Not in the mood? Many women going through menopause can relate. The same hormonal changes that cause menopause may contribute to a low libido. While there is no “blue pill” for women just yet, lifestyle changes and even specific nutrients can make a world of difference. Below, we go over a few suggestions worth considering.
What Causes a Low Libido?
Besides hormonal changes, the use of certain medications including birth control pills, beta-blockers, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are used to treat depression, can reduce a woman’s sex drive. Even without SSRI treatment, depression itself can reduce or eliminate desire, and treatment with other types of antidepressants can sometimes help.
Testosterone May Help Enhance Female Sex Drive
A recent study revealed a benefit for testosterone-use in women undergoing treatment with SSRIs or SNRIs (serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).1 Although sexual self-rating scale scores were no different at the end of the study between the placebo group and women taking testosterone, more sexual satisfaction was reported in the latter.1
Estradiol is Necessary for a Healthy Sex Drive
While testosterone has long been associated with sexual interest, a recent study emphasized the importance of estradiol, a form of estrogen.2 It linked the peak of estradiol levels that occurs at the middle of a woman’s menstrual cycle with the highest level of sexual desire. The authors of the study did not find significant effects for testosterone.
Cordyceps and Maca Support Sexual Health
Cordyceps is a mushroom extract that supports sex hormone levels and promotes their downstream flow. The herb maca enhances libido and sexual pleasure. These herbs have been traditionally used to support a healthy libido and research confirms their benefits. In a crossover study of postmenopausal women, 3.5 grams of maca taken daily for 6 weeks reduced sexual dysfunction, independent of any of its hormone-like actions.3
BHRT Can Reawaken Sexual Interest
The initiation of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) during menopause can help reawaken desire. Evaluation by a specialist in hormone therapy, including blood testing for hormone levels, is essential to receive the right hormones at the right dose. Looking for a doctor? Consider our Forever Health Physician Network. We have a team of health practitioners that can help restore your hormones.
The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. You should not stop taking any medication without first consulting your physician.
Not in the mood? Many women going through menopause can relate. The same hormonal changes that cause menopause may contribute to a low libido. While there is no “blue pill” for women just yet, lifestyle changes and even specific nutrients can make a world of difference. Below, we go over a few suggestions worth considering.