Understanding Low Libido
Compassionate, evidence-based support for desire, comfort, and connection at every stage.
Changes in sexual desire are common and highly individual. For some, low libido is temporary; for others, it becomes distressing and affects relationships or self-confidence. At Westside Women's Health, we take a whole-person approach that considers hormones, health conditions, medications, stress, sleep, and relationship dynamics.
Fast Facts About Low Libido
Desire naturally fluctuates across life stages
Perimenopause and menopause can influence libido via hormonal shifts
Medications (e.g., some antidepressants) may reduce desire
Pain with sex, sleep issues, and stress commonly contribute
Common Contributors
- Hormonal changes (perimenopause/menopause, thyroid issues)
- Vaginal dryness or pain with intercourse
- Medications (certain antidepressants, antihypertensives)
- Chronic stress, mood changes, or poor sleep
- Relationship factors and body-image concerns
Why It Matters
Sexual well-being is part of overall health. When desire decreases and becomes distressing, it can strain intimacy and quality of life. Identifying treatable contributors often restores comfort and confidence without forcing a one-size-fits-all definition of "normal."
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Assessment starts with a thoughtful conversation about symptoms, timeline, distress, medical history, and relationship context. We review medications, sleep, mood, and pain, and may check targeted labs (e.g., thyroid). For menopausal symptoms, we evaluate vaginal health and overall hormone status to guide options.
Low Libido vs. Normal Variation
Low Libido (Distressing)
- Persistent decrease in desire with personal distress
- Often paired with pain, dryness, sleep or mood changes
- Interferes with intimacy or self-image
- Benefits from targeted evaluation and treatment
Normal Variation
- Desire fluctuates without ongoing distress
- No significant pain or functional impact
- Aligned with life context (stress, schedule)
- Usually improves with time and self-care
Treatment Options
Plans are individualized and may include addressing pain or dryness (vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, or vaginal estrogen where appropriate), optimizing sleep and mood, reviewing and adjusting medications, pelvic floor physical therapy, and counseling or sex therapy for relational factors. For select patients, prescription options targeting desire may be considered after evaluation. Our goal is comfortable, satisfying intimacy that reflects your values and preferences.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- ✓Symptom timeline and what feels most bothersome
- ✓List of medications/supplements (include start dates)
- ✓Notes on sleep, stress, and mood
- ✓Questions or goals you'd like to discuss
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is low libido a normal part of menopause?
Many experience shifts in desire during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal changes, sleep disruption, and vaginal dryness. Normal fluctuation is common, but if it becomes distressing, evaluation can help identify treatable contributors.
2Which medications can affect desire?
Some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, and other drugs may reduce libido. Never stop a medication on your own—bring your list so we can discuss options with you and your prescribing clinician.
3What if sex is painful?
Pain can suppress desire. Treating dryness or pelvic floor issues often improves comfort and interest. Options may include lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, vaginal estrogen (when appropriate), and pelvic floor physical therapy.
4Are there prescription treatments for low libido?
There are prescription options for specific scenarios after clinical evaluation. We start with addressing underlying contributors and discuss benefits, risks, and fit with your health goals.
5Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Improving sleep, managing stress, regular physical activity, open communication with your partner, and scheduling protected time for intimacy can all support desire. Counseling or sex therapy may help when relational patterns play a role.
Personalized Care for Sexual Well-Being
If changes in desire are affecting your life or relationships, we're here to help with a plan that addresses comfort, connection, and confidence.
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