What is libido?
Libido, also termed sex drive, is defined as a person’s overall sexual drive or desire for sexual activity. A healthy sex drive and sex life form a very important part of an intimate relationship. Changes in the level of desire from either partner, if it is not discussed and resolved, can lead to relationship problems with either partner either feeling guilty, rejected or frustrated. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) which is used internationally as the authoritative classification of psychiatric disorders, female sexual interest/arousal disorder was introduced as a new and recognized disorder. In other words low female libido is both a common and recognized condition.
What are the causes of low libido?
The causes of low libido, in both men and women, can be divided into physical, medical, and psychological or emotional. Examples of physical conditions that will negatively affect libido are diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis as well as serious diseases such as cancer or coronary disease. Studies have found that up to 50% of women over 40 suffer from low libido, disinterest in sex and / or an inability to achieve orgasm.
Other physical causes
Unhealthy lifestyle choices will also affect libido. Although a nice glass of wine may help amorous feelings develop too much alcohol will lessen libido and also cause other physical problems that will make enjoyable sex harder to achieve. Smoking decreases blood-flow which dampens arousal and a bad diet will not give you the levels of health and energy needed to have great sex. Medications especially some anti-depressants are also know to be libido killers.
Menopause, pregnancy and hormonal changes
An important factor that influences female libido levels are hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and also menopause. After menopause levels of the female hormone estrogen drop. This causes vaginal dryness which makes sex uncomfortable or even painful. At the same time women also experience a drop in testosterone levels. Low testosterone causes a drop in libido in both women and men. Hormonal changes also occur during pregnancy, just after childbirth and also whilst breastfeeding. fatigue, the stress of pregnancy, body image concerns and caring for the new baby can all have the effect of lowering libido.
Psychological / emotional factors
There are many psychological factors that cause women to experience low libido. These include anxiety and depression, stress, poor body image and low self-esteem. A previous history of physical or sexual abuse or previous negative experience of sex will may all contribute to low libido. Last but not least, relationship problems can be a major contributor to low libido in women. Examples of this include poor communication – especially regarding sexual needs and preferences, lack of connection with ones partner and also unresolved fights and conflict. Infidelity also causes a breakdown in trust which often causes women to not want to have sex with the person that has betrayed their trust.
What can women do to combat low libido?
Happily there are many things that women can do to help combat low libido. Below are two tips discussed in an excellent article posted on www.prevention.com. There are many other tips discussed there so it’s definitely worth a read.
- Meditation – A study conducted by the University of British Columbia followed the progress of 170 women after they had participated in four 90 minute therapy sessions based on mindful meditation techniques. This is a way of meditating that focuses on total awareness and attention to bodily sensations during the time of meditation. 6 months after this treatment it was found that the women experienced significant improvements in levels of desire, arousal and even lubrication. Also sex related distress and general depressive feelings were found to have been reduced.
- Better diet – Following a better diet has also been found to have a large effect on libido levels. A study was done looking at over 15 years worth of data relating to more than 10,000 women in their 50s and early 60s. “Women who consumed a Mediterranean-style diet heavy on fish, nuts, and vegetables were 46% more likely to reach age 70 free of chronic disease or life-changing mental or physical impairments compared to women who didn’t follow this type of diet.” The study also found a significantly lower incidence of sexual dysfunction and libido issues among women following this type of diet.
Herbal and natural low libido treatments
Herbal Remedies International and Virekta have spent many years researching and developing 100% natural and / or herbal supplements to help combat low libido. Virekta (F) is one of their most popular products. It has been designed to be taken regularly on an ongoing basis to improve libido, sexual health and general overall health. Recently grape seed extract has been added to an already excellent formulation. Grape seed extract is very good for boosting cardiovascular health which is an essential element of sexual health. It is also a powerful antioxidant which will combat the causes of aging so you can look better and feel better too.
Another great product is Virekta (F) Super Active – with this product women can finally enjoy the benefits that men have been getting for ages from their ‘little blue pill’. But without the dangerous side effects and the stress and embarrassment associated with a visit to a doctor.This is because Virekta (F) Super Active is a 100% safe natural, herbal product.
Finally, Herbal Remedies International is proud to introduce their brand new product GoGirl. GoGirl is a fantastic product scientifically designed to naturally enhance female sexual response. GoGirl works naturally and safely to profoundly increase female genital sensitivity. Even if you are already satisfied with your lovemaking, GoGirl will help you achieve heightened levels of arousal and pleasure. Women of any age can now enjoy enhanced sexual responsiveness!
GoGirl is a safe topical spray. Its primary ingredient is the essential amino acid L-Arginine. Arginine is used by the body to produce Nitic-Oxide. This dramatically improves circulation, overall health and, most importantly, levels of genital arousal.
We’ll discuss the amazing properties of L-Arginine in the next article and how its discovery lead to the award of a nobel prize.