Loss of sexual desire can feel personal and confusing. For many women it's temporary, but for others it becomes persistent and stressful. This page cuts through the noise—what commonly causes low libido, simple fixes you can try today, and medical options for women who need more help.
Physical causes are common. Hormone changes (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid issues), chronic pain or illness, fatigue, and some medications can reduce desire. Antidepressants and some other prescription drugs often blunt libido — our article “Trazodone and Sexual Side Effects” explains how certain meds affect sex drive and what to ask your doctor. Mental health matters too: stress, anxiety, and depression lower interest. Relationship issues—poor communication, unresolved conflict, or past trauma—also play a big role.
Start with basics you control. Improve sleep, cut back on heavy drinking, and move your body—regular exercise boosts mood and blood flow. Try scheduling intimate time if life is busy; pressure-free windows can reduce anxiety around sex. Mindfulness or breathing exercises before sex help some women reconnect with physical sensation.
Review medicines with your clinician. If an antidepressant or other drug seems to be the cause, a dose change or switching meds may help. Don’t stop prescriptions on your own. Pelvic floor work (simple kegel routines) and pelvic physiotherapy can increase sensation and reduce pain during sex.
Some treatments target specific conditions. For premenopausal women with diagnosed hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), two FDA-approved options exist: flibanserin (Addyi) — a daily pill — and bremelanotide (Vyleesi) — an on-demand injection. Both have side effects and rules (for example, Addyi shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol). Topical or low-dose testosterone is sometimes used off-label for women but needs careful monitoring.
Talk with a clinician if low desire lasts months, causes distress, or follows a new medication. Ask for hormone checks, review of current drugs, and a referral to a sexual health or pelvic pain specialist if needed. Couples counseling or sex therapy is often very effective when relationship factors are involved.
Want more reading? Check our related guides like “Trazodone and Sexual Side Effects” for medication effects and “Clomid Explained” if fertility or hormones are part of your story. If you’re unsure where to start, your primary care doctor or gynecologist can help create a safe, practical plan. Small changes often make a big difference—don’t let confusion stop you from getting care.
Mar, 22 2024
In 2015, the FDA approved Flibanserin (Addyi) for treating female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) in premenopausal women. This guide delves into how Addyi, described as 'female Viagra', works, its benefits, side effects, and the need for more inclusive research. Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), another FSIAD medication, is also discussed alongside the off-label use of Viagra in women.