Libido supplements

Disclaimer: This self-check questionnaire is for educational purposes only and does not provide a diagnosis. Libido changes can have medical, psychological, or lifestyle-related causes. If you are unsure about your symptoms or feel distressed, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Interest in libido supplements—including herbal products, vitamins, minerals, and over-the-counter enhancers—has grown in recent years. Media coverage in our Actualité section and academic discussions across the Département de biologie and Département des sciences de la mer et de l’aquaculture highlight ongoing research into plant extracts, micronutrients, and marine-derived compounds that may influence sexual health. Use the checklist below to reflect on your situation before considering any supplement.

Questionnaire

Over the past 3–6 months, have you experienced any of the following?

• Decreased sexual desire compared to your usual baseline?
• Difficulty becoming aroused despite adequate stimulation?
• Reduced sexual satisfaction or pleasure?
• Fatigue, low energy, or chronic stress affecting intimacy?
• Noticeable hormonal changes (e.g., menopause, postpartum period, andropause)?
• Recent changes in medication (antidepressants, antihypertensives, hormonal therapy)?
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, sleep apnea, irregular schedule)?
• Relationship difficulties or unresolved emotional conflicts?
• Symptoms of anxiety or depression?
• Chronic conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disorders)?
• Use of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs?
• Nutritional concerns (restrictive diet, possible zinc or iron deficiency)?
• Pelvic pain, erectile difficulties, or vaginal dryness?
• History of hormonal imbalance or endocrine disorders?
• High workload or academic stress (e.g., exam periods listed in Planning des examens)?
• Have you already tried any libido-enhancing supplements without clear benefit?

How to interpret answers

This checklist is not a scoring tool but can help you estimate your level of concern.

Low reason to seek help

• 1–3 mild factors present.
• Symptoms are short-term (less than 3 months).
• Clear situational trigger (temporary stress, travel, exams).

Consider lifestyle adjustments and monitoring before using supplements.

Medium reason to seek help

• Several factors present (4–7).
• Symptoms lasting more than 3 months.
• Impact on relationship satisfaction or self-esteem.

Discuss with a general practitioner or gynecologist/urologist before starting any product.

High reason to seek help

• Many contributing factors (8+).
• Associated pain, significant erectile dysfunction, or severe vaginal dryness.
• Underlying chronic disease or major mood symptoms.

Medical evaluation is recommended. Supplements should not replace proper assessment or prescribed treatment.

Next steps: what to do

1. Track symptoms: Record changes in desire, mood, sleep, and stress for 4–6 weeks.
2. Review medications: Check whether current prescriptions list reduced libido as a side effect.
3. Evaluate lifestyle factors: Physical activity, diet quality, alcohol intake, and screen time.
4. Consult the right specialist: GP (first step), gynecologist, urologist, endocrinologist, or mental health professional.
5. Ask targeted questions: Could hormones, thyroid function, or nutrient deficiencies be involved?
6. Discuss supplement safety: Ask about interactions, correct dosage, and evidence level.
7. Reassess regularly: If trying a supplement, evaluate benefits and side effects after 8–12 weeks.

Common ingredients in libido supplements

Products marketed for sexual vitality may contain ginseng, maca, tribulus terrestris, L-arginine, zinc, saffron, or marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids. Scientific evidence varies in quality and consistency. “Natural” does not automatically mean safe or effective.

Situation	Urgency	Action
Mild, short-term decrease in desire linked to stress	Low	Lifestyle optimization; monitor before using supplements
Persistent low libido without clear cause	Medium	Schedule medical consultation; consider lab tests
Low libido with chronic illness (e.g., diabetes)	High	Comprehensive medical review before any supplement
Sexual pain or severe dysfunction	High	Prompt specialist evaluation
No improvement after trying supplements	Medium	Stop self-medication; reassess with healthcare provider

FAQ

1. Do libido supplements work?

Some ingredients show modest benefits in small studies, but evidence is mixed. Effects vary by individual and underlying cause.

2. Are herbal aphrodisiacs safe?

Not always. They may interact with medications (e.g., blood pressure drugs, antidepressants) or cause side effects.

3. How long before seeing results?

If effective, some products may show changes after 4–8 weeks. Lack of improvement warrants reassessment.

4. Can stress alone reduce libido?

Yes. Psychological stress significantly affects hormonal balance and sexual desire.

5. Should I test hormone levels first?

If symptoms are persistent or severe, hormonal and thyroid testing may be appropriate under medical guidance.

6. Are supplements regulated?

Regulation varies by country. Quality and dosage consistency may differ between brands.

7. Can diet improve sexual health?

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and adequate zinc may support overall wellbeing.

8. When should I avoid supplements?

During pregnancy, breastfeeding, chronic disease management, or when taking multiple medications—unless approved by a clinician.

Sources

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Sexual health and well-being guidelines.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements – Fact sheets on zinc, ginseng, and other botanicals.
• International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) – Clinical resources on sexual dysfunction.
• American Urological Association (AUA) – Guidelines on erectile dysfunction.
• North American Menopause Society (NAMS) – Position statements on female sexual health.

Note: Academic discussions and research updates may appear in our institutional sections such as Avis de Soutenances de Thèses de Doctorat and Slide, reflecting ongoing scientific inquiry into human physiology and natural compounds.