Low Libido
Low libido, also known as low sex drive, is a decrease in sexual desire. It’s common to experience and can be temporary or long-term. All genders can experience low libido, which may be lifelong or acquired and therefore treatments may vary accordingly.
We commonly observe and treat libido changes in people experiencing:
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Low testosterone (men and women)
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Perimenopause/Menopause
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Lactation
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Pelvic pain or painful sex
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During or after use of oral contraceptives
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During or after use of SSRIs or Finasteride (Post-Medication Sexual Dysfunction)
We take a biopsychosocial (biological, psychological, and social) approach to treating bothersome low libido, as it can stem from a combination of physical, neurological, hormonal, psychological, and interpersonal factors. We will do a detailed examination of your hormones and genital tissue health and then work closely with you to build a treatment plan and team that may include sex therapists, couples therapists, and/or physical therapists if needed.
Treatments
When indicated, testosterone replacement therapy for all genders can often help with bothersome low libido.
In addition, there are two FDA-approved treatments for chronic bothersome low libido in premenopausal women. The first is called Addyi® (flibanserin), which is an oral pill taken nightly. The second is called Vylessi® (bremelanotide), which is a subcutaneous injection done about 45 minutes prior to sexual activity. Literature and safety data also support the use of these two treatments off-label for postmenopausal women and for men experiencing low libido.
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We believe in treatment that incorporates educational resources as well as sex therapy to help with the psychological and social aspects of low libido. We find coupling aforementioned medicines with sex therapy can have significant impact of low libido.
We only treat low libido when the symptoms are bothersome. It’s important to see a healthcare provider if a dip in your libido is causing you distress. You do not have to suffer with low libido—we can help you find the treatment plan that works for you.
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Resources
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​30-minute podcast: Meds for Low Desire on “You Are Not Broken” Podcast
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50-minute podcast: Understanding Your Options for Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Better Man Clinics Podcast
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4-minute video: Testosterone for couples
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5-minute video: Transforming Low Libido for women
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Article/Interview: The evolution in the treatment of female hypoactive sexual desire disorder
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Research paper: “The clinical management of testosterone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder: a review”
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Book: Come As You Are