What should you know about loss of libido during menopause?

During perimenopause and menopause, changing hormone levels may occur alongside hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, and changes in vaginal comfort. Dryness or pain can make sexual activity feel difficult, while fatigue and stress can leave less room for desire.

Desire is also affected by mood, body image, relationship circumstances, and medicines. Depression, burnout, an underactive thyroid, and type 2 diabetes may affect energy or sexual function. Reduced libido is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and several contributors can exist together.

Keep a note of when symptoms occur and whether dryness, pain, sleep, mood, or hot flushes are involved. Make an appointment if the change is persistent or troubling. A clinician can review medicines, check relevant symptoms, and discuss options for vaginal comfort or wider menopause care.

Lubricant may reduce friction during sexual activity, and a vaginal moisturiser may help ongoing dryness for some people. Talk openly with a partner about pace and comfort. Do not force activity that hurts, and do not alter prescribed medicines without advice.

Arrange prompt assessment for bleeding after sex, unexplained vaginal bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, a new pelvic lump, or unusual discharge. Seek urgent help for severe pain, heavy bleeding, faintness, or thoughts of self-harm. These warning signs need review independently of how frequently low desire occurs.

Ask whether dryness or another symptom is contributing, which products may ease discomfort, whether menopause treatment could help, and whether mood, thyroid, glucose, or medicine review is appropriate.