Why does genitourinary syndrome of menopause cause low sex drive?

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause can cause vaginal dryness, burning, soreness, reduced flexibility, or pain during penetration. Urinary urgency and repeated discomfort can also make sexual activity feel less appealing. When the body expects pain or irritation, desire may fall and arousal may be harder to maintain. Hormonal changes can contribute, but relationships, mood, sleep, stress, medicines, and other health conditions may also affect libido. Low sex drive by itself does not identify one cause.

Book an appointment if reduced desire troubles you or affects closeness. Describe pain, dryness, urinary symptoms, mood, sleep, and medicines rather than focusing only on libido. A clinician can look for treatable causes and discuss lubricants, vaginal moisturisers, local hormonal treatment, pelvic floor support, or relationship and sexual counselling when suitable. Take intimacy at a pace that feels comfortable, and stop if there is pain. Non-penetrative intimacy may help you stay connected while symptoms are addressed.

Seek prompt review for pain that is severe or worsening, bleeding after sex, new discharge or sores, fever, or urinary symptoms with back pain or feeling unwell. Arrange an assessment if low desire begins suddenly after a medicine change, is accompanied by persistent low mood, or continues despite attention to dryness and pain.

Could genitourinary symptoms be contributing to my reduced desire? What can help dryness or pain? Are any of my medicines affecting libido? Would local hormonal treatment, pelvic floor therapy, or counselling be appropriate?