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I've Lost My Sex Drive: Can Hormone Replacement Therapy Help?
Studies show 1 million-2.5 million women in the United States over 40 use hormone or bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT/BHRT). A primary reason women use these is to address hormonal deficiencies to improve their sex drive.
Compassionate OB/GYN Dr. Dean Hildahl and his expert team at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics in Naples, Florida, offer hormone replacement therapy to help you counteract declines in your sex drive, energy levels, and more.
How hormone replacement helps
Testosterone and estrogen play a part in the female libido. Manufactured within the tissues and ovaries, estrogen levels drop during menopause, and testosterone gradually declines with age.
Dr. Hildahl employs BHRT to improve his patients’ sexual responsiveness, as it boosts energy, improves sleep, and brightens mood.
The doctor also suggests various holistic adjustments, such as managing stress through meditation and yoga and improving health through diet and exercise.
What are bioidentical hormones?
The endocrine system releases hormones from the brain that travel throughout the body. Bioidentical hormones mimic the hormones the body naturally creates.
BHRT is compounded into various delivery systems, such as:
- Creams
- Pills
- Sprays
- Vaginal inserts
- Gels
Dr. Hildahl checks your current hormone levels and orders a customized combination of hormones based on your specific needs.
BHRT vs. HRT
BHRT uses plants to create hormones chemically identical to those our bodies naturally produce. HRT uses synthetic hormones similar but not identical to the ones our bodies make. BHRT offers a more natural option for those concerned about the risks associated with HRT.
How hormones affect your libido
Hormones influence both sexes in myriad ways. In females, they play a part in arousal and general well-being. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone contribute to:
- Vaginal lubrication
- Blood flow to the sex organs
- Sleep cycle
- Sexual desire
- Energy
Estrogen, in particular, helps regulate dopamine and serotonin levels, which enhance feelings of intimacy. When estrogen levels fall, a woman may experience vaginal dryness and thinning and a higher risk of bacterial and yeast infections due to disruption of her vaginal pH balance.
HRT has been shown to treat a variety of menopausal issues, from hot flashes to vaginal dryness. Dr. Hildahl aims to correct low levels of testosterone and estrogen, increasing pelvic blood flow, vaginal nerve sensitivity and lubrication, and arousal.
Lifestyle adjustments
Hormonal therapy works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Hildahl recommends:
- Regular exercise to improve mood, energy level, and blood flow
- A balanced diet with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin D
- Stress-reduction techniques, including mindfulness exercises, yoga, and meditation
The doctor helps you decide whether hormone replacement therapy is the best way to improve sexual desire and other issues, from fatigue to weight gain.
The road to sexual satisfaction
Dr. Hildahl weighs the benefits and risks to recommend the best course of action. Should you decide to proceed, we discuss all your options.
To discuss hormone replacement therapy or other issues, or book your next exam, schedule a consultation by phone or online today at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics.
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