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increase your sex drive

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Physical intimacy is just as important as emotional intimacy in a relationship. However, if the desire isn’t there, all parties can wind up frustrated. According to research reported on Medical News Today, women face a 43 percent likelihood of sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction, in the medical world, is a blanket term for any condition that prevents you from wanting to have sex or from enjoying sex. So, for some women, the desire to have sex might be there, but the ability to climax could be lacking. For others, the drive to get it on in the first place is missing.

For a high number of women, sex drive goes down in a long-term relationship. A study published in the National Library of Medicine found this to be consistently true. But, what are the implications of that study? It’s not as if you’ll just find a new partner every time your sex life dwindles – especially if the relationship is otherwise loving and functional. If you find yourself in this predicament, here’s what you should know if you want to increase your sex drive.

 

Your Lifestyle + Your Sex Drive

African couple toasting with wine glasses. Young in love man and woman clinking champagne glass, celebrating relationship anniversary. Two people dating and spending romantic valentines day together

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Speaking to your partner about your low sex drive and exploring ways to bring back the spark together is a great first step. However, there are things you can do on your end to improve your chances of bringing your libido up. Some of these include:

  • Drinking less. It’s no secret that a drink or two can get you in the mood, and maybe make you feel brave enough to finally try that new thing in bed. However, Health Service Executive reports that excess drinking over time lowers sex drive.
  • Avoiding trans fats. Staying away from chili cheese fries is a good idea on date night for a number of reasons. Biologically speaking, the trans fats in these foods have been shown to lower sex drive.
  • Cutting back on salt and sugar. It turns out lean, healthy meals are the key to a better sex life. The insulin changes that result from sugar intake are associated with a lower libido. The high blood pressure associated with sodium intake is also linked to a low sex drive.
  • Smoking less (or not at all). If you smoke cigarettes or partake in any nicotine-containing substance, know that research published in the National Library of Medicine found that nicotine-dependent women typically have a lower sex drive.
  • Sleeping more. While this one is easier said than done, if you can find a way to clock more Z’s, know that The Sleep Foundation reported a correlation between sleep deprivation and reduced sex drive in women.
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