“Women’s libido is multifaceted, influenced by hormonal shifts, lifestyle factors, and emotional well-being. Addressing it requires a holistic approach—balancing hormones, managing stress, and fostering self-confidence. When women feel empowered in their bodies and minds, true transformation happens.”
— Dr. Victoria Andarcia, Healthful Roots MD
Women’s health is a topic often overlooked, especially when it comes to discussions about libido and the intricate factors that influence it. Hormonal changes, stress, and even lifestyle habits can all play a significant role, yet these issues are rarely addressed openly or with the depth they deserve. In today’s conversation, Dr. Victoria Andarcia, a board-certified physician and founder of Healthful Roots MD, shares her expertise on the subject. Specializing in hormonal health, fertility, and menopause, Dr. Andarcia has dedicated her career to empowering women with the knowledge and tools to take control of their well-being.
In this enlightening interview, Dr. Andarcia dives into the complexities of women’s libido, from the impact of hormonal imbalances to the importance of self-care and emotional health. Her practical insights and innovative solutions, such as the O-Shot and personalized lifestyle adjustments, highlight the importance of a holistic approach. Whether you’re navigating hormonal changes, dealing with stress, or seeking to reconnect with yourself and your partner, this conversation provides actionable advice and inspiration for women at any stage of life.
Thank you so much for joining us, Dr. Victoria! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?
Thank you for having me, Stacey! My journey into women’s health stems from a deep curiosity and passion for understanding the nuances of the female body. I’m a board-certified physician specializing in hormonal health, fertility, and menopause. Over the years, I’ve focused on empowering women by addressing challenges like libido, hormonal imbalances, and overall wellness. What drives me is the ability to provide tangible solutions that genuinely improve lives. Through my telemedicine practice, Healthful Roots, I’ve had the privilege of working with women across the nation, offering them personalized care plans that address their unique needs and concerns.
Women’s libido seems to be a complex issue. What are some common factors that affect libido?
Absolutely, libido is a multifaceted issue. It’s influenced by a blend of physical and emotional factors. For instance, hormonal imbalances like low estrogen or testosterone levels are major culprits, as they directly impact desire and physical comfort. Stress, relationship dynamics, and even psychological factors like body image can significantly suppress libido. Additionally, medications like SSRIs (commonly prescribed for anxiety and depression) can reduce sexual desire. Physiological issues, such as vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, or decreased blood flow, also play a pivotal role. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for creating an effective treatment plan.
How do hormonal changes during life transitions affect libido?
Hormonal fluctuations, especially during life transitions like perimenopause and menopause, can profoundly affect libido. For example, decreased estrogen levels lead to vaginal dryness and tissue thinning, which can make intimacy uncomfortable or even painful. Testosterone, a hormone often associated with men, is also vital for women—it fuels desire. As levels decrease with age, many women find their sexual interest waning. Fortunately, treatments like vaginal estrogen and testosterone therapy can restore balance, enhance comfort, and reignite desire, helping women feel more connected to themselves and their partners.
What benefits does vaginal estrogen provide for women?
Vaginal estrogen is a remarkable option for women experiencing symptoms like dryness, atrophy, or discomfort during intimacy. This localized treatment rejuvenates vaginal tissue, restores natural lubrication, and alleviates pain. Beyond improving sexual function, it offers additional benefits, such as reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and alleviating issues like urinary frequency or incontinence. One of its standout features is its safety—since it’s minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s suitable even for women who might not be candidates for systemic hormone replacement therapy. It’s a game-changer for many women navigating the challenges of hormonal changes.
What can you tell us about therapies like the O-Shot?
The O-Shot is an innovative and fascinating option for improving sexual function. It involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into areas like the clitoris and vaginal tissue to stimulate blood flow and regenerate cells. Women who undergo this treatment often report heightened sensitivity, improved lubrication, and more satisfying orgasms. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, the O-Shot offers promising results for those looking to address issues related to blood flow and tissue health. I think it’s an exciting development in women’s sexual health.
