Low libido and solutions after menopause
During menopause, people may experience a fall in libido or sex drive. Medical treatments, counseling, and lifestyle changes may help increase a person’s sex drive during menopause. The medical name for low libido is hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). It is a common experience among females, especially around menopause. In 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source identified HSDD as one of 20 high priority diseases that need focused attention. Usually, a decline in estrogen levels begins when a person is in their 40s. Over the next 2–8 years Trusted Source, periods may become less regular and then stop completely. The time before menopause is called perimenopause. Menopause is when a person has had no menstruation for 12 months. Around menopause, a number of symptoms can occur, such as hot flashes. Other changes include a thinning of the vaginal wall, known as vaginal atrophy, and vaginal dryness. These and other factors can contribute to a fall in libido or sex drive and pain during sex. Vaginal atrophy and dryness do not improve over time, but treatment can help manage them. In this article, we look at how menopause might affect someone’s sex drive and some ways to enhance libido. Sex and gender Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more. Menopause and libido Menopause is when a female stops having her period permanently, but it affects more than the menstrual cycle. Menopause can cause physical and emotional changes that affect a person’s life, including their sex life. Depression can also affect libido. Depression is common among females in mid-life and around menopause, but researchers have not found a direct link between the two. Each of these can affect a person’s quality of life and relationships. Libido refers to sexual interest and sexual enjoyment. Doctors consider a low libido an aspect of sexual dysfunction. Other causes of low libido include issues of arousal, desire, orgasm, and pain. Libido varies among individuals. Links between low libido and its possible causes after menopause are complex. A person should work with a doctor to address what may be causing low libido for them. Why does libido change around menopause? Various changes and lifestyle factors can affectTrusted Source a person’s sex life around and after menopause. Not all of them relate directly to menopause. Experts have not linkedTrusted Source a low libido directly with hormonal changes, but they may contribute to hot flashes and other factors that can play a role. Physical effects on sex organs Physical changes can contribute to a lower sex drive. Vaginal atrophy is the medical name for the vagina becoming drier and its walls thinner. These physical changes may include the following: The tissues of the vagina and labia become thinner and less sensitive to sexual stimulation.Vaginal lubrication decreases, leading to vaginal dryness. Sex may be uncomfortable or painful.Dyspareunia may occur. With dyspareunia, persistent or recurrent genital pain happens before, during, or after intercourse.Reduced blood flow may affect overall arousal. Sex may be less enjoyable, and it may be harder to have an orgasm.Around 27–60%Trusted Source of people report vaginal dryness and pain. Mental health Fluctuating hormone levels can also affect a person’s mental health. In turn, this can affect libido. High levels of stress can occur due to life’s daily needs. A person may be juggling work, parenting, and caring for older parents. The changes in hormone levels can lead to irritability or depression, and dealing with everyday stress may be challenging. Relationship issues and body image can also affect mental well-being and libido. Effect of other symptoms Symptoms associated with menopause may affect a person’s sex drive. Examples include:Hot flashesNight sweats Other factors Other factors that can dampen libido around menopause include: Anyone with concerns about a fall in libido can speak with a doctor. They may be able to offer treatment. Various measures may help increase libido. They include medical treatments, lifestyle tips, and home remedies. Medical treatmentsMedical treatments can help manageTrusted Source factors that contribute to low libido, such as vaginal dryness, night sweats, and anxiety. Some treatments may address libido directly. In trials, around 25% of people who used this drug experienced an increase in sexual desire, compared with 17% who took a placebo. In addition, around 35% noted a reduction in other distress factors relating to sex, compared with 31% after using a placebo. It appears to improve sexual desire and reduce related issues by activating a part of the nervous system known as melancortin receptors. However, experts do not know precisely how it works. A person will need to inject it at least 45 minutes before sexual activity. Individuals can decide when to take it depending on how long they find the effects to last. People should not use more than one dose in 24 hours or more than eight doses per month. Side effects include a rise in blood pressure, and it is not suitable for those with a history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease. Lubricants An over-the-counter lubricant can reduce discomfort during sex. Over-the-counter moisturizers can help reduce dryness. A person will need to use it every few days. Note that non-water-soluble and silicone-based lubricants can break down condoms used to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Which lubricants are best for menopause dryness?Hormonal and nonhormonal pillsEstrogen pills, creams, or vaginal rings can help address vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy. They require a prescription. Hormone therapy can help with hot flashes and mood changes. Ospemifene is a nonhormonal treatment for vaginal dryness and atrophy. Counseling Counseling can help manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges that occur during menopause. Couples therapy can help people address issues affecting their relationship, whether or not they are directly related to sex. It may also help them speak openly about how they feel. Treatment for other conditions Around the same age as menopause, the risk of various other health issues increases, such…