Lost your libido? You need to read this...

We’ve all been through ‘dry spells’ where we just haven’t been in the mood.

This is completely natural and there is no need to be turned on all of the time. However, prolonged loss of libido can cause anxiety for women and even put a strain on relationships.

While there might be no getting around a little libido trouble, identifying the cause can be a big help in alleviating the problem.

Here are the top three culprits for stealing away your sex drive.

1. Antidepressants

The most common type of anti-depressant medication are known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s). Surprisingly, an increase in serotonin can often cause issues in the bedroom. Obstacles that arise when on SSRI’s include difficultly with getting and staying aroused, trouble orgasming, late ejaculation and an overall disinterest in sex.

For many, antidepressants are life-saving so simply not taking the medication is never an option. There are ways to rediscover your sex drive while on SSRI’s. If you have just started your course of medication, you might find the side effects wear of after a few weeks. If not, open communication with your partner is paramount. Let them know what you are struggling with and brainstorm ways to overcome it. Bringing vibrators or other toys into the bedroom can help you pleasure your partner without you needing to reciprocate with arousal.

2. Stress

It’s no secret that stress is bad for you but did you know it’s bad for your sex life too? A body under chronic stress is one that is fighting for survival. When you are stressed your body sends all its resources to vital organs, making sure you can function normally. Stress also can wreak havoc on your hormones, specifically by increasing your cortisol levels and consequentially depleting your libido.

It’s important in times of high stress to find an outlet, be that exercise, meditation or my personal favourite, masturbation. Using sex toys can be a really great way to train your body to want sex again, and masturbation comes with amazing help benefits (including helping to decrease stress). A little you time could make all the difference.

3. Aging and Menopause

Unfortunately, as we grow older our sex drive tends to decrease. This is particularly so for women approaching menopause, with depleting estrogen levels acting as a main culprit in the loss of sex drive. Sex might be the last thing on your mind with symptoms of night sweats, vaginal dryness and hot flashes wreaking havoc with your body.

The good news is that many women report an increase in sex drive after the menopause transition is over. If this isn’t the case for you, start at the source of the trouble. If pain is what is stopping you, speak to a doctor to get things back on track. As you grow older, it’s important to stay active and healthy. If you feel good you’re more likely to be interested in getting down and dirty.

Featured image via tumblr.com.