Managing Stress for a Healthier Sex Drive in Women
The effects of hormonal and non-hormonal intrauterine devices on female sexual function: A systematic review.
1. L-Arginine
But if you’re feeling down or discouraged about your libido, it could be worth talking to your primary care provider or OB-GYN. They can help figure out what’s going on with your libido and talk to you about treatment options. As we mentioned above, having a low libido isn’t necessarily a problem. It’s something that many women will experience at some point in life. But for some people, low libido can actually be a sexual health condition called female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) — previously known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder, or HSDD.
What causes low libido?
People with FSIAD have a very low libido and/or problems getting sexually aroused. To be diagnosed with FSIAD, you must have symptoms for at least 6 months. Your symptoms also have to make you feel unhappy or distressed. Libido and sexual arousal are connected, but they’re different. Sexual arousal is what happens physically to your body when it’s stimulated sexually.
Tribulus terrestris
It’s what people call “feeling turned on.” During sexual arousal, physical changes take place in your body. Your genitals start to swell, get lubricated, and become more sensitive to touch and stimulation. Libido is your desire to have sex, either with yourself or a partner. Libido also includes your thoughts and fantasies about sex. When you’re interested in sex (libido), and able to also get physically turned on (arousal), that’s often a good recipe for pleasurable sex. A review of sex and gender factors in stimulant treatment for ADHD: Knowledge gaps and future directions.
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Defining and diagnosing female sexual interest/arousal disorder. Flibanserin ineffective for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women. Long-term safety and efficacy of bremelanotide for hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Sexual problems and distress in United States women: Prevalence and correlates. Prevalence of low sexual desire and hypoactive sexual desire disorder in a nationally representative sample of US women. Scroll down for our experts' guide on SUPPLEMENTS TO ENHANCE SEX DRIVE for women. Clinically studied root shown to support sexual desire and female vitality Clinically researched adaptogen that supports stress resilience and sexual wellbeing Research-backed herb that supports healthy hormone balance and libido Essential mineral for normal hormone production and reproductive health Hormone-like vitamin that supports mood, vitality and endocrine balance Essential mineral that restores energy and vitality when iron levels are low Supports hormonal signalling and metabolic balance linked to female health Natural source of GLA that supports hormonal balance and female wellbeing Yes, low libido is very common in women and can occur at any age. It’s often linked to hormonal fluctuations, stress, relationship dynamics, chronic health conditions, or nutritional deficiencies.
- Estrogen therapy can be considered for women experiencing libido decline due to menopause.
- Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha reduce stress and may improve sexual desire.
- Pelvic floor exercises increase blood flow and sensitivity, boosting libido.
Periods of low desire are completely normal and nothing to be ashamed of, especially during major life transitions such as pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause.
- Maca root is known to improve sexual desire and energy levels in women.
- Ginseng may enhance libido by improving circulation and reducing fatigue.
- Tribulus terrestris is used to support hormonal balance and increase female sex drive.
Hormonal changes (such as those related to the menstrual cycle, birth control, pregnancy, or menopause), psychological factors like stress or depression, relationship issues, fatigue, chronic illnesses, certain medications, and nutrient deficiencies (e.g. It's often a combination of physical and emotional factors. Yes, certain evidence-backed supplements may support female libido, especially when low desire is linked to stress, fatigue, or hormonal imbalances. Supplements such as Ashwagandha, Maca Root, Fenugreek, Zinc Bisglycinate, and B vitamins can help balance stress hormones, support energy, and encourage hormone health. However, they should be used as part of a broader wellbeing strategy, not as a quick fix. Some of the most researched libido-boosting supplements for females include Ashwagandha KSM-66 (for stress and cortisol balance), Fenugreek (for hormonal support), Maca Root (for energy and mood), Zinc Bisglycinate (for hormone production), Iron Bisglycinate (for energy and anaemia), and Vitamin B Complex and D3 (for mood and metabolic support).
Coping and support
Lifestyle choices can augment female sexual well-being. The U.S. surgeon general wants cancer warnings on alcohol. Efficacy and safety of flibanserin for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women: A tadalis 20 systematic review and meta-analysis. Boston University School of Medicine, Sexual Medicine. Starflower oil may also help relieve hormonal discomforts that interfere with desire. Libido supplements are generally safe when sourced from reputable brands and taken as directed.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Adderall affects dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can shift how reward and arousal are processed. Hormones like estrogen also interact with these brain pathways. So, how Adderall affects libido may vary across the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, or menopause. Adderall can also indirectly affect libido by disrupting sleep, increasing anxiety, or suppressing appetite. If you notice changes in your sex life after starting Adderall, a healthcare professional may recommend adjusting your dose or timing, switching medications, or reviewing other medications you take that could also affect libido.
