A common experience among patients is a decline in sex drive. For women, this often occurs when they lose their ability to ovulate (producing progesterone). For men, this decline is typically associated with decreasing testosterone levels as they age. To better understand the biochemical basis of these changes, let’s examine each process in detail.

In women, the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge from the hypothalamus initiates the stimulation of the ovary to produce a follicle. Numerous studies confirm that women experience an increase in sexual desire during this period, which enhances the chance of ovulation and successful reproduction. The release of pheromones induce males to engage in intercourse with females at this time. Interestingly, intercourse is proportionately higher during this phase of the cycle for teenagers having sex for the first time.

Obviously, birth control pills interrupt this process, thereby causing a dramatic decrease in sexual frequency for the majority of these patients. It appears that the conversion of progesterone to testosterone in females contributes to continued increased sexual desire during the luteal phase; however, testosterone is not the primary initiator in this biochemical cascade.

As observed in patients undergoing pellet therapy, an overdose of testosterone can lead to a dramatic increases in libido when testosterone levels reach astronomical heights. However, we find these effects to be temporary. The suppression of adrenal gland function and the resulting lack of hormone balance eventually take over, causing the initial effect to become muted. Subsequently, it requires increasingly higher doses of testosterone to achieve the same effect, until serious side effects occur, ultimately necessitating the termination of this approach.

Based on our extensive experience at Hormonify, it typically takes three to four months of properly balanced replacement therapy to help a woman develop a healthy sex drive.

We have also found that body image issues significantly influence a woman’s sense of sexuality. Weight gain can contribute to these concerns and needs to be addressed as part of a comprehensive approach to sexual health.

Very commonly, females present with vaginal dryness, which causes painful intercourse. This condition, known as atrophic vaginitis, can be resolved fairly quickly; however, the fear of pain may linger until some time has passed. Good communication between partners needs to be established to help resolve this issue without creating anxiety over sexual activity.

In men, the production of testosterone naturally decreases over time. Low levels need to be identified and treated. Importantly, the adrenal gland needs to be assessed and any deficiencies treated to avoid failure. Estrogen levels must be monitored closely and managed to prevent the feminizing effects of elevated estradiol. Some of our patients have issues beyond testosterone deficiency that limit their sexual function. Certain medications, including anti-hypertensives, antidepressants, and some cardiac medications, can inhibit proper blood flow to the genitalia and reduce function and desire. Long-standing erectile dysfunction can be due to low sex hormone levels and should be evaluated before other measures are taken.

Of course, there are a multitude of social, emotional, and psychological factors that contribute to human sexual desire and function. Sexuality for humans is more than just procreation; it represents the end result of a complex system of biochemical, neurological, and hormonal processes that may need to be addressed.

In conclusion, sexual health and hormone balance are intricately connected, affecting both men and women throughout their lives. At Hormonify, we understand the complexity of these issues and are committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care. Our approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms; we aim to restore balance and improve overall quality of life.

On Your Next Visit: We encourage you to be open and candid with our providers about the symptoms you may be experiencing. This transparency allows us to accurately address your concerns and provide the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Warm regards,