If you feel like you’ve lost your libido, there’s a lot to consider. Sex drive and the things that affect it are complicated, says women’s health expert Holly Thacker, MD.It is also dependent on personal relationships. Add into these the biological need to reproduce, which naturally will diminish to some degree as we all age. Medical problems, hormonal differences, marital problems, new medications can all take a toll on our desire.
Here’s the good news: The desire for sex, in some ways, is like exercise. You might not feel like doing it but once you do, you find you enjoy it and wish to do more. When I have this conversation with women I see in my practice, they feel relieved. Also, your doctor can work with you to address any vaginal dryness or pain that may be an issue. There are hormonal and non-hormonal remedies available.
What’s important is not to ignore any issues you have with sex drive but to realize there are ways you can get help. It can have many benefits for partners, including emotional intimacy.