A woman’s libido can plummet around menopause, and it’s not always clear why. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone decline at this time, leading to a variety of symptoms including vaginal dryness and itching.
Luckily, hormone replacement therapy can help increase a woman’s sexual desire. However, it’s important to understand which hrt is best for libido.
Testosterone
Testosterone is an androgen (sex hormone) produced in the male body, it plays an important role in regulating sex drive as well as bone and muscle mass, fat distribution and the production of red blood cells and sperm. It is also important in the brain and can help with memory and concentration. A small amount of circulating testosterone is converted to estradiol, another androgen, in the ovaries. This conversion is needed for the ovaries to function normally and it is thought that changes often attributed to low libido in men are partly or entirely due to decreased levels of circulating testosterone.
Testosterone is also a key hormone for women, although the exact way it affects libido in women is less clear. It is thought that it may work peripherally to increase estradiol levels or it may act on the central nervous system by increasing reactivity of certain neuronal pathways.
Testosterone replacement therapy for women is available in the form of oral tablets, injections or gel. The gel is applied to the skin on a daily basis, it should be put on clean and dry skin and left to soak in before getting dressed and leaving the house. It is important to consult your doctor before beginning any hrt treatment. Your doctor will determine if you are a good candidate for hrt and will prescribe the right dosage for your specific needs.
Estrogen
Estrogen is the main female hormone, it helps regulate the menstrual cycle, control the development of the female sex organs and thickens the uterus lining to support pregnancy. Estrogen also has an effect on libido by increasing sexual desire. Estrogen is a steroid hormone, derived from the plant oestrogen and it can be taken in the form of a tablet or cream.
During perimenopause, estrogen levels start to drop, usually when a woman is in her 40s. This can lead to low libido, a condition known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). HRT can help increase libido and decrease other symptoms of perimenopause like hot flashes and night sweats.
Low estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness and shrinking of the vaginal tissue. This can lead to pain and discomfort during sex. Estrogen can help increase libido by increasing the thickness and elasticity of the vaginal walls and increasing the amount of lubrication.
The structural differences between a man and a woman are determined by the different amounts of testosterone and estrogen that are produced by their bodies. Estrogens can contribute to the difference in structure that is seen between a male and female body, including smaller and shorter bones, wider pelvis, more rounded hips, and buttocks. Estrogen can also boost libido in women by promoting arousal and orgasms.
Progesterone
Progesterone is a female sex hormone that plays a key role in your menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It belongs to a group of steroid hormones called progestogens, and it’s secreted by your corpus luteum in the ovary during the second half of your menstrual cycle (the luteal phase).
Like estrogen, progesterone is derived from cholesterol through a process called double oxidation. Your ovaries, adrenal glands, and placenta also make this substance. Progesterone helps prepare your body for conception and pregnancy, regulates the monthly menstrual cycle, and supports a healthy uterine endometrium.
Typically, a rise in progesterone signals the start of your ovulation cycle. It also promotes the development of the uterine endometrium and enables a fertilized egg to attach to the lining of your womb.
While pregnant women often experience a dip in libido during the second trimester, this is normal and expected due to the high levels of progesterone that are required to sustain a pregnancy. However, once you reach menopause, your libido may return to its pre-pregnancy levels.
There are a few natural ways to increase your progesterone levels, including taking maca powder in your smoothies or eating foods rich in this nutrient. Alternatively, you can consider HRT to balance your hormones and boost your libido in the perimenopausal or menopausal stages of life. Contact Cool Springs Gynecology in Brentwood, TN to learn more about this option and see if it is right for you.
DHEA
DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is an endogenous steroid hormone precursor that is produced in the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain. It is converted to the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen by enzymes in the body. It has been shown to improve libido in both men and women by stimulating the genital area and increasing blood flow. It also has anti-aging and immune-modulating effects. It is also available as a dietary supplement.
For some people, low levels of DHEA can cause a decrease in sexual desire. In these cases, it is important to determine the root cause of the low libido and address it. This could include addressing stress, medication use, or nutrient deficiencies. Taking a 3-minute libido test can help identify these issues.
In addition to DHEA, there are many ways to increase libido naturally. These include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sleep. Practicing meditation or other relaxation techniques can also help reduce stress and increase libido.
It is also important to remember that there are risks associated with taking too much DHEA, including masculinizing effects such as loss of facial hair or a deeper voice, increased aggression, and increased sperm count. It is best to work with a doctor to ensure that you are taking the proper dosage for your needs. This can be done through a saliva or blood adrenal panel, and it is important to follow up with a doctor to monitor your results.