What can a menopausal woman take to increase libido? +
A “normal” libido (sex drive) is different for everyone. And it may naturally change many times over the course of your life. But if your low libido is making you feel down about your sex life, it could be helpful to talk with your primary care provider. You may be able to make changes in your personal life or to the medications you take. Other treatments are also available and may help you. However, not all supplements are created equal. It's important to avoid unregulated products or those with synthetic hormones or stimulants. Always check for third-party testing, and consult a healthcare professional if you're taking medication, are pregnant, or have a chronic condition. Some supplements may interact with hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). For example, herbal products like Fenugreek or Maca can influence hormone activity.
| Factor | Description | Impact on Libido |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Exercise | Improves blood circulation and mood | Generally positive effect |
| Adequate Sleep | Restores hormone balance | Significant boost |
| Stress Management | Meditation, yoga, therapy | Reduces cortisol, enhances libido |
| Alcohol Intake | Moderate consumption may help, excess harms libido | Varies depending on amount |
If you're using any form of hormonal treatment, it's best to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting libido supplements to ensure compatibility and safety.
Why has my libido decreased?
But it’s possible to feel sexually aroused and not desire sex. Likewise, you can want sex but not be able to become physically aroused. Asexuality means you’re not sexually attracted to other people, or only in certain circumstances. It’s a type of sexual orientation, just like homosexuality or heterosexuality. When it comes to your sex life, your best bet is to eat a wide variety of nutritious foods.
How can I increase my libido quickly?
There’s a small amount of evidence that certain foods could potentially be helpful for some people, such as: But more research is needed before we can say for sure. While a drink or two can lower inhibitions and put you “in the mood,” alcohol actually makes it harder for your body to respond sexually. Alcohol also comes with significant health risks. Even small amounts (less than 1 drink a day) can increase your risk of having cancer. Most people don’t notice a change in sex drive with an intrauterine device (IUD).
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But hormonal IUDs release a low dose of progestin, so it’s possible this may affect libido in some people. Still, most notice no change or even an improvement. Nonhormonal (copper) IUDs don’t affect hormones, and so they’re unlikely to impact sex drive. Research specifically looking at Adderall’s effects on libido — especially in women — is limited. But available evidence suggests it may lower sex drive or make arousal more difficult for some people. In the UK, it is illegal to put any substance into someone’s drink without their knowledge and consent, even if the substance is a natural supplement. Doing so could be classified as assault, poisoning, or even a sexual offence depending on the context. It is a serious criminal act, and consent must always be informed, explicit, and respected. There isn’t a single “best” supplement, as libido is influenced by many factors including stress, hormone levels, and nutrient status. However, popular and well-studied options include Ashwagandha KSM-66 for stress reduction, Maca Root for energy and desire, Fenugreek for hormone support, and Zinc Bisglycinate for reproductive health. The most effective choice depends on the underlying cause of low libido. Menopausal women often benefit from supplements that support hormone balance and mood. Fenugreek, Maca Root, and Starflower Oil may help improve vaginal comfort and hormonal equilibrium. Vitamin D3, B vitamins, and Iron Bisglycinate can also support energy and mood, which are key to maintaining libido during and after menopause. In some cases, yes—perimenopause can temporarily increase libido due to unpredictable hormone surges, particularly oestrogen and testosterone.
| Age Group | Typical Changes | Recommended Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| 20s-30s | Peak libido, hormonal stability | Maintain healthy lifestyle |
| 40s-50s | Onset of hormonal fluctuations, menopause symptoms | Hormone therapy, natural remedies |
| 60+ | Often decreased desire, vaginal dryness | Vaginal lubricants, estrogen therapy |
| 70+ | Variable, dependent on health and medication use | Regular check-ups, emotional support |
However, most women experience a gradual decline in libido during this transition, often accompanied by mood changes, fatigue, and vaginal dryness. Every woman is different, and experiences can vary widely. Yes, several safe and natural supplements may help boost libido in women, especially if low desire is linked to stress, fatigue, or hormonal changes. Ashwagandha, Fenugreek, Maca Root, and Zinc are among the top options. Supporting nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin D3, and iron may also improve energy and emotional wellbeing, indirectly enhancing libido. While hormone levels change after menopause, many women do regain their libido with the right support. Lifestyle changes, open communication, vaginal comfort solutions, and targeted supplements like Maca, Fenugreek, and Vitamin D3 can all help. Emotional wellbeing and physical health play just as much of a role as hormones in sexual desire after menopause.
- Consuming foods like dark chocolate and strawberries can stimulate dopamine and desire.
- Yoga can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance sexual confidence.
- Regular physical activity increases circulating testosterone, supporting female libido.
A satisfying sex life is essential to your overall happiness and well-being. But factors like stress and aging can make it hard to get in the mood or feel the pleasure that you used to.