Sexual health is an important part of overall well-being, yet it’s a topic many women hesitate to discuss—even with their healthcare provider. Low libido, or reduced sexual desire, is a very common concern, and it can affect women of all ages. While occasional fluctuations in desire are normal, persistent low libido can impact self-esteem, relationships, and quality of life.

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, we approach sexual health with sensitivity and a whole-person perspective. Understanding why women may experience low libido is the first step toward finding effective solutions.

Understanding Female Libido

Libido is influenced by a complex interaction of physical, hormonal, emotional, and relational factors. Unlike men, where testosterone levels play a dominant role, women’s sexual desire is shaped by multiple systems working together. This is why uncovering the root cause is so important.

Common Causes of Low Libido in Women

1. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a central role in regulating sexual desire.

• Menopause: Falling estrogen and testosterone levels can reduce libido while also causing vaginal dryness and discomfort during intimacy.
• Postpartum changes: After childbirth, hormone fluctuations combined with fatigue and breastfeeding can temporarily lower desire.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can impact sexual health.

2. Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress, anxiety, or depression are among the most common contributors to low libido. Elevated cortisol levels interfere with the brain’s ability to activate desire, while mental fatigue makes it difficult to focus on intimacy.

3. Relationship Dynamics

Emotional connection plays a huge role in women’s sexual health. Unresolved conflict, lack of communication, or feeling disconnected from a partner can significantly affect desire.

4. Medications

Certain medications—such as antidepressants (SSRIs), birth control pills, or blood pressure drugs—can interfere with libido. Adjustments made in consultation with a healthcare provider can often help.

5. Medical Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disease, chronic fatigue, and pelvic pain can all play a role in lowering sexual interest. For many women, treating the underlying health condition is key.

6. Nutrient Deficiencies

Low vitamin D, zinc, or B vitamins can affect energy, mood, and hormone balance—all of which impact libido. Through our functional medicine program, we frequently uncover and correct nutrient imbalances that patients didn’t know were contributing to their symptoms.

How Functional Medicine Helps

At Sheen Vein, we believe in addressing the root cause of low libido rather than just masking symptoms. Our functional medicine approach may include:

• Hormone testing and balancing – Evaluating estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid, and cortisol levels.
• Nutrient optimization – Correcting deficiencies to improve energy and mood.
• Stress management strategies – Supporting nervous system balance through lifestyle, supplements, or adaptogens.
• Addressing circulation – Since blood flow plays a role in arousal, we often integrate therapies like red light therapy and PRP/PRF to support pelvic health.

Regenerative and Aesthetic Support

Beyond functional medicine, our aesthetic and regenerative therapies can directly enhance sexual health:

• PRP/PRF vaginal rejuvenation: Uses growth factors from your own blood to improve sensitivity, lubrication, and arousal.
• Laser treatments: Improve circulation and collagen production in intimate tissues, reducing discomfort and supporting sexual response.
• Red light therapy with PEMF: Boosts cellular energy and overall vitality, which can improve sexual wellness indirectly.

When to Seek Help

If low libido persists for more than a few months and affects your quality of life or relationships, it’s time to talk with a healthcare professional. Symptoms to look out for include:

• Ongoing lack of sexual desire despite opportunities for intimacy
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Fatigue or mood changes tied to low interest
• Relationship distress caused by mismatched desire

Final Thoughts

Low libido in women is common, but it is not something you have to “just live with.” Whether the root cause is hormonal, emotional, nutritional, or relational, there are solutions available. At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, we specialize in blending functional medicine with regenerative therapies to help women restore balance, confidence, and intimacy.

👉 Call our office today to schedule a private consultation and begin your journey toward healthier sexual wellness.

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