Your sex life absent from the bedroom? Let’s talk about it. Between the demands of motherhood, work, and simply being human, it’s no surprise intimacy takes a backseat. And while it’s easy to dismiss it as just another item on your never-ending to-do list, it can be frustrating when you’re craving that spark. Low sex drive in women is often swept under the rug, creating a double-edged sword: It leaves us feeling isolated and unsure of how to address it. But it isn’t something to quietly endure. The truth is, our libido is complex. It’s influenced by everything from hormones to diet. The good news? You can take small, sustainable steps to nurture your body, mind, and relationship—sans pressure. It’s time to gently rekindle intimacy on your terms.
Feature image by Michelle Nash.
Understanding the Two Types of Sexual Desire: Spontaneous vs. Responsive
If you’ve ever wondered why your sex drive doesn’t kick in like it used to, you’re not alone. For many women, arousal doesn’t just appear out of thin air. It needs the right conditions. In other words, a common misconception is that desire should always be spontaneous—a spur of the moment flame. But in reality, there are two main types of sexual desire: spontaneous and responsive.
Spontaneous Desire: The “In the Mood” Type
Spontaneous desire is what we often see portrayed in movies and media—it’s that natural, out-of-nowhere urge for intimacy. This type of desire tends to be more common in men, but some women experience it too. It’s when sexual thoughts pop into your head (randomly), or you feel aroused without any external trigger. While spontaneous desire can be exciting, it’s not the only way to experience a fulfilling sex life. In fact, if you don’t feel that spontaneous desire, it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you! It simply means you respond to intimacy in a different way.
Responsive Desire: The “Warm-Up” Type
Responsive desire, on the other hand, doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. It builds. For many women, desire kicks in after intimacy begins (rather than before). This means you might not feel “in the mood” initially, but once you engage in physical closeness, desire starts to surface. Recognizing this cue is incredibly empowering. Instead of waiting for a lightning bolt of passion to strike, you can focus on creating moments of connection that allow intimacy to unfold naturally.
Why This Matters for Low Sex Drive
In other words, if you’ve been feeling disconnected from your libido, a low sex drive might not be to blame. Instead, your arousal is responsive rather than spontaneous. Instead of waiting for desire to magically appear, focus on intentional steps that invite connection:
- Prioritize non-sexual touch, like hugs and back rubs (if it isn’t already, make physical affection a daily habit!).
- Set the stage for intimacy with an environment that feels safe and relaxed.
- Communicate with your partner about what helps you feel connected.
Ultimately, understanding your desire type takes the pressure off, allowing you to embrace intimacy in a way that works for you.
Why Does Sexual Arrousal Fluctuate?
Contrary to popular belief, your sexual desire isn’t an on-off switch. It’s more like a dimmer—one that responds to life’s many inputs. With that in mind, these are the most common factors behind low sex drive:
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormones are the backbone of libido. And when they’re out of balance, desire takes a hit. If you’re postpartum, breastfeeding, navigating perimenopause, or dealing with conditions like PCOS, shifts in estrogen, testosterone, and prolactin play a role. For example, low estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort, while imbalanced testosterone can leave you feeling meh about intimacy.
How to Support Your Hormones:
- Eat foods rich in healthy fats (avocados, nuts, and omega-3s) to support hormone production.
- Try seed cycling to naturally balance estrogen and progesterone.
- If postpartum, give yourself grace—hormones take time to recalibrate.
2. Stress and Mental Load
Ever noticed that when your to-do list is overflowing, sex is the last thing on your mind? That’s because stress increases cortisol levels, which typically suppresses libido. If the mental load of managing a household, kids, work, and personal has left you depleted, start by giving yourself grace.
How to Reduce Stress and Create Space for Intimacy:
- Prioritize rest. Sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for hormonal balance and overall well-being.
- Practice mindfulness. Deep breathing, meditation, or even a short walk outside can calm the nervous system.
- Delegate when possible. If you’re doing it all, it’s time to ask for help (without guilt).
3. Relationship Dynamics
Of course, a fulfilling sex life isn’t just about physical attraction. It’s deeply tied to emotional connection as well. If you’re feeling disconnected from your partner, resentment has built up, or communication is lacking, desire may dwindle.
Ways to Reconnect with Your Partner:
- Schedule intentional time together. This doesn’t mean forced “date nights.” It can be as simple as drinking coffee together in the morning.
- Communicate openly. Expressing what you need (without pressure or blame) can help bridge emotional gaps.
- Prioritize physical touch. A simple hug or cuddling can foster intimacy without expectations.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
As a nutrition consultant, I can tell you that your diet influences everything—libido included. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can contribute to fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and even poor circulation (which affects arousal!).
Libido-Boosting Nutrition Tips:
5. Underlying Health Conditions
Last but not least, thyroid disorders, PCOS, insulin resistance, and even certain medications (like antidepressants or birth control) can impact sex drive. If you’ve been struggling for several months, chat with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.
When to Seek Support:
Embracing a New Perspective on Sexual Desire
Your libido isn’t broken—it just needs care, attention, and the right conditions to thrive. Instead of putting pressure on yourself to “fix” it, think of it as an invitation to reconnect with your body and what makes you feel good! Whether that means prioritizing self-care, addressing stress, or nourishing yourself with the right foods, know this: You deserve to feel vibrant, confident, and connected—both with yourself and your partner. And if sex isn’t a priority right now? That’s okay, too. Give yourself permission to meet your body where it’s at, knowing that desire ebbs and flows, just like every other part of life.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.
