If you've never given your sex drive much thought bar those times when you start to feel "frisky down below", then you will probably be surprised by the science behind where your sex drive actually derives from.
Sex drive varies from person to person and from your diet, to your age, to your occupation, it can fluctuate like crazy. 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 of course, 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 a main factor in determining your level of "sex drive".
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 can actually cause your libido to decrease due to hormone binding factors.
Another thing that can affect our sex drives is our religious beliefs, family interactions, repressed fears, and past negative experiences related to sexual relationships.
Dr Ryan said a relationship where you feel loved and safe can often ignite a stronger sex drive. He said: "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."
Therefore if your sex drive has recently decreased and you are worried about it or feel your partner just isn't "in the mood" as often as before. Be sex positive, supportive and respectful of each other and discuss. More often than not, it could be due to a hormonal change, diet or a change in exercise levels and speaking about it together will help ye get over the hump, not feel ashamed and become more intimate and united. Remember a problem shared is a problem halved.
If things persist, do give your GP a visit, as 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!