Everyone has a different sex drive. There isn’t one ‘normal’ level, some may want sex more, some want it less. But, there are cases where a lack of sex drive can affect relationships, mental health and general wellbeing. Diet, stress and general health are all factors that can affect the libido, but whatever the reason, here are some things that you can do to bring your sex drive back.
Treating Underlying Conditions
Underlying medical conditions can cause a loss of libido in men and women. The NHS state the physical and emotional strain associated with long term conditions can lower sex drive. Heart disease, diabetes and major surgery are all conditions associated with a lower libido, as they reduce blood flow to the body, necessary for sexual arousal. They also say that a lower sex drive could be a side effect of treatment.
To combat this, the underlying issue must be addressed. For some medical problems, surgical intervention may be needed. Medication, such as blood pressure tablets, prostate cancer medicine or tranquilizers can also reduce desire. If this is the case, talk to your GP about different medication options or reducing your dosage.
Ironing Out Relationship Issues
Sex problems can often point to relationship issues that need to be addressed. Performance issues like vaginal dryness or erectile dysfunction can be physical reasons for a lower sex drive. Other times, a lack of intimacy and looking after a child can all decrease the libido. Other times, a lack of intimacy and looking after a child can all decrease the libido. A couple may find that they are spending too much time together. The pandemic has shown this, with 23% of couples saying they struggled with their relationships during lockdown. Every couple needs space from each other to recharge and rekindle desire. Difficulties like a lack of communication and low trust can all manifest itself into a lower sex drive.
To help desire your partner again, try to work towards solving the issues in your relationship. Relationship counselling and sex therapy can help greatly; your GP may be able to refer you to a service. There are also some natural solutions you might like to try. Healthline states that eating herbs and garlic may help blood flow, useful for erectile dysfunction sufferers. They also say that there are studies suggesting that yohimbine, found in West Africa, can help maintain an erection. It is debatable whether these natural ways actually work or not, but your GP may be a better choice to help you tackle physical sex issues.
Cutting Down Alcohol
Wine drinkers may feel more confident and at ease after one glass, which can help increase interest in sex. However, after one glass, alcohol can start to affect performance, in particular, erectile function. Large amounts of alcohol can also reduce the libido, contribute to vaginal dryness, and also reduce the ability to orgasm.
The NHS advises men and women not to drink more than 14 units a week. If you drink regularly, cutting down on alcohol consumption can be a big factor in improving your mood, and in turn, your sex drive.
Reducing Stress Levels
Healthline states that men and women may encounter stress differently. Men tend to use sex to relieve stress, whereas women find sex can be anxiety inducing. For those in heterosexual relationships, this difference can cause tension between a couple, creating more pressure in the process.
A GP can help talk you through advice to deal with stress. There are also lifestyle changes you can do which can help manage the symptoms. Meditation can help greatly, while challenging fitness levels can be a great outlet for frustration and emotions. Exercise lowers cortisol levels and produces ‘feel-good’ endorphins. This actively reduces stress and can help maintain a decent sex drive. Robert J. Davis for Health.com says exercise makes men and women feel more desirable, which can result in a higher libido.
Eating Aphrodisiacs
There isn’t much proof that suggests eating certain foods can help improve the libido, but there are some fruits that some say work on sex drive. Healthline states that bananas, figs and avocados are viewed as aphrodisiacs. Heart shaped strawberries were also known as a symbol of the Roman goddess of love, Venus. While the jury is still out on if they work on sex drive, strawberries do contain antioxidants that help reduce joint inflammation.
Similarly, chocolate is famed for supposedly improving sexual pleasure. It has been known to release serotonin into the body, which can lift moods and in turn, heighten sexual desire. Although the effects of aphrodisiacs are debatable, prioritising an intake of vitamins has been known to increase circulation. This increase in blood flow can aid sexual arousal and raise the libido.
There are many different routes to take when wanting to increase your sex drive, so it may take some trial and error before you figure out what works best for you. Do remember that even if you decide to go down the natural route, it may be beneficial to tell your doctor that your libido is suffering. They may offer a more tailored solution to your specific needs, and help you to avoid certain side effects in the process.
