Low Libido in Women: Myths vs. Facts You Need to Know to Improve Your Sexual Health

Introduction: Let’s Talk About What’s Really Going On

Experiencing a drop in sexual desire? Low libido—a dip in sexual desire—is something many women experience, but it’s rarely discussed openly. Let me start by saying this: You’re not broken. In fact, studies show that 1 in 3 women experience low sexual desire at some point, and it’s often tied to everyday stressors, hormonal shifts, or even societal myths that paint desire as a “one-size-fits-all” experience. If you look at the percentage of women with low libido, it is somewhere around 40-70%. Baystate Health

What makes this topic particularly challenging is the overwhelming amount of conflicting information out there. From well-meaning friends to internet forums, everyone seems to have an opinion on what's causing low libido in women and how to "fix" it. This barrage of advice can leave you feeling even more confused and isolated.

At Proactive For Her, we’ve seen countless women walk through our doors feeling confused or ashamed. But here’s the truth: Your sexual health is as unique as your fingerprint. Whether it’s stress from work, relationship dynamics, or even that birth control pill you’ve been taking for years, your body is sending you signals, not judgments. Let’s unpack the myths, embrace the facts, and give you the tools to reclaim your confidence.

Common Myths About Low Libido

Myth 1: “Low libido only affects older women.”

False. Desire doesn’t come with an expiration date. While hormonal changes during menopause can play a role, young women in their 20s and 30s are just as likely to experience dips in libido. Stress, anxiety, or even lifestyle factors like sleep deprivation or diet can dampen desire at any age.

Myth 2: “Low libido is always a medical issue.”

Not necessarily. While conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances can affect libido, often it’s psychological factors like stress, body image struggles, or past trauma that take centre stage. For example, chronic stress disrupts cortisol levels, which directly impacts sexual arousal.

Myth 3: “Low libido means your relationship is failing.”

Nope. Emotional closeness matters, but a temporary dip in desire doesn’t spell doom for your relationship. In fact, many couples navigate this together through open communication or therapy. Blaming yourself or your partner only adds pressure—something desire definitely doesn’t need.

Facts About Low Libido in Women

Fact 1: Your Mind and Body Are Connected

Sexual desire is a dance between your brain, hormones, and environment. For instance:

• Hormonal shifts: Birth control pills, pregnancy, or breastfeeding can alter estrogen and testosterone levels, affecting libido.
• Mental health: Anxiety or depression can hijack your focus, making it hard to feel present during intimacy.
• Lifestyle factors: Poor sleep, alcohol overuse, or a sedentary routine can sap energy and arousal.

Fact 2: Medical Help Exists—And It’s Not Scary

If hormonal imbalances (like low testosterone) are at play, treatments like testosterone therapy or estrogen creams can help. For women with persistent vaginal dryness—common during breastfeeding or perimenopause—non-hormonal lubricants or moisturisers often make a world of difference.

Fact 3: Mental Health Is Sexual Health

Therapy isn’t just for “big” issues. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices have been shown to rewire stress responses and boost sexual satisfaction. At Proactive For Her, we’ve seen how simply talking about these feelings can lift the weight of isolation.

Treatment Options: What Actually Works

1. Medical Interventions

• Hormonal adjustments: Switching birth control methods or exploring bioidentical hormones under a doctor’s guidance.

2. Supplements & Natural Remedies

• Maca root or ashwagandha: Linked to improved energy and stress resilience (though always consult your doctor first!).
• Zinc and vitamin D: Critical for hormone production—try adding nuts, seeds, or sunlight to your routine. These supplements for women’s low libido might help. 

3. Lifestyle Tweaks That Matter

• Sleep hygiene: Aim for 7–8 hours. Poor sleep disrupts cortisol and kills desire.
• Foreplay-focused intimacy: Explore non-penetrative touch, massages, or shared activities that build connection without pressure.
• Stress management: Yoga, meditation, or even a 10-minute walk can reset your nervous system.

