Low Sex Drive

Introduction: Why Low Sex Drive Needs an Integrative Approach

A decrease in libido or low sex drive is a common concern, particularly among women. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, fatigue, relationship issues, and underlying health conditions. At Patients Medical in New York City, we focus on understanding the root causes of your low libido rather than simply masking the symptoms. Our holistic approach combines conventional treatments with functional and natural therapies to help restore your sexual health and well-being, so you can feel energized, confident, and fulfilled.

What Is Low Sex Drive?

Low sex drive, or reduced libido, refers to a decrease in the desire or interest in sexual activity. While a decrease in sexual desire can be normal at certain stages of life, such as during menopause or after childbirth, it can also be a symptom of an underlying health issue. The condition can affect both men and women, though it is particularly common in women experiencing hormonal changes due to aging, childbirth, or other life events.

Common factors that may contribute to low sex drive include

The following symptoms often indicate an underlying gynecological issue:

Root Causes: Why Does Low Sex Drive Happen?

At Patients Medical, we take a functional medicine approach to uncover the root causes of your low libido. Here are some of the most common factors we look at:

  • Hormonal imbalances: Changes in estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can lead to decreased sexual desire.
  • Stress and emotional factors: High stress or unresolved emotional issues can reduce libido. Elevated cortisol from chronic stress can lower your energy and interest in sex.
  • Thyroid dysfunction: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can disrupt hormone levels and decrease sexual desire.
  • Chronic fatigue or sleep disturbances: Low energy levels and poor sleep can negatively affect sexual health.
  • Nutrient deficiencies: Low levels of key vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, magnesium, or zinc, can impact libido.
  • Medications and treatments: Certain medications, including antidepressants and birth control, may affect sexual drive.
  • Underlying health conditions: Diabetes, depression, or chronic pain conditions can also play a role.

By identifying and addressing these underlying causes, we create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we perform comprehensive diagnostic testing to understand the root causes of your low sex drive. Some of the tests we use include:

  • Hormone panels: To evaluate estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones.
  • Adrenal stress index: To measure cortisol levels and assess adrenal health.
  • Thyroid function tests: To rule out hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
  • Comprehensive metabolic panels: To evaluate overall health and detect underlying conditions like diabetes or nutritional deficiencies.
  • Sexual health assessments: Including physical exams and vaginal health evaluations.
  • Nutrient testing: To check for deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals like magnesium and vitamin D.

Integrative Treatments for Presyncope

Nutritional Therapy

  • Omega-3 fatty acids to support hormone production
  • Magnesium and zinc-rich foods to promote healthy reproductive function
  • Phytoestrogen-rich foods like soy, flaxseeds, and legumes to help balance estrogen levels
  • Adaptogenic herbs to reduce stress and promote energy
  • Vitamin D and B vitamins to improve mood, energy levels, and sexual function

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

  • Maca root: Known for its ability to boost libido and energy.
  • Tribulus terrestris: A natural herb that supports testosterone levels and sexual health.
  • Ashwagandha: An adaptogen that helps reduce stress and improve sexual function.
  • L-arginine: An amino acid that promotes blood flow and arousal.
  • Ginseng: A well-known herb that increases vitality and sexual drive.

Stress Reduction Techniques

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy for women experiencing menopause or perimenopause symptoms.
  • Testosterone therapy for women and men with low testosterone levels.
  • Thyroid optimization to address hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can impact libido.

Hormone Balancing

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy for women experiencing menopause or perimenopause symptoms.
  • Testosterone therapy for women and men with low testosterone levels.
  • Thyroid optimization to address hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can impact libido.

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • B vitamins to enhance energy and improve mood.
  • Vitamin C to support immune health and reduce stress.
  • Magnesium to promote relaxation and balance hormones.
  • Glutathione to detoxify and improve cellular health

Sexual Health Therapy

  • Couples counseling to improve communication and intimacy.
  • Sex therapy to address concerns like anxiety or performance issues.
  • Pelvic floor therapy to address physical discomfort and enhance sexual pleasure.

Real Case Study: Laura's Journey to Reversal

Laura, 41, came to us feeling frustrated by her lack of sexual desire. She had been struggling with stress, poor sleep, and a hectic work-life balance. After testing, we found hormonal imbalances, including low estrogen and high cortisol levels.

We designed a treatment plan that included:

  • BHRT to balance her estrogen levels
  • Herbal supplements like maca root and ashwagandha to boost libido and reduce stress
  • Stress reduction techniques like yoga and mindfulness meditation
  • IV vitamin therapy for quick replenishment of nutrients

Within three months, Laura experienced a significant increase in her libido, improved sleep, and reduced stress levels, restoring her sexual health and confidence.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Low sex drive can be caused by hormonal imbalances, stress, fatigue, emotional issues, relationship concerns, and medications.

Yes, chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which negatively impacts sexual desire. Stress reduction techniques can help restore libido.

Hormone therapy, nutritional support, stress management, and counseling are common treatments that can help address low sex drive.

Bioidentical hormone therapy is generally safe when monitored by a healthcare provider. It can help restore hormone balance and improve libido.

Many patients experience improvements within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment, although full benefits may take longer.

Yes, many women benefit from dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and natural supplements.

Herbs like maca root, tribulus, and ashwagandha, along with magnesium and vitamin D, are often used to support libido.

Acupuncture helps reduce stress, improve circulation, and balance energy, which can enhance sexual desire.

Yes, hormonal imbalances, particularly low estrogen or testosterone, can significantly affect sexual desire and performance.

While we are an out-of-network provider, we provide superbills for reimbursement, and lab tests may be partially covered by insurance.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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