In women, the natural process of menopause, with its subsequent decline of hormones, is sometimes an easy process—but, frequently, not. Often, in fact, the resulting side-effects are less than desirable. Loss of libido, or sexual desire, is one side-effect that makes life more difficult to deal with. This can lead to misunderstanding and confusion for both partners. Of course, menopause is not the only reason for a decreased libido, however. Declining sexual desire can be due to emotional issues, post-childbirth trauma, breastfeeding, menopause, drug reactions, stress, negative body image, relationship conflicts, hormonal imbalances and physical responses such as pain or inability to reach orgasm.

Here is the good news, though. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help boost a slumped libido. In Chinese medical theory, decreased sexual desire is described as an imbalance in the flow of energy or Qi (pronounced “chee”) or deficiency in the amount of vitality and energy in each organ system. An organ system includes the traditional organ, its energetic nature and its associated meridian (channel the Qi flows through).
Once the specific pattern of imbalance is identified, acupuncture points and, sometimes, herbal formulas are chosen, and the treatment is applied. By stimulating these acupuncture points, various changes in the body’s biochemistry will occur. These changes are directed to balance the body-mind connection and strengthen the patient’s sexual health. Acupuncture can also be used to enhance or alter several other sexual health conditions in both men and women.

Acupuncture and herbal medicine could help the following conditions: 

• Vaginal Dryness 
• Infertility
• Menopause
• Premature Ejaculation
• Low Sperm Count
• Diminished Sperm Motility or Quality
• Impotence 

In addition, herbal formulas can be written to focus on the patient’s specific needs. Herbs can enhance sexual health and strengthen libido by increasing vaginal lubrication, calming the mind, decreasing stress and regulating hormones. Herbal formulations combine and work together to enhance female sexual pleasure and increase orgasmic strength. For example, Ginseng can help balance the endocrine system which, in turn, will regulate mood and stimulate desire. Horny Goat Weed can boost natural levels of testosterone which could increase sexual drive. 

Another beneficial quality of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is the philosophy of the integrated whole. Chinese medical theory takes an integrated perspective into account through both diagnosis and treatment of patients. By incorporating this theory, we can treat the entire person instead of just the symptom or illness. By addressing the root cause of the problem and integrating the entire person, Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine help to alleviate several issues at their source. Another attractive characteristic of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is the low risk of adverse side-effects. So, there is nothing to lose by trying to help increase your sexual health by using these treatment modalities.