What is low libido? What can be the causes?

It's normal to occasionally lose interest in having sexual relations, because libido levels change throughout life. It's also common for your interests to differ from those of your spouse at times. Low libido for an extended length of time, on the other hand, may cause anxiety for certain people. It can occasionally be an indication of a more serious health problem.

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), also known as female sexual interest/arousal condition, is a sexual dysfunction in which women have a reduced sex drive. 

While it is normal for sexual desire to vary, a woman with HSDD will often suffer a loss of sexual desire for at least six months. 

If your sexual desire fluctuations are so dramatic that they are affecting your relationship or self-esteem, you may have HSDD. 

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Among the symptoms of HSDD are: 

• little to no desire for sexual activities 

• minimal to no sexual fantasies or thoughts 

• aversion to initiating sex 

• difficulties in experiencing sexual pleasure 

• an absence of pleasant feelings when the genitals are aroused

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Here are some of the most prevalent causes of female libido loss: 

You're taking birth control pills or an antidepressant. 

The hormones oestrogen and progestin are included in the majority of birth control pills. If you take both, it may drop your testosterone levels – the hormone that can stimulates your sexual desire. 

Hormonal changes which occur during pregnancy or menopause 

If you are pregnant, have recently given birth, or are nursing, your sexual drive may be reduced owing to hormonal changes. Your libido may decline as a result of fatigue, physical changes, and the stress of becoming a parent for the first time. You may also experience a decrease in your sexual urge as you approach menopause.Your oestrogen levels fall at this period, which can cause libido loss and vaginal dryness, both of which can make sex uncomfortable. 

Your mental health might benefit from some care. 

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When you don't feel good, sex is generally the last thing on your mind. This might be due to untreated anxiety or depression, excessive levels of stress, poor body image, or low self-esteem. 

Problems with your relationship 

Emotional connection is important for many women when it comes to intimacy. If you're having issues with your partner, this could be the source of your lesser sex drive.

Whatever the cause of your low sex desire, there are strategies to enhance it. Your primary care physician or OB/GYN can assist you in identifying any medical problems that may be causing your low libido. They can then recommend lifestyle modifications, modify or prescribe new drugs, and assist you in managing any underlying medical concerns.