Low libido & sexual wellbeing
Losing interest in sex is very common, especially in midlife. You're not broken, and you're not alone. There's usually a reason, and there's real help.
Private, judgement free care. Our appointments don't include internal examinations.
Desire is about more than hormones
We look at all three together.
What is low libido?
Libido is your interest in sex, and it naturally rises and falls over your life. Low libido only becomes a problem when it bothers you, or affects your relationship or how you feel about yourself.
It's one of the most common changes women notice in perimenopause and menopause, but also after having a baby, during stressful times, or when other health problems are going on. Many women feel embarrassed to mention it, so they put up with it for years. You don't have to.
Why desire changes
There's rarely just one reason. Usually it's a mix of these:
Body
- Falling estrogen and testosterone
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort
- Tiredness and poor sleep
- Low iron, thyroid problems
- Some medicines, such as certain antidepressants and pills
Mind
- Stress and feeling overwhelmed
- Low mood or anxiety
- Body confidence
- Feeling disconnected from yourself
Life
- Busy work and family life
- Caring for others
- Changes in your relationship
- Sex that has become uncomfortable
Dryness and discomfort
When sex feels uncomfortable or painful, it's natural to lose interest. Vaginal dryness is very common as estrogen falls, and it's also one of the easiest things to treat.
Every day
Vaginal moisturisers
Used regularly to keep tissues comfortable, not just during sex.
During sex
Lubricants
Make sex more comfortable straight away. We can suggest gentle options.
Prescribed
Vaginal estrogen
A low dose cream, gel or pessary that restores comfort. Very safe for most women.
Please see your GP if you have new pain during sex, bleeding after sex, or any unusual discharge, as these need an examination.
How we can help
We bring medical care and nutrition together in one plan, to find what's behind the change and help you feel like yourself again.
Medical care
From our doctor
- A private conversation to find the cause
- Blood tests, such as hormones, thyroid, iron and vitamin D
- A review of medicines that can lower libido
- HRT, if you're perimenopausal or menopausal
- Testosterone, where appropriate
- Vaginal estrogen for dryness and discomfort
Nutrition support
From our nutritionist
- Fuel your body for steadier energy
- Find and fix gaps in iron, B12, vitamin D and zinc
- Steady blood sugar for better mood and energy
- Support with alcohol, sleep and stress
- Kind support with weight and body confidence
Your plan looks at five areas together, not just your hormones:
- Hormones
- Nutrition
- Movement
- Sleep
- Stress
How food supports your sexual wellbeing
Desire needs energy, and energy starts with how well your body is fuelled. We look closely at your micronutrients and eating habits, because tiredness, low iron and blood sugar dips can all quietly lower your libido. Some nutrients play a direct role: zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood, and iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Personalised to you
Your eating plan for energy and wellbeing
There's no one size fits all. Our nutritionist builds your plan around your symptoms, your test results and the foods you enjoy, so it actually works for you.
Extra support
Sometimes talking to a specialist therapist can help too. We can point you to trusted services:
Psychosexual therapy
Specialist talking therapy for sexual worries, such as through the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists.
Relationship support
Counselling for you and your partner, such as through Relate.
Your GP
For anything that needs an examination, such as new pain or bleeding.
Your first appointment
An unhurried 60 minute consultation, online or in person. Before your visit, we'll send a short, private questionnaire, so you don't have to say everything out loud. We'll talk through what's changed, explain what might be behind it in plain English, and give you a written plan for treatment and nutrition.
“My mum was told it was just her age for years. We started Menopause Angels so that you're listened to the first time.”
“I was too embarrassed to bring it up with my GP. The team made it feel completely normal. Between treatment for the dryness and fixing my energy, I feel like myself again, and my relationship is better for it.”
Common questions
Is it normal to lose interest in sex in menopause?
Yes, it's very common, but that doesn't mean you have to accept it. Falling hormones, dryness, tiredness and stress all play a part, and most of these can be helped.
Can testosterone help?
For some women, yes. UK guidance supports testosterone for low sexual desire in menopause when HRT alone hasn't helped enough. Results vary from woman to woman, so we'll talk through whether it's right for you and review how you feel.
Will I need an internal examination?
No. Our appointments don't include internal examinations. If something needs examining, such as new pain or bleeding, we'll explain why and guide you to your GP.
Can my partner come to the appointment?
Yes, if you'd like them to. Some women prefer to come alone, and that's completely fine too.