Low libido is a very common concern affecting many post menopausal women & unfortunately interfering significantly with their quality of life! 

Below are some ways in which your low libido can be addressed from a naturopathic perspective: 

1. Improving vaginal lubrication – Estrogen is the main contributor to vaginal lubrication by supplying a healthy blood flow to all of the vaginal tissues. After menopause, estrogen levels significantly decline causing lack of lubrication, thinning of the tissues, and shortening of the vaginal canal. Sufficient blood flow depends on the availability of nitric oxide, so adding foods into your diet which improve the bio availability and production of nitric oxide can be helpful in restoring vaginal lubrication.

Some of these foods include:

• Nuts- peanuts, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts
• Berries
• chocolate 
• Sunflower seeds
• Flax seeds 
• Soy [non GMO, organic]

Some moisturizing lubricants include:

• Replens: long lasting vaginal moisturizer
• Repagyn
• Hyalogyn
• Gynatrof 

2. Use it or lose it 

Regular vaginal penetration is recommended [1x a week] since it is easier to maintain tissue function in women without symptoms, than to address painful intercourse due to the declining estrogen, thinning of tissues and reduced lubrication. Vaginal penetration can also be through the use of sex toys as well.

3. Vaginal Renewal program 

A stepwise approach to help women recondition the health and flexibility of the skin of the vulva and vagina. 

3. Move it!

Walking 30-60 minutes a day [up to the level of a gentle sweat], specifically just before sexual intercourse was shown to improve vaginal lubrication as well as symptomatic arousal 

4. Getting to the root of it 

It is also very important to address any underlying factors that may be going on when assessing low libido including: mood disorders, metabolic disorders or other hormonal imbalances. 

Do you have any questions about your menopausal symptoms? Don’t hesitate to ask! 

In health, 

Dr. Laura, ND

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