48 Simple Ways to Improve Your Sex Life
Take estrogen
Estrogen is one of the female sex hormones that are important for sexual and reproductive development. Lacking in this hormone may lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, mood swings, pain during sex, irregular periods and hot flashes. “Estrogen, either used directly on the vaginal skin or systemically by pill or patch, is the most effective treatment for vaginal dryness of menopause (officially known as genitourinary syndrome),” says Diana Bitner, MD, OB/GYN and certified menopause practitioner. “Topical or systemic testosterone, or a newly approved medication Interosa (intravaginal DHEA) are also effective.”
Stress less
Chronic stress is a serious libido killer, says McGough. And the American Psychological Association has found that stress levels are increasing, with 44 percent of Americans reporting that their levels of stress have increased over the last five years. “While relieving stress isn’t always easy, especially when you have young children and busy schedules, but it’s something to be aware of to help improve things sexually.”
Exercise
Exercise is important to sexual health: it increases stamina, which is important when it comes to sex, says Dr. Millheiser. One study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, found that exercise also improves body image and mood, which therefore improves sexual functioning. “The more confident a woman feels about her body and the better her mood is, and the more likely she will be able to derive sexual satisfaction during the act,” Dr. Millheiser adds.
Maintain a healthy diet
As the saying goes, you are what you eat—meaning, if you’re eating fattening, fried foods, you will feel lethargic and will most likely gain weight (which probably won’t put you in the best mood for sex). “There is some evidence that diet, especially the Mediterranean diet, can positively impact sexual function in women with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Millheiser. “When it comes to diet, loss of weight improves body image which, in turn, improves sexual function.”
Season with saffron
“One really exciting possibility for dealing with reduced libido from antidepressants comes from an unexpected source, the spice Saffron,” says McGough. “Saffron has historically been considered an aphrodisiac, but only recently has it gotten attention for helping with depression and helping women recover from low libido caused by antidepressants.” In fact, one study published in the Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental Journal found that that saffron significantly helped women who had lost their libido from taking an antidepressant.
Fill up on aphrodisiac foods
Who knew you could eat your way to a better sex life—quite literally? One of the most famous aphrodisiac foods is oysters, which are high in zinc and long known to be sexually stimulating. In fact, one study found that the amino acids found in oysters boost production of the sex hormones, testosterone and progesterone. Other sex-boosting foods to add to your grocery list include chili peppers, avocado, chocolate, bananas and watermelon.
Eating apples
While this autumnal fruit might not be considered an aphrodisiac, it’s loaded with good-for-you nutrients like antioxidants, flavonoids, and dietary fiber. It also may help boost your sex drive. One study published in the journal Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, linked apple consumption to better sexual satisfaction in younger women.
Quit smoking
Dr. Dweck points out that smoking can be a huge buzzkill for your sex drive. “It not only causes bad breath, stained teeth, worsened hot flashes for those in perimenopause or menopause, but mostly it can affect the vagina!” she explains. “Smoking causes vasoconstriction (constricted blood vessels) which can diminish the natural lubrication the vagina produces during arousal.”
Cut back on alcohol
As most people know, alcohol is a depressant, so it makes people tired and sluggish. “It’s hard to be motivated to do anything when you’ve had a few too many drinks, let alone have sex,” says Dr. Bitner. She recommends reserving alcohol for special occasions, rather than a nightly habits, and do something better for your health: have sex.
Seek out career advancements
You might be thinking, “What on earth does my job have to do with my sex life?” Well, to your surprise, it very well may be causing you lack of enjoyment in the bedroom. “Poor self-image or lack of personal satisfaction from your job, especially if it’s causing you stress or you’re in a bad work situation, can affect more than budge— it can affect sex drive, too,” explains Dr. Bitner. “Take control of your life and you will feel like having more sex.”
Treat mood disorders
“Address the underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, which can interfere with home life, work life and self-image,” says Dr. Bitner. “Some medications to treat mood disorders also reduce sexual desire, response and ability to orgasm, but even short term treatment together with counseling can be effective for both.”
Seek help for sleep apnea
One of the main symptoms of sleep apnea is snoring, which is unappealing and mood-killing all on its own. If wanting to clobber the person sleeping next to you who’s snoring isn’t enough to tame your sexual appetite, worrying that he or she might be suffering from a condition that could be serious, like sleep apnea, very well might. Several studies have backed the effects of sleep apnea on sexual health, so encourage your partner to seek treatment, stat.
