A
common complaint for many women is the loss of libido, or sex drive.
Often this symptom is associated with menopause,
but adult women of varying age groups have noted a decline in sex drive. While
no one resolution exists, certain strategies can offer significant help for
this condition and overall well-being.
At
the foundation of this issue, most women aren’t aware of all the factors that
effect libido, or the treatments available to help. Many are too embarrassed to
share their worry with a physician. Patients are often told they are
overstressed or depressed and given an antidepressant. Unfortunately, many
medications actually make the problem worse. Many women note that stress is not
the major issue, and that depression is really frustration that their libido is
not in sync with that of their partner.
Focus
on the following areas to add flicker back to the flame.
Sleep:
Libido is just one of many areas
affected by poor sleep. Without
quality sleep, energy will suffer and the body is forced to ration its energy.
For those needing a good night’s sleep and a libido lift, start a gentle
exercise program in the evening. Explore yoga or tai chi which don’t exhaust
the body, and provide a nice sense of relaxation for the mind.
De-stress:
If stress is a major distraction from your love
life, utilize tools to help the body unwind. Massage, exercise and adequate
rest are powerful against stress. B complex vitamins help support the stress
glands, adrenal glands, as does ginseng and licorice. Eating a healthy diet
with limited refined sugar helps keep the body in balance. If
depression is an issue, this should be discussed with a significant other and a
physician so that you can observe other therapies.
Hormonal Therapies:
Fatigue is often a
major contributor to low libido. If the body feels that is does not have the
strength to get through the day at an optimal level, it will begin to ration
its energy. On a biochemical level, fatigue and stress drive certain hormones,
like DHEA and testosterone, down. Though these are often considered male
hormones, they are also found and needed in females (in lesser amounts). Low
levels of testosterone and DHEA can be replaced to help raise libido.
DHEA can be taken
orally and is available over-the-counter. Testosterone is available by
prescription and is typically given to women as a cream. Both of these hormones
may be low in women well before menopause has started. They can be checked
through blood, urine or saliva testing. For many, replacement with DHEA and
other hormones can also improve sleep and improve mood, both of which provide a
natural boost to libido.
Herbals:
Ginseng has
historically been used to improve endurance and stamina. It is tolerated well
and combines with DHEA to aid in libido and what is often described as an
“improved sense of well-being” Observe caution if you experience high blood
pressure or have a history of high heart rate.
L-theanine:
This
extract of green tea has a gentle calming and focusing effect on the mind,
lessening the “racing” that keeps the brain awake at night and disrupts the body’s
attention toward lovemaking.
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