Women’s Day: How Female Sex Drive Changes In Your 20s, 30s, 40s And Beyond

As you age, you're likely to go through some highs and lows in your sex drive due to changes in your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, and life.

It is true that libido decreases with age - Of course, you will not notice a significant difference in your libido when you enter a new decade, but factors that affect your libido tend to change as you progress from your 20s to your 40s and beyond [1].

How Female Sex Drive Changes

There is a natural fluctuation in women's sexual desires throughout their lives. These highs and lows often coincide with the beginning or end of a relationship, menopause, pregnancy, or other major life changes [2].

In this article, we will discuss how female sexual drive changes as you progress through your 20s, 30s, and 40s.

Female Sex Drive In Your 20s

As you age, you are likely to be more fertile than in your 20s. Experts believe that female desire increases just as fertility begins to decline towards the end of your 20s, which may result in you being more selective about when and if you have sex. However, it is unclear why this happens [3].

You may have a low sex drive in your 20s if you use birth control. It doesn't affect everyone, but some women may experience lower testosterone levels on the pill, leading to decreased libido and even vaginal dryness.

Female Sex Drive In Your 30s

Additionally, the stress of career building and increasing life responsibilities can also affect your sexual drive in your 30s. Hormonal changes experienced during the menstrual cycle may also affect your sex drive. The stress hormone sex hormone can be suppressed by stress while the stress hormone cortisol can be elevated.

It is important to communicate openly about your sexual drive with your partner, even if it may be discouraging if you are not in the mood for sex [4].

How Female Sex Drive Changes

In addition, experts suggest that basic stress reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation may help combat sex drive declines caused by stress [5].

Your healthcare provider may also recommend hormonal treatments, vaginal lubricants, or vaginal moisturisers if you are experiencing vaginal dryness or low libido after childbirth.

Female Sex Drive In Your 40s and Beyond

During the menopause transition between 45 and 55, significant hormonal changes occur. This can cause vaginal tissue to become drier, and sex can become uncomfortable.

Nevertheless, ladies, your 40s and 50s can be a time of sexual liberation as well. It is easier for you to talk about what you like now that you are familiar with your body and what turns you on. As you approach menopause, you may feel sexier because you will no longer have to worry about pregnancy [6].

Experts suggest seeing a healthcare provider if vaginal dryness and other menopause side effects are affecting your libido.

When To See A Healthcare Provider About Low Sex Drive In Women?

Talk to a healthcare provider or sexual therapist if your desire for sex does not return and affects your mental health and relationship. A low sex drive that does not return after at least six months, and that causes you extended stress and frustration, is considered hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) [7].

Medications or treatment of specific health conditions may be able to increase your sexual drive, as well as therapy that can help you manage the stressors of life and relationships.

How Female Sex Drive Changes

On A Final Note...

There is no such thing as "being in the mood" for sex all the time. Sex drive fluctuates with age, and there is also no such thing as the right amount of sex drive. The libido will typically return to normal if you experience a dip in sexual desires.

A professional can always be consulted if necessary.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.