It's not unusual for a woman's sexual desire to change throughout life. Stress, fatigue, hormones and relationship dynamics can all affect interest in intimacy. In fact, research shows that 30% to 60% of women experience sexual dysfunction at least once in their lives. This highlights how important sexual wellness is to overall well-being.
While you might be experiencing low libido, it isn't a fixed condition. Understanding what affects desire can help you support your body’s natural rhythms. Let’s explore scientific insights, lifestyle changes and supportive options to enhance sexual wellness.
Understanding Female Libido
Libido involves more than just sexual urges — it’s shaped by biological, psychological and relationship factors. Hormones like testosterone and estrogen play a role, but so do mood, stress levels and relationship quality. Experts note there’s no single “normal” libido — what matters is whether your desire level feels right for you and your relationship. If low desire leads to frustration or conflict, it’s worth looking into possible causes.
Hormonal Factors That Affect Libido
Hormones play a major role in a woman's sexual function. When their levels shift, desire often does too. Estrogen, the primary female hormone, influences vaginal lubrication and tissue health. Drops in estrogen, due to perimenopause, childbirth or other factors, can cause dryness or discomfort.
Women also have testosterone, though in lower amounts than men, and it’s another key factor in libido. Low testosterone has been linked to reduced sexual satisfaction and arousal in postmenopausal women. Some hormonal contraceptives, such as certain birth control pills, can lower testosterone and may reduce desire.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
Increasing female sex drive involves addressing both mental and physical factors. Anxiety, depression and chronic stress can lower libido by draining energy and affecting the brain’s reward system. Unresolved feelings about past experiences or body image can also make intimacy less appealing.
Therapy can be effective in addressing these barriers. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps reframe negative thought patterns that interfere with sexual satisfaction. Women with low sexual desire may benefit from CBT to improve mental health. Individual counseling can also boost self-esteem, while couples therapy helps partners strengthen communication and rebuild trust.
Remember, psychological challenges are common and not a sign of weakness. Seeking support through counseling or stress reduction techniques can lift some of the weight holding you back. A clearer, more confident mind can make it easier to rekindle intimacy.
Relationship Dynamics and Intimacy
Desire is closely connected to your relationship. When partners openly communicate about their needs and preferences, they create trust, which leads to better intimacy. Unspoken frustrations or a lack of connection can lower libido.
Emotional closeness often precedes physical intimacy. Research shows that couples who nurture affection outside the bedroom tend to report stronger sexual satisfaction. This might include holding hands, planning date nights or having meaningful conversations.
Exploring new activities together can also reignite interest. Try extending foreplay, experimenting or simply changing routines. This sense of novelty can fuel desire. For some women, variety and creativity are just as important as physical closeness. A stronger relationship creates a safe space, making it easier for libido to increase naturally.
Lifestyle Modifications That Can Help
Lifestyle changes can also improve women's sexual health. Libido is part of your overall health, and your body needs proper care to function well. Improving daily routines can make a real difference. Consider your:
- Exercise: Working out is a great way to support desire. Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, raises energy and enhances body confidence — all factors tied to arousal and satisfaction. Both aerobic and strength training exercises have been shown to improve sexual function in women.
- Nutrition: Food is another area to watch. A balanced diet with lean proteins, vegetables and whole grains supports heart health and hormone balance. Research has linked diets high in sugar and processed foods to lower libido. Make sure you're getting your vitamins, as well.
- Sleep: Getting enough sleep is important — women who sleep more tend to report higher sexual desire. Consistent, deep sleep helps stabilize mood and hormone production, both of which influence libido.
- Stress management: Finally, make sure you're managing your stress. Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can affect sexual response in both women and men. Try yoga or make time for hobbies to reduce tension.
Medical and Supplement Options for Low Libido Treatment
If lifestyle and relationship changes aren’t enough, medical and supplement options can offer additional support. Talk to your healthcare professional about over-the-counter and prescription options.
Lubricants
Over-the-counter solutions like lubricants and vaginal moisturizers can ease dryness and discomfort. These products make physical intimacy more comfortable, which can help with arousal. When sex is comfortable, it’s easier to develop positive associations with intimacy. Look for water-based lubricants, as some silicone-based lubricants are incompatible with condoms.
Supplements
Nutritional supplements are an emerging area of research. For example, VIVO™ is the first supplement shown in clinical studies to improve several aspects of sexual wellness in younger, premenopausal women. Taken daily for four to six weeks, VIVO™ has been shown to support desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and overall satisfaction. Its effects are most notable in women with the lowest baseline sexual satisfaction and testosterone levels.
As with any supplement, VIVO™ is designed to support women's natural sexual health as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle — not to diagnose, treat or cure medical conditions. If you use supplements for libido, also support your overall health and consult your doctor as needed.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, outside help is necessary. If you experience a sudden drop in desire, painful intimacy, or libido changes with other symptoms, contact a healthcare provider. Gynecologists and primary care physicians can help identify the cause. They'll look into hormones, medications or life factors that might be causing low libido.
Seeking women's libido treatment helps you understand the root of your concerns. Professionals will give you a researched, personalized path forward.
Support Your Sexual Wellness With Confidence
Low libido is common, but it doesn't have to be permanent. Women have many ways to foster desire and satisfaction. The key is remembering that sexual wellness is part of overall health. Consistent emphasis on self-care and health can make a real difference. At Ovaterra, we believe women deserve science-led, compassionate solutions designed for their unique needs.
Ovaterra is here to help you on your health journey. Our fertility and nutritional supplements, like VIVO™, are tailored for reproductive health and optimal fertility outcomes. Contact us with any questions or explore our shop online.
