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Menopause is the last phase of a women's reproductive life and is known to contribute to a loss of libido and sexual drive. It can begin in the period known as the pre-menopause when the production of the hormones progesterone, oestrogen and even testosterone, starts to diminish. Hormones are those chemical substances that the body uses to regulate the different functions. Oestrogen is related to sexual desire, whilst testosterone, normally associated with men, is responsible for the sexual urge. This reduced level of hormones can also lead to a lack of energy, depression and the libido shrinks to almost zero.When you consider all the other symptoms, such as hot flushes, depression, weight gain irritability and so on, it is no wonder that the libido has gone out the window.
The most common therapy that your doctor will prescribe is HRT, hormone replacement therapy which many women find a perfect solution, even if there are some unwanted side affects. This covers oestrogen and progesterone only, so you will need to discuss with your doctor about the possibility of him prescribing testosterone as well.
You may also find over the counter remedies that contain plant derived estrogens that offer to combat the menopause and loss of libido which may be worth trying if you do not wish to go on a course of HRT therapy. You may also benefit, in the same way by eating more soya based products like tofu or soya milk which contain the same substances.
Diet can also play a part in helping with the menopause. Increasing your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as oily fish, such as mackerel, sardines or salmon will boost your intake of vitamins C, E and B6 as well as calcium, magnesium and folic acid or you could take supplements.
Other reasons for loss of libido can be entirely physical such as vaginal dryness and a lack of confidence due the change of your body shape. Vaginal dryness is easily overcome by using one of the many intimate lubricants that are readily available from the pharmacy or supermarket or there are certain gels or creams that will physically stimulate the clitoris, which can even help you to multiple orgasms. Body shape is more difficult to deal with. You need to accept that you are a twenty something and that this is just the ageing process. It will be difficult but it's a fact. You can modify the effect though, by diet and exercise. It will be difficult, especially if you are depressed as well, but you don't need to go to the gym and work out like a wrestler. Start with a short walk and gradually increase the length of it. This form of exercise is great for helping to combat depression as well.
Menopause and the loss of libido don't have to go hand in hand if you are prepared for it and are willing to do something about it because when it comes back, think of all the great sex you can have without the risk of getting pregnant. Now there's thought.
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