Stress is a major libido killer. How do you address this with your patients?
Stress is an undeniable barrier to healthy libido. When cortisol levels spike, they disrupt the delicate balance of sex hormones, effectively suppressing desire. With my patients, I emphasize stress management as a cornerstone of care. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, and regular physical activity can make a world of difference. Additionally, supplements like ashwagandha have shown great promise in lowering cortisol levels, thereby promoting a more balanced hormonal environment. It’s about giving women the tools to manage stress effectively while understanding its impact on their overall health.
Why is lifestyle such an important part of improving sexual health?
Lifestyle factors are foundational. Hormonal treatments and supplements can help, but lasting change often starts with healthy habits. A balanced diet fuels hormone production, regular exercise boosts circulation and energy, and good sleep hygiene ensures the body has time to repair itself. All these elements work together to create a supportive environment for libido and overall well-being. I always tell my patients that small, consistent changes in lifestyle can lead to profound improvements in their health and intimacy.
What role does nutrition play in sexual health?
Nutrition is essential. Hormonal health relies on key nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D. Sadly, many people don’t get enough of these from their diets. While supplements can fill gaps, there’s no substitute for nutrient-rich whole foods. For women struggling with libido, I often recommend a personalized approach to nutrition, sometimes involving a nutritionist, to ensure they’re supporting their bodies in the best way possible.
Are there medications that can impact libido?
Absolutely. Medications like SSRIs, beta-blockers, and hormonal birth control can all suppress libido. These side effects aren’t always discussed when these medications are prescribed, which can leave women confused and frustrated. When patients bring this up, I conduct a thorough review of their medications to identify potential culprits and explore alternatives. In some cases, supplements or lifestyle changes can help counteract these effects.
What’s your take on over-the-counter libido supplements?
Over-the-counter libido supplements should be approached with caution. Many lack proper regulation and could contain harmful fillers or ineffective dosages. While some may offer benefits, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially those claiming to alter hormones. Understanding your body’s specific needs through testing is always a safer and more effective path.
Are there natural remedies or supplements you recommend?
I often recommend supplements like maca root and ashwagandha, which have been shown to enhance libido and reduce stress. Shilajit is another option for boosting testosterone levels. However, these remedies should complement a healthy lifestyle and be used under the guidance of a professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How do relationship dynamics affect libido?
Relationships play a significant role in sexual health. Emotional disconnection, unresolved conflicts, or a lack of intimacy can dampen desire. Addressing these dynamics through open communication, quality time together, or even therapy can help rebuild emotional and physical intimacy. A strong emotional connection often leads to a healthier sexual relationship.
What advice would you give to women struggling with body image and its impact on libido?
Body image is deeply tied to sexual confidence. For women who struggle with this, I encourage focusing on how their bodies feel rather than how they look. Activities that boost self-esteem, like regular exercise or self-care routines, can help. It’s also important to challenge societal beauty standards and embrace body positivity. Feeling good in your own skin is the first step toward reclaiming your confidence.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Readers can connect with me on Instagram at @healthfulrootsmd, listen to my podcast, Healthful Roots MD, or visit my website at www.healthfulrootsmd.com. I also offer free 15-minute consultations to answer questions or discuss potential care plans.
Thank you so much, Dr. Victoria, for sharing your expertise with us today. Your insights have been enlightening and incredibly empowering. We appreciate the valuable guidance you’ve provided to our readers.
Dr. Victoria Andarcia is a board-certified physician and the founder of Healthful Roots MD, a telemedicine practice dedicated to women’s health. With expertise in hormonal health, fertility, and menopause, she specializes in helping women navigate complex issues like libido, hormonal imbalances, and overall wellness. Through her compassionate, patient-centered approach, Dr. Andarcia empowers women to take control of their health and improve their quality of life with personalized care and innovative treatments.