Dr.: Pills Not Always the Cure for Women Suffering Low Libido

Sept. 21, 2007 (KABC-TV) (KABC) -- There are many remedies for male sexual dysfunction at the pharmacy, but hardly any for women. Some women want to try hormones like testosterone -- but do they really need it, or is there another reason for their loss of libido?

Heather has always had lots of energy. But that wasn't the case after her hysterectomy a few years ago. Everything was affected -- her work and her sex life.

"It was -- what's wrong with me?" said Heather.

Heather went to go see her doctor. Dr. June Lavalleur is an expert in women's health. She says half her patients report little or no sex drive.

Studies have shown up to 76 percent of women report some type of sexual dysfunction. Low testosterone is sometimes the culprit, but not always. Sometimes it's the rigors of daily life.

"Whether or not grandma is in the next bedroom, or the kids are down the hall, or you've worked all week long and you're exhausted," said Dr. Lavalleur.

Still, many women want a prescription for testosterone. Side-effects can include acne, facial hair, and lower voice. Too much testosterone may also cause side-effects like flushing, sweating, and itching.

Before you ask your doctor for a prescription, experts say consider your schedule or your relationship with your partner.

"Women want something to make them feel better yesterday," said Dr. Lavalleur. "They want to take a pill, they want to be better. And it's much more difficult to address the other issues."

Research from Harvard Medical School reveals women who have had their ovaries removed can benefit sexually.

Heather says it was just what she needed.

"If you're feeling those feelings, it might be an option to try, and I wouldn't look back," said Heather. "I think it's fabulous."

But before asking for a hormone boost for the bedroom, some doctors recommend women look at what's going on with the rest of their lives.

To date, while there's no FDA-approved product for low libido in women, the University of Minnesota is working on a test patch. Doctors warn women who are taking testosterone supplements to be careful of the dosage. Too much can cause irreversible side-effects.

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