Sexual dysfunction is often treated as an isolated issue, but from a functional and integrative perspective, it is rarely just about sex. A decline in libido, difficulty with arousal or orgasm, or even discomfort during intimacy can be early signals of deeper physiological imbalances — especially in women.
Dr. Lynne Ahn, a Board-Certified Anti-Aging Regenerative Medicine Physician and Integrative Gastroenterologist, views sexual dysfunction not merely as a symptom to suppress, but as a clue pointing to deeper disruptions in hormonal, neurological, or gut health. Through her comprehensive expertise in hormone re-balancing, gut-brain connection, and regenerative medicine, Dr. Ahn helps patients uncover and correct the underlying imbalances affecting their sexual wellness.
A Hormonal Red Flag
Hormones are often the first place to look. Low libido and vaginal dryness are hallmark symptoms of declining estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, particularly in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal years. However, sexual symptoms can even appear in younger women, often due to hormonal dysregulation triggered by chronic stress, birth control use, insulin resistance, or thyroid dysfunction.
Thyroid hormones can especially play a central role. Studies show that both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are associated with decreased sexual desire, lubrication, and satisfaction. One scholarly study found that women with subclinical hypothyroidism reported significantly higher rates of sexual complaints compared to those with normal thyroid function.
The Role of Chronic Stress and the HPA Axis
Sexual dysfunction can also reflect nervous system dysregulation. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which suppresses gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to reduced sex hormone production. This phenomenon, commonly known as hypothalamic amenorrhea in younger women, can affect libido, lubrication, and fertility.
Disrupted sleep, emotional stress, and trauma history can also impact the autonomic nervous system, reducing sexual responsiveness even when hormone levels appear “normal.” Functional strategies to rebalance the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (such as adaptogens, nervous system retraining, and acupuncture) often improve sexual function.
Gut Health and Detox Pathways
Impaired estrogen metabolism, due to sluggish detoxification or gut dysbiosis, is another hidden driver. The estrobolome (the collection of gut bacteria metabolizing estrogens) plays a key role in hormone clearance. When disrupted, excess estrogen or hormone imbalance can contribute to vaginal dryness, fibroids, and painful intercourse.
Toxin load also matters. Environmental endocrine disruptors (like phthalates, BPA, and parabens) mimic or block natural hormones and may interfere with estrogen and testosterone receptors. Supporting phase I and II liver detox pathways can be essential in restoring balance.
Listening to What the Body Is Telling You
At Ahn Point Wellness, we take a systems-based approach to sexual health. If you’re experiencing changes in desire, arousal, or comfort, our goal is to identify and address the root cause—whether hormonal, neurological, inflammatory, or metabolic. With advanced testing and personalized care, sexual dysfunction becomes an invitation to restore whole-body health.
We welcome patients from Boston, Brookline, Wellesley, and surrounding areas. Call (781) 785-8815 to schedule your consultation.
