# Libido ups and downs

> Why your sex drive changes – across your cycle and your life.

Category: Sex & relationships · 4 min read · Written by the Splash team · Sources checked October 2026
URL: https://splash.care/learn/sex-relationships/libido-ups-and-downs

## Quick answer

- Libido naturally varies – there’s no normal amount.
- Many people notice a peak around ovulation and a dip before periods.
- Stress, relationships, medicines and contraception can all play a part.
- A GP can help if it’s bothering you.

Some weeks you’re all heart-eyes, others you’d rather cuddle a hot water bottle. Your [Libido](https://splash.care/learn/glossary/libido) isn’t a fixed setting – it shifts with [hormones](https://splash.care/learn/cycle-basics/hormones-explained), [stress](https://splash.care/learn/cycle-basics/stress-travel-illness), [sleep](https://splash.care/learn/movement-sleep/sleep-cycle), relationships and life. There’s no “normal” amount of wanting sex.

## Across your cycle

- **Period:** Often lower – cramps and tiredness don’t scream romance. Some people feel extra frisky though!
- **Follicular:** Energy and desire often build as oestrogen rises.
- **Ovulation:** Many people notice a peak – higher sex drive is a common ovulation sign.
- **Luteal:** Can dip, especially if PMS shows up. Be gentle with yourself.

## Bigger-picture causes of low libido (NHS)

- Relationship problems
- Stress, [anxiety](https://splash.care/learn/mind-mood/luteal-anxiety) or depression
- Sexual problems like vaginal dryness or erection issues
- [Pregnancy](https://splash.care/learn/fertility-ttc/early-pregnancy-signs) and caring for a baby
- Some medicines, such as antidepressants
- Hormonal contraception like the pill, patch or implant
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Long-term conditions such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid

> **Splash says:** log your drive in the Love section for a few cycles. You might find your own personal “spicy week” pattern!

**Myth:** Desire should just appear out of nowhere.

**Fact:** For lots of people desire shows up after things get started – touch, closeness and arousal can come first. That’s completely normal.

### When to see a doctor

See a GP if low libido is worrying you, you think a medicine or contraception is affecting it, or your sex drive hasn’t returned after pregnancy. Don’t stop prescribed medicine without advice.

## Sources

1. [NHS – Loss of libido](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/loss-of-libido/)
2. [Cleveland Clinic – Ovulation](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23439-ovulation)
3. [NHS – Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-menstrual-syndrome/)

This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US).