Low Sex Drive and How to Fix It

Part Three: When You Don't Desire Sex.

So far we took a quick look at the types of sexual issues people want to work through in counseling as well as tips to set your relationship up for a win/win sexually.Today I want to look at what some might call low libido, lack of sexual desire or low sex drive. When you're not wanting to have sex, here are some of the usual suspects...

Reasons why we SAY we say "no" to sex.

1. We are tired.

2. We are stressed.

3. We have a headache.

4. We ate too much Chinese food. :)

It's absolutely ok to say "no" from time to time for whatever reason you so choose. The problem comes when you turn down perfectly good sex almost as a default, without considering your motivation for doing so or the impact of the choice on your relationship.

Reasons why we REALLY say "no" to sex.

1. Emotional hang-ups.

   • Depression.

     • One of the DSM-V diagnostic criteria for depression is loss of interest or pleasure. Maybe your disinterest in sex has more to do with your mental health than anything else? Depression is a road that doesn't have to be walked alone, and dealing with this issue may truly open you up to a wealth of possibilities that will positively effect both you and your partner.

     • Unprocessed negative experiences in your past might still be present.

       • This may be a sexual trauma or just feelings of guilt for one reason or another. Either way, it is something that can be addressed in counseling and there's just no reason why your past needs to cast a dark shadow on what could be a dynamic and healthy physical relationship with your spouse.

2. Relational hang-ups.

   • Power struggle. "That's all he wants me for." "He isn't doing what I need so why should I do what he needs?" If you're in at standoff in terms of desiring to meet each other's needs, one things for sure: everybody loses. Change the tone of your relationship and focus on meeting the other's needs. Something magical happens. Everyone's needs are met with enthusiasm...without anyone having to demand.

   • Not really "feeling it" towards your spouse. Maybe your love has gone a little cold and you don't thrill at your spouse's touch like you used to. This solution can typically be found in one of two places: your prayer life or your self-talk. Both of those generally require some specific coaching and I'd love to talk with you more about this in person.

3. Physical hang-ups.

   • Technique issues.

     • If you didn't know by now...sex is not like you see on TV. Sorry. Whether it's a communication issue or a mechanics/technique issue, there are a lot of really great resources available to help you get past what is holding you back.

     • You're not happy with your body.

       • Body image issues can definitely do a number on libido. Ultimately, it all boils down to two choices: come up with a plan to get happy about what you're working with or come up with a plan to do something about it. I can definitely help you out with one of these and have some great resources to help you figure out the other. For starters, these friends of mine.

       • Hormonal issues.

         • Pregnancy, postpartum, pre-menopausal, post-menopausal...all these reasons and more can cause a big shift in libido. Talk to your doctor. There may be an easier solution than you think.

         • Medication side-effect.

           • Everyone is different and it's hard to trace back which medication might be effecting your sex drive. Your doctor will be very helpful towards this end. For most issues, there are so many options of medications available, it may be as simple as just taking a different birth control pill. For real, ask your doctor. Could be a super easy fix.

           • Pain/Discomfort during sex.

             • There are a few physical conditions (both male and female) which can result in painful intercourse. Each situation is so vastly different, I'm not able to expound upon this point here. But, many can find relief through a team approach between a physician and a therapist.

4. Spiritual hang ups.

   • Trouble associating sexuality as a pure gift from heaven.

     • For the purposes of this blog, I won't unpack this much. But suffice it to say: God is pro-sex and if that weirds you out, let's talk.

5. Kid sleep habits.

   • Whether you have to fall asleep with your kids to get them to stay in bed, or they start off or end up sleeping in your bed, this can really mess with your sex life. The resolution of this issue isn't a quick fix, but we can figure out the steps it would take to alleviate this problem. Whether it's an attachment issue or just a bad habit, we can find solutions that result in happier and healthier bedtime dynamics.

   • Also, and this is not a joke but is a little funny to me...you'd be surprised at how many clients I've had that cite "dogs in the bed" as a mood killer! Seriously, Rufus doesn't need to know everything that goes on in the house. ;)

6. Boundary Issues.

   • Pornography/masturbation.

     • You and your partner both deserve to be clear on what the boundaries are in your sex life. "Solutions" you've come up with over the years may be causing more problems than you're aware of. I have some pretty clear and easy boundaries that I suggest for most couples, and they leave room for a lot of awesomeness to be had, while elevating the union to its proper, amazingly sacred place.

     • Not being totally closed off to other suitors.

       • What you may see as an innocent flirtation or even being open to the approach of other people is a vote for "the grass is greener" mentality. If you didn't know already, the grass is greener where you water it. When you water it, the more you'll love the luscious lawn you have.

The big picture: sex was designed to be awesome. If it's anything less for you and your partner, don't take it lying down. Let's talk.

Spring Life Counseling LLC