Health topics · Vaginal, bladder, pelvic and sexual health
Low desire
Changes in desire are common, and you can get help.
Education only. This page gives general information. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you are worried about a symptom, see your general practitioner or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000.
Why desire changes
Desire is shaped by hormones, sleep, mood, stress, pain, medicines, body image and relationships. In midlife many of these change at once.
What helps
- Treat anything that makes sex uncomfortable first, such as dryness or pain
- Review medicines that can lower desire, such as some antidepressants
- Look after sleep and mood
- Talk with your partner, or a counsellor or sex therapist
- For some postmenopausal women with low desire that causes distress, a specialist may consider testosterone therapy
Talk to your doctor
Low desire is only a problem if it bothers you. If it does, it is a valid reason to see your doctor.
Talk to us
Our free workshops cover this and more, in plain language, with time for questions. See our programmes or get support.