By now you've likely heard about Flibanserin, the female version of Viagra that is supposed to increase sexual desire in women. It's about time for there to be a female equivalent to the popular drug for men that helps their libido and treats erectile dysfunction. Filbanserin aims to help hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women, which is a condition categorized by the lack of sexual desire or sexual fantasies and distress caused by sex. Though it's not yet on shelves or FDA approved, the decision to change those things will take place at the end of the summer, and since the FDA advisory committee voted overwhelmingly to recommend that the FDA approve the drug, it's looking food for Flibanserin.
So what have women done historically to treat issues they have with libido without a drug? As it turns out, science has found a lot of solutions to help you with your lady sex drive to deal with the lack of a drug. These suggestions, some of which may surprise you, include:
1. Antidepressants
It seems counter-intuitive because antidepressants are known to decrease your libido, but the pill Bupropion works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are two hormones integral to arousal.
2. Yoga
Yoga has been shown to decrease pain and increase libido. A win-win!
3. Bibliotherapy
Studies show that bibliotherapy, a fancy word for reading, can help cure issues with low libido. Especially if you read erotica.
4. Get a Raise at Work
Interestingly (or maybe a better word would be "sadly"), the International Journal of Manpower found that people who make more money have more sex, and found that income is related to sexual desire.
5. Eat Lots of Liver
It doesn't sound like the sexiest thing, but certain foods increase libido pretty dramatically, like celery, raw oysters, peaches, eggs, and garlic.
Check out this list for more tips on other ways to increase your libido while waiting for the final verdict on Filbanserin.
Images: Giphy (5)
