Does an IUD Lower Libido? What Every Midlife Woman Should Know

Does an IUD lower libido? Yes, for some women, an IUD—especially a hormonal one—can lower libido. But not always.

Sex drive is personal and depends on many things like stress, age, hormones, and even your relationship. That’s what we’re diving into in this post.

If you're noticing a change in how you feel, it’s worth learning more.

What Is An IUD and How Does It Work?

An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small T-shaped tool that your doctor places inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy. It's one of the most common types of birth control for midlife women because it's long-lasting and doesn’t need daily attention.

There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. They both prevent pregnancy, but they work differently—and they may affect your body in different ways too.

What is a Hormonal IUD?

Hormonal IUDs slowly release a hormone called progestin. This hormone thickens your cervical mucus, thins the uterine lining, and sometimes stops ovulation.

Does a Hormonal IUD Affect Libido?

Since hormonal IUDs release progestin, it might lower testosterone in the body. And testosterone plays a role in sex drive, that drop can make you feel “off” in the bedroom.

But of course — the results aren’t the same for everyone. A lot of women don’t notice any big change. In fact, some even say their libido goes up after getting an IUD. About 1 in 10 women feel their desire go down, while around 1 in 5 say it actually gets better.

Every body is different, and your experience might not match someone else’s.

What is a Copper IUD?

Unlike Homonal IUDs, Copper IUDs don’t have hormones. Instead, the copper stops sperm from reaching the egg. They create an environment that is not hospitable to sperm and also alters the uterine lining, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

That said, Copper IUDs can sometimes cause heavier periods or cramping, especially at first.

Does a Copper IUD Affect Libido?

To answer it directly, NO. There is no evidence that Copper IUDs can affect one’s libido.

What Else Affects Your Sex Drive?

Libido isn’t just physical—it’s also emotional, hormonal, and psychological. It fluctuates, and that’s normal. Here are a few common factors:

There are a few key things that can affect your sex drive:

1. Hormones

Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone play a big role in how your body feels. Changes during perimenopause, menopause, or with hormonal birth control can shift your libido up or down.

2. Stress

If your mind is busy or overwhelmed, it can be hard to feel in the mood. Stress is one of the biggest libido blockers.

3. Age

As you get older, natural changes in hormones and health can affect your sex drive. That doesn’t mean it goes away—it just might look different. And if dryness is part of the problem, using a moisturizer like Loob Daily can make intimacy more comfortable.

4. Medications

Some medicines, like antidepressants or blood pressure pills, can lower desire. Always check with your doctor if you notice a change after starting a new prescription.

Your sex drive is shaped by many things—not just birth control. But if you’ve noticed a difference after getting an IUD, it’s worth looking closer.

What are the Signs Your IUD Might Be Affecting Your Libido?

If you’re wondering, "does IUD lower libido?" and you’ve noticed a big change in your sex drive after getting one, it might be time to check in with your doctor.

Here are some signs your IUD could be playing a role:

You had a healthy libido before, but it dropped soon after getting the IUD.
You’re feeling less interested in sex without any other clear reason.
You’re also dealing with mood swings, vaginal dryness, or discomfort during sex.

These changes might not all be caused by the IUD—but they’re worth talking about.

If you’re looking for gentle support while figuring things out, a natural libido-boosting supplement like In the Mood Libido Drops may help you feel more connected to yourself again.

Conclusion

If you’ve been asking yourself, "does IUD lower libido?"—know that you’re not alone. Many women have the same questions and concerns, especially during midlife when so many other changes are happening too.

Sometimes, small changes make a big difference. A soothing vulva balm like Smooth Daily can ease discomfort and help you feel more like yourself again.

And if you're ever unsure, talk to a provider you trust. You deserve answers, support, and options that work for your body—and your pleasure.

FAQs

1. Can switching IUD types help improve libido?

Yes, sometimes switching from a hormonal IUD to a copper one—or vice versa—can help if libido changes are linked to hormones.

2. How long after getting an IUD might changes in sex drive happen?

You might feel a change in your sex drive soon after getting an IUD. For some of us, it happens right away. For others, it takes a few months as the body settles in. Everyone’s body reacts a little differently, and that’s totally normal.