What to do about Low Libido?

In the spirit of the month of Love, let's talk about Libido!

It is something that can wax and wane, especially in the high pressure society we are all live in. And that is normal. Low libido affects almost 50% of women and 30% of men (and it's on the rise).

It is very multifactorial, and as much as the pharmaceutical industry wants you to think it's a 'little blue pill' issue, it's really not. While there are of course physical reasons for low libido, there are almost always mental/emotional components that need to be dealt with concomitantly.

So if we were working up a complaint of low libido, first we'd want to clarify what exactly is meant by low libido.. is it exhaustion or a lack of drive to be intimate? If we are talking to a male, trouble getting or maintaining an erection? Or for a female - is there pain? Difficulty with lubrication?

I do like to get bloodwork - to look at your adrenal and thyroid hormones, sex hormones, inflammation and cardiovascular health.

Although hormones get blamed more than I would like them to, it is important to get a picture of any that could be high or low. For males, low testosterone can be correlated with a diminished drive, while with females it's more likely low estrogen. Hypothyroidism and excessive stress are common reasons as well.

Once, we've done a work up for hormonal and physical causes, we need to look at the other intersecting pieces.

Some questions to ask yourself: How do I feel about my body? Do I feel sexy? Is sex painful? Is sex enjoyable? Do you and your partner discuss sex and what is pleasurable?

It can also be helpful to do a deep dive into your beliefs and prior education on sex and sexuality, either through journalling, or with a counsellor. What were you taught about sex growing up? Is it shameful? Is it meant to be enjoyed by both partners? Who should initiate?

With this multifactorial approach - mind and body, and communication with your partner, there is no reason that libido should decrease with age/menopause etc.

And always, I am here if this is something you feel you are struggling with!

Xoxo,

Dr. B