Question: I’ve been married for 10 years and have recently gone off sex with my husband. Do you have any natural supplements to boost libido?

17 September, 2008 – 18:56

Answer: We are bombarded daily with images of sex and the perfect relationships. This can make us question our own relationships, you may start to feel like everyone else is having better more frequent sex than you. Chances are they’re not.

There are many reasons why women go off sex. Although women may feel that their lack of interest and satisfaction in sex may just be a downside of married life, in fact it could be a simple underlying health problem that, when addressed, could put the spark back into their sex life.

1- High blood pressure

It is not widely known that high blood pressure can have a negative effect on a woman’s libido. Even though over 40% of women have high blood pressure in the UK, few would realise this could be causing their lack of interest in sex. Studies have shown that when women embark on a course of blood pressure lowering medication, often their sex drive will notably improve.

2- Lack of testosterone

Many people may think that a lack of testosterone is something only men need to worry about, but in fact women also have the hormone (only 10% of a man’s testosterone). Testosterone increases sexual libido in both men and women but after childbirth and breast feeding and also at the start of the menopause, women’s levels of testosterone can drop off, lowering their sex drive.

3- Hayfever

Women with hay fever and allergies may not realise it but studies have shown that over the counter antihistamines can have a negative effect on female libido. Studies have shown that they tend to induce extreme drowsiness, which can mean you fall asleep quickly and easily at night and so killing all potential for sexual arousal. They also cause a decrease in vaginal lubrication which can lead to pain during intercourse.

4- Bad circulation

Good blood flow to the genitals is not only important for men, it can effect the sensitivity and stimulation of a woman’s genitals making it harder to get aroused and to achieve an orgasm.

5- Depression

Even mild forms of depression can have a detrimental effect on libido. Many people with mild depression do not even realise they have it and so may not guess that this could be the reason for a loss of interest in sex.

6- Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness is a major cause of lack of libido. It is a common condition that affects women of all ages, although women tend to become drier as they age, especially around the menopause.

Vaginal dryness can be caused by a number of things including a bacterial imbalance or infections even hormones in the pill can cause dryness. It can make sex painful and therefore you rarely want to make love.

There are also various natural supplements that may help, ginkgo biloba is said to improve blood flow to the sexual organs, and Vitamin E supplies the sex organs with sufficient oxygen.