Sexual interest decreases as we age, and studies show that women’s sexual desire is more likely to decrease than men’s. For this reason, researchers inquired about the possible factors that could contribute to this problem.
The study was conducted by researchers at the Centre for Sexual Health Research at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom. The researchers examined data from the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles, which is the largest scientific investigation into sexual activity in the UK. Aside from exploring factors that can contribute to lack of sexual desire, the researchers also looked at psychological factors that can be associated.
Factors linked to sexual disinterest uncovered
The researchers looked at data from 4,839 men and 6,669 women who lived with a romantic partner for at least a year.
Over 34 percent of the women reported lack of sexual interest compared to only 15 percent of men. Furthermore, over 60 percent of women and 50 percent of men reported distress over dwindling sexual interest.
Factors associated with diminishing sexual interest included sexually transmitted diseases, experiencing non-consensual sex, poor mental and physical health, and not feeling emotionally connected to one’s partner.
The researchers noted that many of these factors were solely experienced or felt by women compared to men. Furthermore, women who had more than three sexual partners in the last year were less likely to experience low sexual desire compared to women who only had one sexual partner. Women also reported that having children under the age of five and not having the same sexual likes and dislikes as their partners was another factor for lower sexual interest.
Discussing sexual interest can boost libido
Among those who reported a loss of sexual desire, they were more likely to be coupled who discussed their sexual desire together.
Lead researcher Professor Cynthia Graham explained, “Our findings show us the importance of the relational context in understanding low sexual interest in both men and women. For women, in particular, the quality and length of [the] relationship and communication with their partners are important in their experience of sexual interest.”
Co-author of the study Dr. Kirstin Mitchell added, “The findings on the strong association between open sexual communication and a reduced likelihood of sexual interest problems emphasize the importance of providing a broad sexual and relationships education rather than limiting attention only to adverse consequences of sex and how to prevent them.”
Therefore, based on the study’s findings, it’s important that couples keep the lines of communication open regarding discussing sexual desire as a means of improving it. You may realize that you and your partner are on the same page even if you believe you may not be. Instead of bottling up the issues that are hindering your sexual desire, it’s far more productive and beneficial to discuss them. Even if you don’t feel comfortable discussing them with your partner at first, it may be helpful to speak to someone else, like a therapist.
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