Women’s Sex Drive

Our pharmacists receive numerous information requests each week from women, asking if there is something that we make that can help improve their sex drive (libido).

We have multiple options including testosterone and a combination product, called “Scream Cream”, that we’ve been compounding for years to help with such conditions.  Underlying medical conditions, certain medications, or emotional issues may cause a decrease in libido and sexual response. However, assuming that all of those potential contributory factors have been ruled out, we have had great success working with physicians and recommending a compounded clitoral cream containing a low-dose of natural (100% bio-identical) testosterone and other ingredients.

Testosterone for Women?  Testosterone was discovered decades ago, but only recently have doctors begun to understand its role in women. Both men and women produce testosterone, however women produce about 5-10% as much testosterone as men.  Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining sexual desire, energy level, sense of well-being, as well as the strength and integrity of skin, muscle, and bone. There is a gradual drop in testosterone production in women beginning at age 30. Women who have had their ovaries removed have lower levels of testosterone.  It is estimated that testosterone production declines by 40-50% after ovary removal. Stress may also play a role in decreased levels.

All women should first ask their doctor to order a baseline test of their ‘free testosterone’ level to determine if replacement is something to consider. Blood tests or saliva tests are both reliable.  Saliva testing is a convenient and non-invasive way to determine if a woman has low testosterone or an underlying hormonal imbalance.

Testosterone can stimulate a woman’s “desire” to have sex.   But there are some women who have desire, but avoid sexual activities because intercourse is too painful.  In many of these situations, vaginal dryness is the culprit.  Many prescribers recommend low-dose vaginal estrogen to bring natural moisture back to the vaginal tissues.  If you are always needing to use lubrication prior to sexual activities, you likely have significant vaginal dryness.

Have an open conversation with your prescriber about your libido.  If they are interested in prescribing testosterone or any compounded medication for you, they can simply call our pharmacy at 530-345-7979 for a consultation.  We also offer saliva testing and can provide those results to you and your provider to better help with determining the appropriate custom therapy for you.