Here you will find answers to some of the most common questions our experts hear day-to-day. From how your medications could be affecting your sex drive, to concerns about how to approach sex with a new partner, “Ask the Experts” is your resource for sexual health topics important to women.
And be sure to continue to check back! We are constantly updating the page with new answers, especially to those questions you may be too embarrassed to ask anywhere else.
Could my medication be causing my low sex drive?
This information was provided by DR. JAMES SIMON
It turns out that numerous medications can affect your sexual desire and your ability to have an orgasm. Medications for depression, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, are known to have sexual side effects. Problems include reduced desire, less arousal and sensation, and difficulty reaching orgasm. This side effect comes with not only antidepressant medications, but also with the older medications, including the class of drugs known as MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants. In one survey, between 22 percent and 43 percent of patients taking antidepressants reported some related sexual problem.
Other medications that may affect sexual desire include drugs to prevent seizures, lower high blood pressure, treat anxiety disorders, lower cholesterol, and treat bipolar disorder.
If you are taking any of the medication types listed above (or others within the medication class) and you’re having sexual problems, talk with your health care professional about your symptoms. He or she may suggest you try a different medication among other options.
Just remember, sexual problems associated with medications are problems that can be resolved; but solving the problem must start with a conversation with your health care professional.
How do I know if my lack of desire is a problem with me or if it’s actually a problem with my partner?
This information was provided by DR. SUSAN KELLOGG-SPADT
First, I applaud you for not playing the “blame game” with your partner. You’re both entitled to a healthy and satisfying sex life, but it can require some effort and a lot of communication.
Think about the reasons why you may not be enjoying sex with your partner. Are you facing issues in the relationship? Are you stressed? Are you taking medications that affect your sex drive? It’s common for the demands of everyday life to get in the way of sexual desire. As women, we are often faced with a number of responsibilities and roles—from daughter to spouse to mother to CEO, we do it all! In the midst of all the “to dos,” our sexual health can fall to the bottom of the list.
That being said, the ability to communicate about sex can be crucial to a healthy relationship. One of the few studies in this area found a significant connection between the levels of satisfaction with a relationship and the ability to communicate about sexual needs. Ninety-seven percent of women who rated their communication about sex with their partner as “good,” also said their relationship with their partner was “happy.” The study also found that women who didn’t feel they could communicate about their sexual needs with their partner had lower self-esteem than those who rated their communication as “good.”
It may be hard, but it’s important to find the time with your partner to explore and talk about your desires. For a fun way to “break the ice” and boost communication with your partner, take a look at the Sex Brain Body: Make the Connection flashcard game.
I can’t get in the mood. Is it all in my head?
This information was provided by DR. SHERYL A. KINGSBERG
In the past, most research surrounding sexual performance has generally focused on men and physiological factors. However, two recent studies sought to explore the brain’s potential role in Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)—decreased sexual desire in women marked by distress. Both studies utilized brain imaging techniques (PET scans and functional MRI) to determine whether there were observable differences in brain activity between women with HSDD and women without sexual dysfunction. Both groups of researchers studied brain activation and deactivation patterns, while participants were exposed to a series of non-sexual and sexual visual stimuli. Both studies found a strong difference in activity patterns between the two groups of women, in specific areas of the brain.
So what exactly does this mean? The answer is that we aren’t quite sure. However, it does suggest that there is an underlying neurobiological component to HSDD. In other words, it’s not just a mechanical issue for women.
So back to the question—yes, your lack of desire likely begins in your brain, but it’s not all in your head. But that doesn’t mean it is not a real problem, with real symptoms and real effects on your relationships and overall well-being. Your brain is your most important sex organ—not only is it the center of your thoughts and emotions, but it is also home to a complex system of neurotransmitters, nerves, hormones and other chemicals which are thought to affect your sexual desire and arousal. Experts continue to conduct research in the area, but the current theory is that women with HSDD may have an imbalance between the neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain that play a part in sexual response. By understanding the brain and its role in desire, you may be better able to understand your sexual health and overall well-being. Use this information to help start the conversation with you partner and health care provider (HCP). Communicating with your partner and HCP is the first step towards finding a treatment that is right for you.
Are there physical activities that can revamp my libido?
This information was provided by DR. PHILIP SARREL
Exercise, in any shape or form, is good for your mind, body and soul. A number of “feel good” endorphins are released during physical activities, which elevate your mood and make you feel like you’re on top of the world! Exercising regularly not only helps improve your mental and physical health, but it may also improve your sexual health. In fact, studies show that self-esteem and body image can be closely tied to a woman’s sexual desire, and let’s be honest: we all feel more confident and sexy when we’re in good shape.
So go on and get moving! How about taking up walking, hiking, swimming or tennis? There’s a reason why these activities are known as “lifetime” sports: they are low-impact activities that combine both cardio and light strength training, and can be done at any age. Or, take it up a notch with spinning or Zumba, an aerobic workout based on Latin dance rhythms.
Interested in a more calming workout? Pilates and yoga are not only relaxing forms of exercise, but they also strengthen your muscles and relieve stress, and may improve desire and sexual performance.
Whatever the sport or class may be, the benefits of exercise are endless, both in and outside of the bedroom.
