Libido

Libido is the sexual instinct or erotic desire and pleasure. Your libido is sometimes referred to as your 'sex drive'. Libido varies from woman to woman and from man to man and can be influenced by a range of different factors.

Loss or reduction of libido can be experienced at any age and may result in:

• reduced desire to have sex
• sexual experiences that are no longer satisfying or pleasurable.

Many women and men will experience low libido at some time in their lives. This may be over a long period of time or short-term such as after the birth of a baby, during a stressful life period or when a relationship is rocky.

Low libido can become an issue in relationships when one partner wants sex more often than the other. This is called ‘desire discrepancy’ and can cause conflict and unhappiness.

Organisations that specialise in this area of reproductive and/or sexual health

• Visit Better Health Channel
• Visit Jean Hailes

Where to get more information, support or advice

• Contact your local doctor (GP)
• Contact Sexual Health Victoria's clinics