Conclusion

Low libido isn’t a life sentence—it’s a signpost. Maybe it’s pointing to burnout, a hormone check-up, or simply the need for more self-compassion. Remember:

• Myths thrive in silence. By questioning outdated narratives, you’re already taking control.
• Small changes add up. Whether it’s a bedtime routine or a candid chat with your partner, progress starts with one step.
• Help is here. At Proactive For Her, we offer personalised consultations to explore hormonal testing, therapy referrals, or lifestyle plans tailored to your needs.

You deserve to feel empowered in your sexual health. Let’s rewrite the narrative—together.

Why Proactive For Her?

Proactive For Her provides a safe, understanding space for women to explore their sexual health concerns, including low libido. Our team of experts offers personalised care and confidential consultations to help you understand the root causes and find effective solutions. You’re not alone in this journey.

Ready to take the next step? Book a stigma-free consultation with our experts today.

FAQs

1. Can infection cause low libido in women?

Yes, infections can contribute to low libido in women. Conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may cause discomfort, pain during sex, or psychological stress, which can dampen sexual desire. For instance, vaginal infections like vaginismus or vulvodynia can make intercourse painful, leading to avoidance of sexual activity altogether. Additionally, systemic infections or chronic illnesses (e.g., HIV) may reduce energy levels and overall well-being, indirectly affecting libido. Addressing the underlying infection through medication or therapy often helps restore sexual interest.

2. Can anaemia cause low libido in women?

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is strongly linked to low libido in women. Studies show that anaemia reduces energy levels, causes fatigue, and disrupts hormonal balance—all critical for sexual function. For example, a 2018 study found that women with IDA scored significantly lower in sexual satisfaction and arousal compared to non-anaemic women. Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to tissues, including reproductive organs. Low iron levels may also affect dopamine production, a neurotransmitter tied to desire. Treating anaemia with iron supplements or dietary changes often improves libido.

3. Can hormonal imbalance cause low libido in women?

Hormonal imbalances are a leading cause of low libido. Estrogen and testosterone play key roles in sexual desire and arousal. For instance, menopause, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt estrogen and testosterone levels, leading to vaginal dryness, mood swings, or reduced arousal. Birth control pills may also lower testosterone, further diminishing desire. Thyroid disorders or adrenal gland issues can similarly affect hormone balance. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or lifestyle adjustments (e.g., stress management) often help restore equilibrium.

4. Can low libido in women be treated?

Yes, low libido is treatable depending on the cause. Options include:

• Medical interventions: Hormone therapy (e.g., estrogen creams, testosterone patches).
• Lifestyle changes: Exercise, stress reduction, and improved sleep can boost energy and mood.
• Therapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or couples counselling addresses psychological or relational barriers.
• Treating underlying conditions: Managing anaemia, infections, or chronic diseases often restores sexual health.

5. What does low libido in women mean?

Low libido refers to a persistent lack of interest in sexual activity, causing personal distress. It’s not a diagnosis but a symptom influenced by physical, emotional, or relational factors. For example, hormonal shifts (e.g., menopause), stress, relationship conflicts, or medical conditions like diabetes can reduce desire. Importantly, libido varies naturally over time—what’s “low” for one person may be normal for another. A healthcare provider can help distinguish between temporary dips and chronic issues like hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

6. Can high testosterone cause low libido in women?

Paradoxically, high testosterone levels (hyperandrogenism) can suppress libido in women. Conditions like PCOS or adrenal disorders may elevate testosterone, leading to symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, and irregular periods, which can negatively impact body image and sexual confidence. Elevated testosterone is also linked to insulin resistance and inflammation, further reducing sexual function. Treatment focuses on balancing hormones through medications (e.g., birth control pills, metformin) or lifestyle changes (e.g., weight management).

For personalised advice, consult a healthcare provider at Proactive For Her.