In light of today’s medical research findings on women’s libido*, the Jean Hailes Foundation has asked two experts for some practical advice to enhance Australian women’s sex lives.

(*The Australian research is contained in the Sue Ismiel Study of the Role of Changes in Androgens with Age by the Jean Hailes Foundation and Monash University. It is published today in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association. The research confirms there is no simple test or solution for sexual dysfunction - a common request by many women.)

While there may be no quick fix, there are many ways women can understand and improve their sex lives, according to endocrinologist Dr Helena Teede. Dr Teede is the Director of Research at the Jean Hailes Foundation.

“Our lives are ridiculously busy and we have so many responsibilities – it’s easy to see sex as yet another chore. While there may be medical reasons for some women’s low libido, there is growing evidence that social and emotional factors play a huge part,” says Dr Teede.

Jean Hailes Foundation psychologist, Dr Amanda Deeks, suggests women ask: What influences your libido? Relationships, physical and psychological factors are just a few which impact on individual sex drive. Why do you have sex? Are you motivated by lust, intimacy, fun, pleasure or perhaps you feel obligated? Is your libido different to your partner’s? Partners often have different levels of desire which can cause tension in a relationship.

Counselling can often help in this area.

Are you comparing yourself to your friends? Don’t! 

Are you depressed or anxious? These conditions often affect libido. 

Have you thought of seeking help? If you are worried, do something about it. Make an appointment with a doctor or psychologist.

For a comprehensive “10 tips for understanding and improving your libido” by Dr Deeks see Libido (http://www.managingmenopause.org.au/content/view/23/95/).

Background: The Sue Ismiel study of the role of changes in androgens with age was funded by private Australian businesswoman,  Sue Ismiel who donated $600,000 to the Jean Hailes Foundation back in 2002 to discover the links between hormones and women’s health and wellbeing.

Content updated July 05, 2005