Low Libido
Everyone’s libido naturally fluctuates due to a variety of factors including stress, menstrual cycles or menopause, negative body image, and more. While the needs and desire to address low libido are subjective, there are ways to help if you are struggling with low libido. Some circumstantial factors will be inescapable and for those instances, you may need to wait it out. For those who want to try to increase their libido, here are some strategies for doing so.
Address the issue at the root
Stress
Hormonal changes
Poor body image
Relationship issues with sexual partner(s)
Medications
Alcohol consumption
Scheduled intimacy
Many couples are mixed libido. Knowing when you’ll be having sex allows suspense to build and for you to set the mood in advance.
Intimacy doesn’t always mean penetration. Making time to connect in an intentional way leads to feelings of closeness and safety.
Rule out biological factors
Biological factors like menopause, depression/anxiety can all affect libido.
If you suspect there is something biologically wrong that is causing the low libido, visit a doctor to figure out what’s going on.
Spice it up
Express your sexual fantasies and kinks.
Incorporate a sex toy or try reading erotica with your partner.
Have a staycation at a local hotel leaving your daily distractions behind.
Body image
If you struggle with body positivity or neutrality, your self consciousness may be holding you back from desiring sex.
Sex is an emotionally and physically vulnerable act. When your body image is suffering, that vulnerability feels even more difficult to achieve, which disincentivizes sexual desire.
Evaluate your medications
Some medications, such as SSRIs, have libido lowering side effects.
If you use certain hormonal birth control, the way it influences your hormonal cycle may affect libido.
Set the mood
Lighting candles
Making yourself feel sexy
Putting on music
Running a bath
Give each other massages
Rest assured, low libido is something most people encounter at some point in their life. If after implementing a variety of strategies to increase libido you still struggle with low libido, consider seeing a doctor to ensure nothing more serious is at the root. In instances where emotional issues are at the root, consider speaking to a therapist. Be patient with yourself and listen to your mind and body.