It’s all a matter of science really.
If you’ve never given your sex drive much thought bar those times when you start to feel “frisky down below”, then you’ll probably be surprised by the science behind where that urge actually derives from.
According to science, your sex drive varies from person to person. From your diet to your age, to your occupation, it can fluctuate like crazy and so, if you feel your sex drive is higher than your partners or vice versa, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will always be that way and here’s the logic behind it…
Dr Ryan Pasternak, an adolescent medicine specialist in Louisiana and a fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health, told HelloGiggles that your level of “horniness” actually stems from a variety of things and is a “complex mix of biology, neurology, psychology and social interaction.”
The main components in creating this “urge” are the hormones testosterone and dopamine. How these hormones interact with your neurotransmitters and sex hormone binding globulin (which is a protein produced by the liver) is the main factor in determining your level of “sex drive”.
“The more testosterone in your body, the hornier you are”
Basically, the more testosterone in your body, the hornier you are. “The level of testosterone is dependent on your ovaries, your adrenal glands, and the activity of an enzyme found in many cells around your body called ‘aromatase’ which can actually convert estrogens into testosterone. The testosterone which is “free” and not bound to SHBG is what plays a major role in driving female libido” revealed Dr Ryan.
Many factors, however, can affect your libido and cause it to fluctuate. Dr Ryan explains that many antidepressants and birth control pills can actually cause your libido to decrease due to hormone binding factors.
Another thing that can affect sex drive is religious beliefs, family interactions, repressed fears, and past negative experiences related to sexual relationships, the specialist notes.
Dr Ryan said a relationship where you feel loved and safe can often ignite a stronger sex drive.
“Strong supportive relationships where good communication exists and both partners feel safe often leads to more pleasurable intimacy. Supportive relationships, where both partners can be vulnerable together about their shared desires, pleasures, and needs, can foster improved and healthy libido. This establishment of trust between partners, even during periods of sexual exploration, is likely to help persons lead safe and enjoyable sex lives,” he explained.
Therefore if your sex drive has recently decreased and you’re worried about it or feel your partner just isn’t “in the mood” as often as before. The key is to be sex-positive, supportive and respectful and open to discussing it with your partner. More often than not, it could be due to a hormonal change, diet or exercise levels and speaking about it together will help you get over the hump, not feel ashamed and in turn, it can easily make things more intimate and united between you two. Remember a problem shared is a problem halved.
If things persist, do give your GP a visit. Remember this is a common issue and they will be happy to guide you down the right path and get you feeling frisky again in no time! Trust us.
