How, exactly, does stress affect one's libido on a biological level? 

When people experience stress, their body produces more adrenaline and cortisol, which typically creates a state of fight or flight. When someone’s nervous system is hyperaroused in a fear state, it is almost impossible to access pleasure in an integrated way, where their mind and body are on the same page. Similarly, stress also affects some people by causing feelings of overwhelm, from which they go into a freeze state. Essentially, it is almost impossible to be in the present moment in either of these emotional and physiological “offline” states. Desire, arousal, and the ability to access pleasure are significantly reduced. 

How can couples handle a difference in how “sexy” they're feeling? 

First, identify the discrepancy and then look for ways to understand it. Is it a time of day issue, or is it about body image? Maybe it's about work stress or a health issue. Openly talking about what the blockers are to desire facilitates a path to changing it. In my practice, the continuum of change I take my clients through is awareness, understanding, and behavior change. It is hard to make significant, long-lasting change if we don’t first have an awareness of what’s going on, followed by a deeper understanding of the core issues creating the blocks. 

If both partners are feeling more stressed in their lives, what suggestions do you have on how they can address the situation together? 

(See above), and absolutely make sure to schedule a time once a week that only involves the two of them, ensuring that the activity is pleasure-based. This could include a walk, a date night, or an hour set aside to spend in bed where they give each other pleasurable massages, read erotica together, or have sex in a way that feels fulfilling to both of them. 

Are there ways women can boost their libido naturally? 

Anything that reduces stress will naturally create easier access to your libido. What each person finds relaxing or stress-reducing is of course unique, but things that we know help include exercise, time spent in nature, time pursuing a hobby or passionate project, and time with people who make you feel accepted.

What's particularly special about Dame's new gummies? 

Dame’s gummies are unique in the market because they tackle the core issues of low desire, which studies show is stress. The natural, active ingredients support relaxation and stress reduction. Other ingredients target increased mood, which directly impacts how connected to their partner a woman feels. Dame’s gummies are holistic, meant to be taken daily, and support an overall feeling of wellness. Since we know sexual health is an integral part of overall health, it feels particularly hopeful that Dame’s gummies support the whole person rather than a sexual side effect. 

Anything else our audience should know about when it comes to stress and libido? 

Stress and libido exist on opposite ends of the pleasure spectrum! It’s impossible to feel aroused if you feel stressed. Finally, we have a natural product that targets the source of libido issues for women by supporting their overall wellbeing.