Sexual desire is a topic that continually piques the curiosity of people worldwide, and losing interest in sex can be one of the most challenging issues couples face in a relationship.
Women and men often experience different patterns of aging, and a new study aimed to discover at which age women begin to lose interest in sex.
The Study
The study, conducted by Michigan State University, gathered data from 4,423 women aged 25-45 in the United States. The women were asked to keep track of their sexual activity and interest in sex using a questionnaire over a ten-year period.
Through in-depth analysis of the data, researchers could conclude when women start to lose interest in sex.
Findings of the Study
The study found that, on average, women tend to lose interest in sex over ten years slowly. Women typically reach their peak interest in sex in their early twenties.
But then, they experience a gradual decrease in sexual desire, with a more significant drop after turning 35 years old. The rate of decline was observed to be approximately 8% for each decade after age 25, with the sharpest decline occurring after 55 years old.
The study also found that women’s lifestyle factors such as stress, relationship satisfaction, and physical health had a significant influence on their sexual desire.
Women that are happy in their romantic relationship, healthy, and free of stress tend to have a higher interest in sex and be more satisfied with their sex life.
Factors That Affect Sexual Desire in Women
The loss of sexual desire, or hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), has been a topic of study for years. Researchers have determined several motivations that can lead to HSDD in women. Here are some of the most common ones:.
Hormones
Hormones are a significant contributor to sexual desire. Low levels of testosterone and estrogen in women can lead to a loss of sexual desire.
However, it is imperative to note that menopause is not the only cause of hormonal changes that impact sexual desire. Chemical imbalances and prescription drugs can also affect women’s hormones, leading to a decline in sexual desire.
Stress
The factors that stress women out like financial problems, work, or family-related issues can cause a significant lack of sexual drive.
According to various studies, 80% of women said stress levels in their lives impacted their sexual desire negatively.
Relationship Issues
Relationship problems like infidelity, lack of connection, and communication can lead to a decrease in sexual desire. Women in happy and healthy relationships tend to have more sexual interest and greater sexual satisfaction overall.
Physical Health
Chronic illnesses and physical discomfort, such as arthritis or back pain, can also lead to reduced sexual desire. Some medication side effects can also impact sexual desire.
It is crucial for women experiencing physical discomfort to consult with their doctor to determine ways to alleviate their discomfort and determine if medication is causing a decrease in libido.
What Can Be Done to Increase Sexual Desire in Women?
Loss of sexual desire can be frustrating to deal with. Here are some things women can do to increase their sexual desire.
Communicate with Your Partner:
If you’re not interested in sex, it is essential to communicate with your partner to find out what’s going on in your relationship that may be causing the disconnect.
Discussing the issue can open communication, rebuild intimacy, and take steps to rekindling sexual desire.
Get the necessary rest:
Getting enough sleep is essential for physical, mental, and emotional health. Regular exercise, yoga, and meditation can also be instrumental in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
Avoid Distractions:
Eliminate distractions in the bedroom and focus on spending intimate time with your partner.
Reduce digital device use before bedtime, ensure a relaxing environment with proper lighting, and avoid discussions or activities that may cause stress or anxiety before bedtime.
Consider Professional Help:
If you’re concerned about lost sexual desire, contact a physician to determine underlying hormonal or physical issues that may be contributing to the problem.
Medical professionals, sex therapists, and psychologists can offer assistance in helping women overcome loss of sexual desire.
Conclusion
The new study reveals that women’s sexual desire declines gradually over time, with a more significant decrease after age 35.
However, individual experiences can be influenced by lifestyle factors that can impact women’s overall satisfaction with sex. By practicing healthy habits and maintaining open communication, women can increase their sexual desire and overall well-being, providing long-term benefits to themselves and their relationships.