The human sex drive or libido fluctuates over a person’s lifetime. Reduced libido or hypoactive sexual desire disorder, is frequently observed in women of all ages, but nearly one-third of women between the ages of 18-59 report a lowered desire for sexual activity.

This condition is slightly different from lowered libido in men as it is a complex, multi-faceted combination of physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Beliefs, experiences, current partners, and lifestyle choices also play a crucial role. Nearly 50% of women experience libido issues in different forms.

Sexual satisfaction is an important aspect of a woman’s general health. When it begins to affect her sense of emotional health or her relationships, it is important to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.

Causes of low libido in women can include the following:

1. Aging and hormonal changes
Hormones like estrogen, oxytocin, serotonin, acetylcholine, etc. along with dopamine, play a major role in regulating the libido. The levels tend to fluctuate during the woman’s lifetime, and even during the day. Other hormones like cortisol regulate energy levels. Fatigue can result from lowered levels of this hormone. Testosterone in women begins to decline by their twenties. It results in problems of acne, hair-loss or excessive hair growth, anxiety, and infertility.

Dysfunction of the thyroid hormone causes weight gain and mood swings. Fluctuating estrogen levels may cause mood changes, dryness, fatigue, etc. Women go through hormonal imbalances during menopause, affecting the desire for sex and intimacy.

2. Stress
It is one of the most frequently observed causes of low libido in women. Stress may be a result of career problems, financial worries, a hostile work environment, or a dysfunctional home environment. Some other causes include overwork, lack of motivation, relationship issues, lack of communication. Absence of emotional support, conflict about chores, childcare, and parenting may be reasons as well.

Sometimes there are unresolved quarrels, trust issues, and a lack of communication regarding sexual needs and preferences. This feeling of not being connected with the partner is one of the major causes of low libido.

3. Medical issues
Chronic conditions like cancer, arthritis, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, neurological conditions, etc. can affect the natural desire for sex. Taking medications for the treatment of depression, blood pressure, birth control, etc. can be the cause of low libido in women.

Apart from this, certain products and chemicals can interfere with the endocrine system. These may be found in plastics, cosmetics, personal care products, cleaning products, or even fast foods. They are currently being studied, and their role as endocrine disruptors is as yet not fully understood. Pregnancy and production of prolactin in nursing mothers may also inhibit the libido.

4. Lifestyle choices
Smoking, drinking, lack of sleep and regular exercise, poor nutrition, drug abuse, etc. are factors that can impact libido in women. The underlying cause of these unhealthy habits has to be understood and treated.

5. Treatment options
Diagnosis of this issue is done via a physical exam, checking hormonal levels and medical history, pelvic exam, and noting the person’s sexual history. Treatment may be conducted by a specialist or GP.

Some treatments include:

• Sex education and counseling
• Hormone therapy and medications
• Exercise, dietary changes, stress management, and adopting a healthier lifestyle
• Support from the partner