Low Libido in Women:

Causes & Care

Low sexual desire (low libido or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, HSDD)

is common across ages and can affect relationships and quality of life.

Research from the International Society for the Study of Womens Sexual Health (ISSWSH) estimates that about 8-19% of women experience this at some point.

Understanding causes and care options helps restore sexual well-being.

Definition

Low libido refers to a persistent or recurrent decrease in interest or desire for sexual activity

that causes personal distress or relationship impact.

It should be distinguished from culturally or situationally appropriate variations in desire.

Causes

• Hormonal changes: postpartum, breastfeeding, perimenopause/menopause; low estrogen or testosterone
• Medical conditions: chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), depression, sleep problems, endocrine disorders
• Medications: SSRIs/antidepressants, antihypertensives, some hormonal agents
• Psychological & relationship factors: stress, anxiety, strained relationships, negative sexual experiences
• Lifestyle factors: inadequate rest, overwork, poor self-care, inactivity, suboptimal nutrition

Symptoms

• Reduced interest in sexual activity
• Few sexual thoughts or fantasies
• Diminished response to sexual stimuli
• Personal distress or relationship impact

Diagnosis

Requires detailed history,

physical examination,

hormone testing,

mental-health assessment,

using DSM-5 criteria for HSDD.

Clinicians may use tools such as the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Management

• Lifestyle & behavior: improve sleep, exercise, stress management
• Psychological/relationship therapy: sex therapy, CBT, couples therapy
• Adjust medications that may suppress desire (under medical supervision)
• Hormone therapy when indicated (e.g., documented androgen deficiency)
• Approved pharmacologic options (e.g., flibanserin, bremelanotide) in countries where available; not widely used in Thailand

Doctors Advice

Low libido is not a fault or something to be judged. A medical evaluation can identify causes and guide safe, appropriate treatment. Avoid unproven libido boosters without scientific evidence.

Summary

If youre experiencing low libido, consult a clinician for proper assessment and care.
Clitoria Clinic, Phetkasem 81 · Tel 081-116-3788 · LINE OA: @dr.clitoria

Meta Description

Low libido in women evidence-based causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment with medical guidance. Clitoria Clinic, Phetkasem 81.

Keywords

low libido, HSDD, womens hormones, sexual concerns, sex therapy, Clitoria Clinic