Depression

How Depression Can Impact Libido

Depression can impact every aspect of an individual’s life, including their sex life. Low self-esteem, lack of confidence, feelings of hopelessness, feelings of fatigue, and poor mental health can all lower libido which can lead to other sexual health issues such as anorgasmia (trouble reaching orgasm).

Libido is influenced by depression through biological factors. Neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain, play a crucial role in communication between the brain, the origin of sexual desire, and the sex organs. When the brain senses sexual desire, it causes the body to respond by increasing blood flow to the sex organs, which triggers arousal. In an individual with depression, these sex-related chemicals are out of balance and can result in low or non-existent sexual desire and sexual satisfaction. This can be the case whether you have a major depressive disorder or moderate depression.

Symptoms of Depression

  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Outbursts, irritability, and frustration
  • Loss of interest in normal activities
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Tiredness and lack of energy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Anxiety
  • Trouble thinking and concentrating
  • Body aches and pains

Tips For Treating Depression and Sexual Function

Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes lifestyle changes alone can help to diminish sexual dysfunction due to depression and depression symptoms. These include:

  • Avoiding drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, which can impact sexual function.
  • Engaging in physical fitness and eating a healthy diet to maintain a healthy body weight.
  • Speaking honestly and openly with partners regarding mental and physical health
  • Working with a healthcare professional to choose medications with few side effects.

Antidepressant Medications

Depression is often treated with antidepressant medication, but certain antidepressants may actually make sexual dysfunction worse.  Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in particular are known to cause decreased sex drive, desire, arousal, and orgasm. Before beginning an antidepressant to treat depression, patients should speak with their healthcare provider to discuss possible sexual side effects.  

Addressing Menopause

Because depression is a common symptom of menopause, it is important that patients discuss menopausal symptoms when seeking treatment for depression. Often hormone replacement therapy can obviate the need for antidepressant medications. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, offered in pellet form, can help to address depression symptoms associated with menopause, restoring your healthy sex life.

Communicate with Your Partner

When you are depressed, it can be hard to talk about the way you are feeling, especially when your depression is affecting such an intimate part of your life. Intimacy involves two individuals, and engaging in open discussions with your partner helps in recognizing and understanding both your sexual needs and desires. Seeing a sex therapist with your partner can also shed light on ways to improve your communication and sexual functioning.

CONTACT US TODAY

When depression is associated with other menopausal symptoms, many women will find that restoring deficient hormones leads to improved mood and restoration of a healthy libido. At Tideline Center for Health & Aesthetics, our team will create a personalized treatment plan for an improved quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does depression cause loss of libido?

One significant symptom of depression is low libido. Low libido can also occur as a result of certain types of medications used to treat depression.

If I am depressed, will my libido decrease?

You may see a decline in sex drive when experiencing symptoms of depression. You may not want or think about sex as often – these are perfectly understandable and normal.

Why is my libido so low?

Low libido is a very complicated symptom that has a variety of causes. Most often, stress, medications, and relationship problems are major contributors to low libido.

Will I ever get my libido back?

Changes in libido are temporary, and in fact, it’s normal for your libido to fluctuate throughout life. Treatment with an intimate health provider can help you reclaim a level of intimate desire that feels comfortable and natural.

What does low libido feel like?

Low libido often manifests as an avoidance of sex or sexual propositions from partners. You may also find that you don’t think about sex as often or have desires or fantasies. Most importantly, these things may cause you distress and put a strain on your intimate relationships.

Is low libido mental or physical?

Libido is complex and multifaceted. Low libido may be caused by mental factors, such as poor mental health or relationship stressors, as well as physical factors, such as illness or the use of certain medications.

Our Trusted Hormone Balancing Solutions

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