Libido, Loss of
Background
Causes
Sexual dysfunction and loss of libido are common in the following scenarios:
Age related
As we age, we have lower estrogen and testosterone levels. This can be treated safely and effectively by holistic physicians using bioidentical hormones — in both men and women.
Chronic pain
Pain can cause a low testosterone level, as can treatment with codeine/narcotics.
Depression
Depression can cause low libido, and it is important to be able to talk about your feelings with your doctor and family.
Anti-depressants
Anti-depressants like Prozac can frequently cause severe loss of libido and sexual dysfunction.
Being unhappy
Being unhappy in general or in your relationship or how you feel about how you look can decrease libido.
CFS or FMS
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome cause loss of libido in 73% of cases.
Therapies & Advice
Treat low testosterone
If your testosterone level is in the lowest 30% of the normal range, consider treatment. Checking testosterone levels is appropriate in anyone, both male and female, with sexual dysfunction — especially in the presence of chronic pain. Your doctor will say the result is fine if it’s in the normal range (i.e., not in the lowest 2 % of the population), but this may still be the cause (see the problem with lab tests). When treating for low testosterone, use natural topical testosterone instead of synthetics.
In men over 50, who are not looking to father more children, natural prescription testosterone (Androgel or Testim) can be applied to the skin twice daily for a total daily dose of 50-100 mg. Testosterone cream can also be made much less expensively by compounding pharmacists. In men with low or low-normal testosterone who also had angina, high cholesterol, and/or diabetes, repeated studies have shown improvement in all 3 conditions when natural testosterone was used — and no increase in prostate cancer. Testosterone (1-4 mg a day — keep in the mid part of the normal range) can also help loss of libido in women. I start with 25-50 mg/day in men. Testosterone (1/2- 2 mg a day — keep in the mid part of the normal range) can also help loss of libido in women.
In men under 50 yo, I use the medication clomiphene 25 mg a night, which stimulates the man’s own testosterone production.
Check your antidepressants
Antidepressants are a major cause of loss of libido (and inability to orgasm). See Depression for effective natural alternatives, so you can come off your antidepressant and get your sex life back. If you do need a depression medication, Wellbutrin®, trazodone, or Remeron® do not seem to cause the sexual dysfunction caused by other anti-depressants.
Read the book
For more information, see the book Pain Free 1-2-3.
Recommended Supplements
Rhodiola®
Rhodiola® may reduce premature ejaculation and boost sexual desire in both men and women. Rhodiola also seems to revive sexual energy, provide increased pleasure, improve erections, and intensify orgasms, allowing for more satisfying sex.
Red ginseng
Red ginseng can also raise testosterone levels.
More Information Online
Can Testosterone Be Good for You?
Eliminate Depression — Naturally!
Enzymatic Therapy (more info on "Hot Plants" supplements at www.enzymatictherapy.com)