CLAYTON, VICTORIA, Australia, June 18 (UPI) -- Australian researchers said they have uncovered a new role for the hormone DHEA in signifying low libido.
Researchers at the Jean Hailes Foundation said they looked at 1,423 women ages 18 to 75 and found a strong relationship between low scores for desire among test subjects and low DHEA levels. They also found a correlation between low levels of the hormone and low levels of arousal and responsiveness.
"We undertook this study to determine whether women with low libido also had low levels of androgens," said Susan Davis, the foundation's director of research.
She added that sexual function is complex and not simply a function of hormones. Sexual desire also involves an intricate interplay of biological changes such as psychological influences including relationship factors, body image, aging, menopause, social and cultural expectations, Davis said.
