How to Survive Low Libido in Women
How to Survive Low Libido in Women
Many couples deal with the problem of low libido at some time during the relationship. However, the popular belief is that it is a male only problem. WRONG! This misconception is compounded by the plethora of ED commercials that seem to flood the airwaves on an hourly basis. Both genders struggle with low libido and it can have a profound impact on a couple’s relationship. Let’s look at some causes of low libido in women and explore some options for overcoming this nagging problem.
According to WebMD.com, the cause of low libido in women can vary greatly. They can range from emotional problems such as stress and lack of desire, to physical problems such as inability to reach climax, or pain during sexual intercourse. Many women with low libido struggle with depression. Another problem that can compound the matter is that some medications for depression can actually make a woman’s desire for sex even lower. Make sure you talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about your sexual desire if you are taking any of these medications. For information on other possible causes for low libido in women check out “Lack of Sex Drive in Women”, by Dr. David Delvin and Christine Webber at netdoctor.co.uk
There are a variety of ways women can address her low libido. The use of testosterone has shown some success, but the results reportedly have been mixed and more data is needed. The use of suction and non-suction vibrators has also had some success in treating a women’s lack of sexual desire. Be cautious, however, as the cost can vary greatly for the suction device. The use of “desire creams” is another avenue for women who struggle with this problem. The creams are said to produce a tingling sensation for the clitoris. Erection drugs that treat ED in men have also been tested on some women, but have not been proven effective. The drugs are said to increase the blood flow locally around the vagina and the clitoris However, these drugs are not currently available on the market for women.
Another way to look at coping with low libido in women can be narrowed down to three things, according to femhealth.net: 1. Lifestyle Changes, 2. Alternative Medicine, and 3. Drugs and Surgery. Lifestyle changes may not be risky, but they sure can be harder than the conventional treatments. This involves exercising regularly, and eating estrogenic foods, such as rice, wheat, yams, and alfalfa. Not many people have the discipline or the desire to make such changes to their diet. You only need to take a look at the weight loss problem to reach that conclusion.
The second approach, alternative medicine, involves taking phytoestrogen and non-estrogenic herbs. The phytoestrogen herbs reportedly contain estrogen and run the risk of causing cancer, heart attack, or stroke.. That is why many turn to the non-estrogenic herbs, which contain no estrogen and are said to nourish the body’s own hormone glands and encourage healthy hormone production. The belief is that this balances the body’s overall hormone levels. It is also believed that it acts as a libido enhancer in women (talk with your physician about these alternative therapies to see if they might be right for you).
The last approach for low libido women- Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a typical drug intervention and is not without risks either (such as cancer). Again talk to your doctor about this treatment if you are considering it as a possibility.
Surviving low libido in women can be done. But please do your homework and consult your doctor before you start any treatment. Some women actually use more than one option at a time to address their low sexual desire. Not all treatments are right for all women and can be as individual as each person. Don’t let this problem take control of your life, your emotions, and your relationship. Talk to your partner about what you’re experiencing. Let them know where you are at. If you can clearly communicate about the problem, it will be easier to enlist their help in finding the answer.
Rich is a retired social worker having worked in that field for over 15 years. Rich spent 9 years as a CPS Case Manager working with troubled families. For more information on Rich and his take on romance, go to: http://www.romanceadvice.net