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If you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the thought of having sex makes you cringe, your PCOS could be to blame. Don’t worry; you’re definitely not alone. Many women with PCOS struggle with the same issue — and there are solutions to help you feel more comfortable and confident in the bedroom.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. Experts don’t know exactly what causes PCOS, and although there’s no cure, there are ways to manage your symptoms.
According to the Mayo Clinic, you could have PCOS if you struggle with at least two of the following symptoms:
- Irregular periods
- Too much androgen
- Polycystic ovaries
To put it simply, PCOS can mess with your hormone levels, which, in turn, can mess with your sex drive in more ways than one.
“Most commonly, I see issues with arousal and desire, but they can occur in other areas like lubrication, orgasm, and sexual satisfaction,” says Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist Jessica Ann Ryniec, M.D.
PCOS doesn’t directly cause low sex drive, but the hormonal imbalances resulting from PCOS can lead to other conditions that might affect your sex drive, which can be bothersome.
PCOS and low sex drive: What’s really going on?
Issues caused by PCOS, like obesity, excess facial and body hair, severe acne, and hair loss, can all contribute to feeling less than thrilled about sex. “These things can lead to dissatisfaction with body image and self-esteem, lowering desire,” explains Ryneic.
Struggling with your mental health can also play a big role in your bedroom motivation. “Those with PCOS are also more likely to have anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and this can impact sex drive as well,” says Ryniec. “Medications used to treat mental health disorders can have decreased sex drive as a potential side effect,” she adds.
Additionally, infertility caused by PCOS can have a pretty significant impact on your mental health.
“Infertility related to PCOS can lead to frustration and feelings of failure and may be another source of decreased sexual function for these patients who are trying to build their family,” says Ryniec.
So, what can you do about it?
Self-care habits like regular exercise, managing stress levels, and getting support from healthcare professionals can all help you deal with low sex drive. Plus, these habits will benefit other areas of your life as well.
“Lifestyle changes can be game-changers, especially those focusing on a well-balanced diet, getting good sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, and some form of stress management,” says Ryniec.
If you can afford it, therapy can be beneficial if you’re struggling with low mood or have trouble finding motivation for activities you’d typically enjoy. “This may include counseling with your partner,” Ryniec adds.
If talking about your sex life makes you feel awkward, you’re not alone. Ryneic says it’s common for women with PCOS to feel embarrassed or ashamed to bring this kind of concern to their healthcare providers.
Remember, your provider’s job is to help you. And they can only do that if you tell them what’s really going on.
“If it is something that is causing you distress or issues in your relationship, we are here to help in a safe, private, and confidential environment, and we can work together to improve your concerns to restore sexual satisfaction and overall well-being,” says Ryniec.
Can medication help?
Healthcare providers typically treat the various symptoms of PCOS with medications, including specific hormone therapies. Even though there are no medication specifically approved by the FDA for low sex drive caused by PCOS, your provider has options for you. Work closely with them to find what would be the best low libido drug for you, and don’t forget about self-care.
“Strategies for improving lifestyle and mental health are definitely important in conjunction with medication management,” says Ryniec.
It’s no secret that having PCOS can strain intimacy, so communication with your partner is also super important. Although your sex drive is taking a hit, there are plenty of ways to connect that don’t involve sex, like flirting, cuddling, or simply spending quality time together.
If you think PCOS may be affecting your sex drive, don’t be afraid to reach out for support and explore different strategies for managing it. Even while dealing with the challenges that come with PCOS, you deserve to have a fun and fulfilling sex life!
Blair Sharp is a freelance writer who lives in Minnesota with her husband and son. Her words have been published in various publications, including Parents, SheKnows, The Bump, and Insider. Find her writing daily on LinkedIn and check out her weekly newsletter, Hey Freelancer! Head to her website www.blairsharp.com for more.