Low Libido Is NOT a Disease

In a recent interview with Linda Ryan, Co-Founder of The Sense of Smell Lab, a company that researches and develops products that use the sense of smell for health and wellness, she had much to say about the issue of low libido.

Her bottom line? Don't see it as a disease.

According to Ryan, the intimacy and pleasure that comes from a healthy, satisfying sex life are the essential feelings of a happy, loving relationship. It is the desire to express your unique sexuality into your relationship that builds the comfort, security and satisfaction inherent in a healthy sex life.

So when the desire for sexual closeness wanes or in many cases disappears completely, it can become very distressing and even unhealthy.

Every one's sex drive changes over time, this is only natural. A change in your libido is completely normal and is triggered by relationship issues, social factors, religious beliefs, work and family stress and your lifestyle choices.

Physical conditions, such pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, medical conditions and the use of prescription drugs also play a role in your level of sexual response.

Says Ryan, "f you're dealing with with low libido, you are not alone. Many women are frustrated with the lack of intimacy in their relationship and wish for those days when there was a thrill in holding hands, caressing skin and making love.

"Studies on female sexuality suggest that over 40% of women suffer from some form of female sexual dysfunction disorder (FSDD). However such numbers should be seen with caution."

The basis for FSDD is based on shaky criteria since no one can define what the benchmark of sexual desire in women actually is. Female sexual desire is a personal experience which cannot be quantified by scientific measuring.

"Low libido may be a problem but it's NOT a disease. Most often, it is a state of mind," says Ryan. "Unless these is a physical reason, remember that low libido is often a temporary situation, not your future experience. Don´t be fooled into thinking you have a disease and that swallowing a pill will provide a quick solution."

The physical, mental and emotional consequences of low libido are too numerous to ignore. They impact your health, complicate your thoughts and compromise your feelings.

However it doesn't have to be that way. There are things you can do to help your libido bounce back.

Most important is making your sexuality a priority. Talking to your partner -- the first step to dealing with most issues relating to sexual health -- is essential. After all, he/she is part of the problem.

And there are the obvious things, like diet and exercise, addressing physical issues, paying attention to your sexual health, learning about libido and being alert to the subtle messages of your body. Oftentimes, a slight adjustment is all that´s needed for balance to return.

Ryan says that sexual response is a delicate interplay of body, mind and emotions. You are designed to express your sexuality. Expressing your unique sexual current in the context of a safe and trusting relationship is the key to sexual fulfillment.