The Real Reason You're Not in the Mood for Sex
Are you finding yourself uninterested in intimacy lately, wondering why you're just not in the mood? It might not be as straightforward as you think, especially during menopause. From perimenopause to postmenopause, hormonal shifts play a significant role in how we experience desire. Estrogen and progesterone levels decline, impacting libido and vaginal health. But there's more to the story than just hormones.
Beyond the biological changes, our busy, stressful lives also take a toll. Juggling work, family, and personal responsibilities can leave us depleted, both physically and mentally. Stress also triggers cortisol production, disrupting our body's natural balance even further and reducing our libido. Let's face it, when our minds are preoccupied with to-do lists and worries, it's no wonder that intimacy takes a back seat.
How does menopause affect libido?
During the menopause transition, our hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone undergo significant changes that can directly impact our sexual health and libido.
Estrogen is crucial for maintaining vaginal lubrication and enhancing blood flow to the genitals, which are key for sexual arousal and pleasure. As estrogen levels decrease, many women experience vaginal dryness, reduced sensitivity, and discomfort during sex, which, understanably, can lead to a decreased interest in intimacy. While progesterone's main role is regulating the menstrual cycle, its decline during perimenopause and menopause often contributes to mood swings and irritability, indirectly affecting our libido.
Testosterone, often associated with men, is also found in women and plays a crucial role in sexual desire by helping enhance sexual arousal and increasing sensitivity. The decline in testosterone from perimenopause to postmenopause can contribute to changes not only in libido and sexual arousal but also in our overall vitality.
Add to this the fact that you may be experiencing a variety of perimenopause and menopause symptoms like hot flushes, headaches, and fatigue, which can really impact our desire for intimacy, which is completely normal. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and find ways to manage them that work for you.
How do I get my libido back during menopause?
When you're feeling like you have no sex drive whatsoever, it can be extremely frustrating, but there are ways to help spark that desire again.
So, where do you start? Begin by prioritising daily stress management: practicing deep breathing techniques, which can quickly calm your nervous system; engaging in regular exercise releases feel-good endorphins, boosting our mood and reducing stress. Additionally, focus on self-care practices that make you feel good, whether it's yoga, meditation, or simply taking time for yourself.
Incorporate adaptogens into your daily routine. These elite herbal medicines are well-researched for their ability to help the body adapt to stress, promoting a sense of calm and balance. Two of the most effective are Korean Ginseng and Ashwagandha, both found in our Libido supplement and clinically studied for their ability to reduce stress and improve sexual arousal in menopausal women.
Make time for activities that enhance intimacy and connection with your partner, such as sensual massages or meaningful conversations. Communicating openly about your feelings and needs can relieve pressure related to intimacy and reassure them that changes in your libido are in no way reflective of the strength of your relationship.
If vaginal dryness is causing discomfort, consider using a vaginal moisturiser or lubricant. However, it's important to choose a product that doesn't contain irritants, as these can exacerbate vaginal irritation rather than alleviate it.
Will my libido return after menopause?
Postmenopause, libido can still fluctuate due to hormonal changes, but it's not uncommon for women to experience a resurgence in sexual desire. Factors like improved mood, reduced stress, and communication with your partner can all contribute to reigniting sexual interest. In addition, many of the symptoms you experienced in perimenopause and menopause will have eased, making life in general feel a lot more balanced.
It's important to remember that as we age, changes in our sex drive are a natural part of life. However, if persistent low libido is getting you down and affecting your relationship, consider speaking with your doctor or menopause specialist to explore potential treatments that could offer relief.
Discover our range of evidence-based supplements, developed with mind and body nutrients to support your body and your needs before, during, and after this transitionary life stage.
This article has been reviewed by our expert advisory team.
