Does menopause cause low sex drive?

Changing hormone levels may affect sexual desire, arousal and genital comfort. Vaginal dryness or soreness can make intimacy less comfortable, while hot flushes and disrupted sleep can leave you tired. Stress, relationship concerns, low mood, medicines and health conditions can also influence interest in sex.

These changes are personal and may come and go. Low desire does not by itself identify one cause, and it is reasonable to seek help if it bothers you or affects a relationship.

Use a suitable lubricant during sex and discuss ongoing dryness or pain with a clinician, who may suggest moisturising products or other treatment. Make time for rest, address sleep disruption and review medicines that may affect desire. Counselling or relationship support can be useful when stress or communication is part of the picture.

Arrange an appointment for persistent pain, bleeding after sex, unusual discharge, recurrent urinary symptoms or a sudden change in desire that concerns you. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding or fever with pelvic symptoms.

Could dryness, pain, sleep, mood or a medicine be affecting my desire? What options can improve comfort? Would a sexual-health or counselling referral help?