Loss of libido in women explained

Loss of libido essentially means having fewer sexual thoughts, slowed down arousal, longer time to climax, and reluctance to initiate sex. Almost 15% of men and 30% of women experience loss of libido at some point in time. Reasons range from the physiological to psychological. While loss of libido is normal and treatable, lack of information only aggravates the issue. Breaking the taboo and talking about it, is the first step towards a healthier, more pleasurable sex life and today we're telling you the reasons behind this loss of libido and what you can do to fight it. Alcoholism and drug abuse It is a misconception that alcohol makes sexual performance better. In fact, women usually complain about loss of desire after alcohol ingestion over long periods of time. Certain prescription drugs like anti depressants also have a negative effect on the libido. They may affect arousal also the ability to climax for the period they are being taken. Major illness Hormonal imbalance due to a major illness is another factor that contributes to the loss of libido in women. Kidney disease may cause nerve damage too and also hormonal imbalance, which may affect your sex drive. Also, diabetes and the nerve damage associated with it may be a reason behind lowered sex drive. Pregnancy and childbirth Changes in hormone levels when a woman is pregnant can cause a temporary change in her desire for sex. After childbirth post-baby hormonal changes or the trauma of giving birth itself can also cause a loss of libido. Sex after childbirth may be difficult and painful for women. Injury to the perineum or surgical cuts (episiotomy) during childbirth can also cause sexual dysfunction. Some women experience a prolonged loss of sexual desire after giving birth, which may be associated with postnatal depression, which needs to be treated medically. Menopause Loss of libido during menopause is common, affecting as many as 20 to 40 percent of women. Reductions in the levels of three major hormones that happen during menopause can contribute to the reduction of sexual drive and energy. The levels of Estrogen that plays a vital role in female sexuality by increasing sensations, along with Progesterone, Androgens/ Testosterone are reduced therefore causing loss of libido. Depression and anxiety Two major causes behind a loss of libido, depression and anxiety are no trivial concerns. Depressed people usually feel withdrawn. They don't feel they can raise enough energy to pursue their normal routine. From a clinical point of view, however, it's clear that a depressive illness tends to affect all the bodily systems, dislocating them and often slowing them down. The medications that are prescribed to combat these conditions also affect a woman's libido negatively. Stress When you react to stress, your body goes through a series of changes. It releases hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine (or adrenaline) in response. If your stress response isn't reversed, it can contribute to a condition known as chronic stress, and can also interfere with the hormones involved in your sexual response. This results in a low libido. Treatment An effective solution for the loss of libido, identifying its triggers is an important first step. Visit the doctor to ensure that the low sex drive is not due to a medical problem. Some medical problems are difficult to spot therefore an expert opinion is a must. Visiting a psychologist or even a sex therapist to help you examine the underlying problems in your life and sexuality can also be considered. Improve interpersonal relationship with your partner. Bring romance, love and affection in your love life. Re-kindle the spark!