Perimenopause libido dropping after 40? If sex feels different—lower desire, more dryness, shorter fuse, less connection—your hormones (not your relationship) may be the missing piece. In this episode of Ask a Sex Therapist, Heather Shannon talks with board-certified OB-GYN + functional/integrative hormone expert Dr. Tara Scott about the most common hormone shifts that impact women’s sex drive across postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause—and why women’s desire is often more “Goldilocks” than linear (too little or too much estrogen can cause problems).

You’ll learn how hormone testing can be interpreted when timing is right, why blood levels don’t always match what’s happening in your tissues, and how chronic stress can quietly deplete DHEA and testosterone (even in your 30s and 40s). Dr. Scott also breaks down practical, realistic ways to support hormone health—movement, food quality, sleep, stress tools, and reducing endocrine disruptors—without trying to overhaul your entire life overnight. If you’re dealing with low libido, vaginal dryness, painful sex, fatigue, sleep changes, or irritability, this conversation will help you understand what’s normal, what’s treatable, and how to advocate for better care.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hormonal Health

01:22 Understanding Hormonal Shifts Throughout Life

03:41 Differences in Male and Female Libido

14:00 Personalizing Hormonal Treatment

28:46 The Impact of Lifestyle on Hormonal Balance

Want to address the emotional and psychological factors blocking your sex life?

Request a free consultation for coaching/therapy with Heather or a member of her team here: Booking A Consultation With The Right Person

Learn more about our guest Dr. Tara Scott at:

Website - https://drtarascott.com/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TaraScottMD