experiencing a decrease in libido, know that it’s completely normal, healthy, and okay. Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on and explore ways to rekindle that spark.
Lauren Zielinski, MSN, CNM
Lauren Zielinski is a certified nurse-midwife with over 11 years of experience in the fields of women’s health and childbirth. She studied medicine at the University of Colorado Denver, where she focused on community health and birth center work.
What is “normal” when it comes to my sex drive?
We are all unique and so is our libido. Libido varies from person to person and is influenced by many factors, including age, hormones, and relationship dynamics. Therefore, what is considered “normal” depends on how you feel about your own libido. It’s important to remember that low libido is only a problem if it causes stress, affects your quality of life, or is at odds with your partner’s desires.
Common causes of low libido
In many cases, your libido may not be “low” in a clinical sense, but simply out of sync with your partner’s. This is where communication, compromise, and couples therapy can help. Want to learn more about what’s affecting your libido and how you can increase it? Let’s take a look.
Pharmaceuticals
Certain medications can have surprising effects on your libido. The most well-known are antidepressants, especially SSRIs (such as Zoloft, Prozac, and Lexapro), and hormonal contraceptives like the pill, ring, patch, and injection. These medications change hormones and can decrease your libido. Not everyone experiences this, but if you notice any changes, it’s worth talking to your healthcare provider.
Pro Tip: Hormonal IUDs (such as Mirena or Skyra) and copper IUDs are less likely to affect your libido, so they may be worth considering if you’re looking for an alternative.
What it does: If you think the medication you’re taking is affecting your libido, don’t make any changes on your own – discuss your concerns with your doctor. Adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication may make a big difference. The key is to find the right balance that works for your body and needs.
Mental Health
Your mental health is deeply intertwined with your libido. Depression, anxiety, and other mental conditions can sap your energy and make you feel less connected to your partner. Dr. Frederick K. GoodwinA well-known psychiatric expert explains, “The whole process of sexual arousal begins with the ability to anticipate pleasure, and in depression this is lost.”
What it does: Getting back on track may require therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Communicating openly with your partner about your needs and expectations can help take some of the pressure off and make you feel more confident as you work toward improving your mental and sexual health.
stress
Stress is another big factor in lowering your libido, and it’s something we all have to deal with. When we feel stressed, our body goes into “fight or flight” mode, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and throwing our sex hormones off balance. It’s like our body is saying, “Now is not the time for pleasure. There are bigger things to worry about.”
What it does: If stress is negatively impacting your libido, it’s time to get serious about self-care. Drop some non-essential commitments, make time for yourself, and remember that it’s okay to say no. If you feel good, you’re more likely to feel good.
Tips and tricks to increase female libido
turmeric
In terms of flavor and functional health, turmeric is one of the best spices. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to boost testosterone levels, a key hormone that boosts libido in both men and women. Whether you add it to your cooking (we’re crazy about golden milk) or take it as a supplement, turmeric can help add some heat.
Pro Tip: Make sure your turmeric supplement contains at least 1000 mg of turmeric, as well as black pepper, which helps with the absorption of curcumin.
exercise
Exercise is medicine, and that applies to your libido too. Regular exercise improves your heart function, blood flow, and overall health, all of which translate to a healthier libido. You don’t have to be a fitness freak to reap the benefits; even 30 minutes of exercise each day can help. Plus, having sex after a workout can lead to more intense orgasms due to increased blood flow.
read more: Trainer recommends low-impact exercise—follow her weekly workout routine
Breaking Bad Habits
Smoking, excessive drinking, and recreational drugs can all disrupt sleep, circulation, and brain function, and inhibit your libido. If you indulge in these habits, consider cutting back or quitting altogether. You may be surprised at how much more energetic and vital you feel, in and out of the bedroom.
summary
Your libido is an important part of your overall health and it’s worth taking the time to nurture it. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a health care professional or sex therapist for more personalized advice. Remember that sex is a natural and beautiful part of life and everyone has the right to feel comfortable and fulfilled within themselves. So, embrace the journey and enjoy it!
Read more about how to nurture your sexual health:
Post updated on January 16, 2024
Post updated on July 13, 2024
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
