Low libido or sex drive is a very common complaint among both men and women. The underlying causes of a low sex drive are difficult to identify as there are so many factors that may play a role. In this article I am going to discuss the role your sex hormones play in overall libido, focusing primarily on Testosterone, Estrogen and Progesterone.
In women, Estrogen is produced throughout the hormone cycle, both in the first and second half. Progesterone is primarily produced in the second half of the cycle. Testosterone has its peak production right before ovulation. A balance between all 3 of these hormone systems is important to help a woman feel her best.
Hormones levels start to decline in our 30’s. These shifts in hormones can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, memory problems, irritability, depression, vaginal dryness and loss of libido. In one study of 135 postmenopausal women, 65% reported a loss of libido (1).
A simple urine, blood or saliva test can determine your hormone levels. If Estrogen, Progesterone or Testosterone levels are low, Bioidentical Hormone replacement therapy can be a good option to restore balance. (click here to see a sample of the Female Hormone Profile. Through testing and a complete assessment of your hormone health, the Naturopathic Doctors at Vitalia Health Care can customize a treatment plan and provide bio-identical HRT if indicated. (click here to read about our Female Hormone Health program )
Remember a low sex drive can be due to a number of different reasons including stress, medications and other hormones including thyroid health. Testing and balancing your sex hormones is an important part of treating a low sex drive. However, do not forget to manage other areas of your life and health that may be impacting your libido.
Happy Valentines Day!
Yours in health,
Dr Tasreen Alibhai, ND
(1). DW Studer, Clinical symptoms of estrogen deficiency: causes and consequence, 1996, Ed RW Stat, The Parthenon Publishing Group, New York, USA
