Reviewed by Dr. Chad Gilliam PA
Thank you for reading our blog series dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Month. In our previous blogs, we’ve discussed the relationships between mental health and our hormones, weight, and acne.
An often overlooked aspect of mental health is its impact on our sexual lives.
In today’s final post, we’ll take a look at how depression can affect a person’s sex drive and what you can do to address this issue.
Key Takeaway
Depression can affect your sexual health. By seeking medical treatment, addressing emotional barriers, and exploring options for sexual health treatments, you can regain your desire for sex and improve sexual satisfaction.
How Does Depression Affect a Person’s Sex Drive?
Depression can have various effects on a person’s sex drive, both physical and emotional. Some common symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Lower energy levels or fatigue
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
All of these can significantly impact your sex drive.
Are Anti-Depressants a Desire-Killer?
According to one study published, up to 70% of people with depression experience sexual side effects related to their antidepressant medications. Antidepressant medications, while helpful in managing depression symptoms, can also have sexual side effects, including:
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty in achieving orgasm
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Reduced vaginal lubrication in women
These side effects can create a cycle of anxiety and stress around sexual activity, which can make the problem worse.
What You Can Do About It
If you are experiencing changes in your sex drive due to depression, here are some steps you can take:
- See a doctor: A doctor or psychiatrist can review your symptoms and treatment plan, potentially adjusting medications to reduce side effects.
- Communicate: Share your feelings and experiences to help you understand each other better and work through challenges together.
- Exercise: Physical activity can increase energy levels, boost self-esteem, and improve blood flow, indirectly improving sexual function.
- Cuddle: Focusing on building intimacy in other ways, such as through touching, kissing, or cuddling, can foster a closer connection without the pressure of sexual performance.
- Individual therapy: Speaking to a therapist or sex therapist can provide strategies to address the mental and emotional components affecting your sex life.
- Couples therapy: If your relationship is affected, couples therapy might help address the issue as a team.
Regain Your Sexual Health
At Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center, we offer several sexual health treatments to improve sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (BHRT)
Hormones play a significant role in our mental health and sex drive. Bioidentical hormones are structurally identical to the hormones your body produces, which can sometimes result in fewer side effects than traditional hormone replacement therapy. By restoring hormonal balance, individuals may experience an increase in sexual desire and function.
P-Shot and O-Shot Treatments
The P-Shot for men and O-Shot for women treatments are safe, non-surgical procedures that use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to improve sexual function.
The treatment involves drawing a person’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this serum into areas surrounding the sex organs. PRP contains growth factors that help regenerate tissue, improve blood flow, and increase sensitivity. These treatments can address issues such as erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and painful intercourse.
Emsella
Emsella is a non-invasive treatment that uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate pelvic floor muscles. By engaging these muscles—sometimes referred to as the ‘Sex Muscles’—individuals can achieve stronger, more frequent orgasms, better bladder control, and even an improvement in sexual satisfaction.
GAINSWave®
GAINSWave® is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-intensity shockwave therapy to improve blood flow and treat erectile dysfunction. By stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and clearing plaque out of existing ones, individuals can experience improved sexual performance and function.
Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center: Sexual Health Clinic in Madison, AL
Depression can significantly impact a person’s sex drive, causing feelings of guilt and shame. By addressing the root causes of this problem, you can regain your sexual health.
Take the first step towards reclaiming your joy and intimacy. Contact Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center today to schedule a consultation. Our expertly trained medical professionals are committed to finding a solution that works for you so you can enjoy a fulfilling and satisfied life.
Complete the online booking form or call us at (256) 722-0555. Your path to better sexual health and overall well-being starts now!
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on the underlying causes of your decreased sex drive. However, some steps you can take include speaking with a doctor or therapist, communicating openly with your partner, exercising regularly, and potentially seeking treatments such as BHRT or P-Shot/O-Shot injections.
Many factors can contribute to decreased sexual desire, including physical and mental health issues, relationship problems, stress, and medication side effects. If you are experiencing persistent disinterest in sex, speak with a medical professional to address any underlying issues.
Communication and seeking professional help can go a long way in saving your relationship. You may also want to explore medical treatments, such as BHRT or P-Shot/O-Shot injections, to address any hormonal imbalances or physical concerns.
If you are searching for a ‘sexual health clinic near me,’ contact Madison Wellness & Aesthetic Center.
