Libido—or sexual desire—can be affected by several factors. Sexual motivation, emotional intimacy and sexual skills of the couple, psychological and biological factors and sex hormones—including estrogens and androgens—all play roles. Decreased levels of androgens in late reproductive years contribute to the decline in sexual interest/desire in older women. Several investigators agree that androgens influence libido and behavior but not activity or response—such as lubrication and orgasm.
aDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center, Dearborn, MI
bDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University
cKamran S. Moghissi Professor, Associate Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
dDept Psychiatry, Wayne State University, Associate Director, Residency Training, Detroit, MI
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center, Dearborn, MI 48123
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Kamran S. Moghissi Professor, Associate Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201
Dept Psychiatry, Wayne State University, Associate Director, Residency Training, Detroit, MI 48207
Dr Diamond has disclosed the following contractual support relationships: Serono, TAP, GSK, Wyeth, Merck, and Pfizer; and the following consulting relationships: Serono, Genzyme, and Kytogenics.
2 Dr. Balon has disclosed the following relationships: lecturer, GSK; Consultant, Shire Pharmaceuticals.
ABSTRACT