Decreased Libido & Sexual Dysfunction During Menopause
Menopause associated decrease in libido & sexual dysfunction is associated with a decrease in the five elements of sexual function: 1) sexual desire, 2) sexual arousal, 3) sexual response, 4) sexual orgasm & 5) sexual satiety. These symptoms are primarily attributed to inadequate levels and poor function of testosterone. However inadequate levels or poor function of estrogen can also be responsible for decreased function in any of the five elements of sexual function.
Testosterone is an androgen that is the most important hormone for maintaining sex drive in women, and testosterone deficiency, or poor testosterone function, can cause impaired sexual function. Testosterone improves dopamine activity, which is important for sex drive. Normal testosterone levels can result in increases sexual satisfaction, increases responsive to sexual activity, and increases frequency of sexual activity. DHEA (another androgen) assists testosterone in maintaining proper sexual function. In fact, if DHEA is too low, sexual function will be decreased even if testosterone levels are good. If there are other symptoms of low testosterone, in addition to the heart palpitations, then TestoGain™ may be a good choice.
Estradiol can directly increase sexual desire, interest and responsiveness. It also plays a role in increasing vaginal lubrication and satisfaction during sex. The presence of vaginal dryness and lack of lubrication, are contributory, and sometimes the primary cause for decreased sexual desire – often due to an association with discomfort. Consider EstroMend™ if there are other symptoms low estrogen.
A combination of vaginal symptoms may be seen when there is decreased function of both estrogens and testosterone. Restoring optimal function of both estrogens and androgens can significantly benefit vaginal health.
Since it is possible to have more than one hormone imbalance, more than one of the Hormone Specific™ Formulations may be appropriate. Look at the symptoms associated with each major hormone imbalance to help you determine the most likely cause of these symptoms.
Consider TestoGain™ if you have other symptoms of low testosterone, which may include decreased libido; less sexual fantasies or less sexual desire; less likely to become sexually aroused; less pleased with sex; feeling more irritable; feeling less composed and in control; feeling less motivated in general; less assertive; less energetic; becoming anemic, or think you are anemic; low blood pressure; less muscle strength; you feel weaker; having more trouble with mental skills requiring logic and problem solving; having trouble focusing and maintaining your attention; memory weakening; trouble remembering things and events; feel more depressed; mood is low; less confident; feeling frightened or afraid.
Consider EstroMend™ if you have other symptoms associated with low estrogen, which may include hot flashes; night sweats; feeling more depressed; more withdrawn or isolated; feel periods of hopelessness; feel apathetic; feel a loss of energy; feel more fatigued; feel less receptive to sex; feel less sensual; feel that your sex drive is diminished; increased vaginal pain, dryness or itching; insomnia, difficulty falling to sleep or difficulty staying asleep; trouble with your memory; having trouble remembering names; more forgetful; mood is low, less upbeat, less positive or less outgoing; less “good moods’ and times of joy; caring less about things that used to matter to you; trouble controlling your urine; have to urinate more often; spill urine when you cough or sneeze; your perception is weakening, it takes you longer to notice things; trouble thinking of the right word when speaking or writing; your mental skills are diminishing.
Other Considerations
Even though decreased libido and sexual dysfunction with menopause may simply be due to changes in hormones that can be addressed with one or more of the Hormone Specific™ Formulations, it is important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare professional to make sure that there is not a more serious medical condition that needs to be addressed.
If there are other symptoms that may be due to menopause changes, consider using the Menopause Type® Questionnaire to do a more comprehensive analysis of which hormone problems may be involved.