Also known as sex drive, your libido is your general interest in having sex. It varies throughout life and from person to person. It includes your sexual fantasies and thoughts, your desire for sex, and your unique view of sex.
Changes in libido over time are common. After all, several factors, including life events, hormones, your physical and emotional well-being, and the medications you take, might influence your sex drive. Relationships and experiences can also play a big role.
Luckily, if you’re struggling with sex drive, there’s something you can do. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help treat menopausal symptoms. Read on to discover the best HRT for low libido in women.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Libido in Women?
Low libido is quite common in women. According to studies, 1 in 3 American women experience reduced sex drive at some point in their lives.
Low libido is more than just “not being in the mood.” It often develops gradually and may be accompanied by other physical and emotional changes. Here are some signs and symptoms of low libido in women:
- Reduced sexual desire
- Fewer sexual fantasies
- Difficulty becoming aroused
- Emotional detachment
- Decreased lubrication
- Negative feelings towards sex
- Avoidance of Intimacy
- difficulty initiating sex
- Lack of pleasure in having sex
Common Causes of Low Libido in Women
Several factors may cause low libido in women. Some of these may be due to hormonal, physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors, such as:
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Postpartum and breastfeeding
- Thyroid disorders
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
- Certain medications
- Negative past sexual experiences
- Hormonal birth control
- Pregnancy
- Relationship issues
- Stress, anxiety, or depression
- Excessive alcohol
These factors can influence how you feel about sex, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally. A single cause rarely shapes your libido; often, it’s the result of several overlapping issues.
Sexual challenges can also create a frustrating cycle. For instance, if intercourse is painful, you may avoid intimacy. That avoidance can then lead to stress, emotional distance, or relationship tension—which can lower your sexual desire even further.
Does HRT Increase Libido?
HRT can increase libido in women, but its effects may vary depending on individual hormone levels, the type of HRT used, and underlying causes of low sexual desire.
HRT is often given to women experiencing menopause or perimenopause to treat symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and night sweats caused by hormonal imbalances. In particular, estrogen-based HRT can help improve vaginal lubrication and pelvic blood flow, which will promote sexual comfort and desire.
In a study, women taking HRT therapy to treat symptoms of menopause, like hot flashes, experienced a 44% increase in sexual desire. According to these findings, researchers say that women who struggle with a decline in libido after menopause may benefit from the hormone treatment, which includes progesterone and estrogen.
As you go through menopause, your body generates fewer hormones, causing hormonal imbalances that often reduce sexual desire. HRT can help improve libido by replacing the hormones.
These hormones are mainly estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. When their levels decline, women may notice less interest in intimacy, vaginal dryness, and difficulty becoming aroused.
It’s important to remember that not every woman will respond to HRT in the same way. Some may notice improvements within weeks, while others may need time or adjustments in dosage and type of therapy.
What Is the Best HRT for Low Libido in Women?
The best HRT for low libido isn’t the same for every woman. It depends on your hormones, health history, and symptoms. A treatment plan that works well for one woman may not be effective for another, which is why it’s important to work with a qualified healthcare provider. That said, certain types of HRT can help restore sexual desire:
Estrogen therapy
Often recommended for women in perimenopause or postmenopause. Estrogen helps improve vaginal health, reduces dryness, and can make intimacy more comfortable and enjoyable.
Estrogen is given in many forms, including gels, sprays, patches, and pills. Vaginal creams and slow-releasing suppositories or rings contain smaller levels of estrogen. Our healthcare provider can help you understand the benefits and side effects of each form.
Testosterone therapy for women
While testosterone levels are lower in women than in men, this hormone plays an important role in female sexual function. The FDA has not approved testosterone for the treatment of female sexual conditions. However, it is occasionally given in carefully monitored low doses to help boost a lagging libido.
Women may benefit from testosterone that is administered to the blood through the skin. This treatment is tried for a maximum of six months at first. If beneficial, it’s maintained under careful supervision from a medical practitioner.
Possible Side Effects of HRT
While many women experience significant benefits from HRT, it can cause side effects, but these vary depending on the type of HRT, individual health factors, and duration of use.
Common side effects may include:
- Bloating
- Mood changes
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Mild nausea
These often improve as your body adjusts to treatment, but your provider may adjust your dose or type of HRT if they persist.
Potential risks may include stroke, blood clots, heart disease, and, in some cases, breast cancer; however, these are usually minimal and can be reduced with careful monitoring and the right choice of treatment.
At NP2GO, we encourage regular check-ins and lab work, which are essential to monitor your hormone levels, check progress, and reduce risks. This ensures your HRT plan remains safe, effective, and tailored to your body’s needs.
Lifestyle and Natural Ways to Boost Libido
While HRT is a great way to increase libido, there are natural and lifestyle ways that can help.
1. Eat a nutritious diet
What you eat directly affects hormone production, blood flow, and energy levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports hormone balance. Foods high in omega-3s, zinc, and antioxidants may help balance testosterone and boost circulation and mood.
2. Stay active
Regular exercise improves circulation, boosts mood, and helps regulate hormones. Even light activities such as walking, yoga, or strength training can enhance energy and confidence.
3. Strengthen emotional connection
It’s natural to experience a decline in sexual desire at some point in a relationship, especially if you’ve stayed together for a long time or if you sense issues in your intimate relationship. Focus on communication and emotional closeness with your partner. Plan date nights, or engage in activities together. Feeling connected can naturally boost sexual desire.
4. Get good-quality sleep
Good sleep can enhance your overall mood and energy levels. Research also links libido to quality sleep. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality rest each night to support hormone health.
5. Manage stress
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can interfere with sex hormones and reduce libido. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or prayer can help restore calm and balance.
Hormone Replacement Therapy with NP2GO Can Help Increase Your Libido
At NP2GO, we understand that conversations about your sex life can sometimes feel awkward or uncomfortable. But you’re not alone. Many women experience changes in their sex drive at some point in life, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Sexual health is a natural and important part of your overall well-being, and seeking support is the first step toward feeling better.
Our providers take the time to listen with compassion and without judgment. Whether you’re feeling concerned, overwhelmed, or simply unsure of what’s happening with your body, we’re here to guide you with clarity and care.
To get to the root of the problem, we offer comprehensive hormone testing that measures key sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, along with related hormones such as DHEA, thyroid hormones, and cortisol. This gives us a complete picture of your hormonal health. With these insights, our experienced team can design a personalized treatment plan that not only helps restore libido but also enhances your energy, mood, and overall wellness.
We offer telehealth visits and in-office care at our Edmond, Oklahoma, clinic, making it easy to access professional support.
Schedule your consultation with NP2GO today and take the first step toward restoring your libido.