Combatting Lower Sexual Desire in Menopausal Women

Decreases in sexual desire are common in menopausal women, but there are ways to get your mojo back

Giddy logo for article on menopause and sexual desire | CU OB-GYN | Denver, CO During the menopausal transition, which can last up to 10 years, hormonal fluctuations or lifestyle adjustments can contribute to a loss in sexual desire.

Perimenopause, which is the initial stage that usually occurs several years before natural menopause, may negatively affect sexual desire in several ways. Around the time of perimenopause, self-esteem, relationship satisfaction and quality of life may all decrease, which may contribute to a loss of libido. If libido is diminished as a result of perimenopause, there is nothing wrong with your body, and if this is an issue for you, there are solutions available.

“As a specialist in female sexual function, lots of women come to me with these concerns,” said Jessica Pettigrew, MSN, CNM, a midwife and co-director of CU Medicine OB-GYN’s women’s sexual health consultation service. “Women do best when treated with a holistic model called a biopsychosocial approach that addresses their whole person, their relationship, past trauma, beliefs about sexual function, assessment of anxiety/depression, and overall well-being.

“Recognize that menopause is a natural life transition and that sexual function changes throughout the life span. It is normal to experience less sexual desire at some point in life.” – Jessica Pettigrew.

If sexual desire is affected by perimenopause, the first step is to identify the underlying cause. Menopause treatment can range from medication and therapy to lifestyle changes.

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