Questions & Answers : menopause symptoms, low sex drive

Androgen treatments

Editor — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:33:00 GMT

Question:

I had a hysterectomy in 2000. I was 40 years old at the time. I have no sex drive at all, but I am also on opioids for back pain. Would that affect my sex drive? What kind of medication would you suggest to increase libido.

Jewels

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Answer:

There are androgen treatments that might help with your low libido, but they are not without side effects. You’ll need to talk to your doctor about these prescription medicines. Lifestyle changes may also help – getting more active (pursued cautiously, this avenue might help your back, too), improving eating or developing more intimacy with your partner.

Low sex drive and depression

Editor — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:31:00 GMT

Question:

My wife is almost 48. She is in great physical condition. We had a great relationship until a few months ago. She says she has not started menopause yet and won't for a few more years. However, she seems to be having multiple periods and also seems depressed. Her sex drive seems, at least to me, to be a lot lower. She seems more intolerant of me, et cetera. Could she be going into menopause?

Neil

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Answer:

Yes. The symptoms you are describing are common in women experiencing perimenopause, which is the period that precedes menopause by as much as five years, and can follow menopause for another year.

Natural vitamins to boost sex drive

Editor — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 16:51:00 GMT

Question:

I am 53 years of age and I seem to have no sex drive. I am tired all the time. I weigh approximately 155 lbs at a height of 5'7". I am trying to lose some weight and eat healthier. I have started to exercise a little. Are there any natural vitamins I could take to help? My relationship is suffering.

Verna

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Answer:

A change in sex drive can accompany menopause. You mention being tired – are symptoms of menopause interfering with your sleep? Fatigue can impact sex drive. HRT might help, if that’s the case. Androgen therapy may also help with sex drive although, like all hormone therapies, it’s not without potential risks. You’re taking some good steps in exercising, eating better, and losing excess weight. Keep up the good work, and try to keep the lines of communication open with your partner. See a doctor – there may be a medical solution.