Firing Up Sexual Desire

• Vaginal dryness not only causes discomfort and pain, but contributes to not wanting future sexual activity. If this is a problem for you, stop expecting your body to lubricate naturally and try some of the many lubricants designed for sex. Price suggests silky lubricants "that feel great and bring back the joy of friction." Use lubricants for partnered sex as well as self-pleasuring (also known by the much less fun-sounding term, "masturbation").

• Take your time. You—and very possibly your partner, if you have one—may need more time to get from zero to 60. Set aside time for sex, away from kids, pets, work and any other intrusions. (Vacation sex is a real phenomenon.) Your "best time" might no longer be late at night, so rethink your options. For women who've lost their interest in sex, having leisurely and pleasurable contact often leads to arousal, which then brings on sexual desire.

• Make adjustments if health problems limit your movement or strength during sex. "Some positions aren't as comfortable with arthritis or a bad back," says Price. "Maybe we can't bear weight on our knees or arms." Her advice? Find the right pillows and positions, use plenty of lubricant and "figure out a way around the challenges."

• Try new things. There are women-friendly sex shops as well as online stores where you'll find sex toys and other supplies that may help you regain lost desire. These can be helpful if the sex in your relationship has gotten dull, Dr. Carpenter says, as well as for sexual fun when you're on your own.

• See a doctor if you think your (or your partner's) lack of desire may be linked to a medical condition. Medications, including some antidepressants, can turn off your turn-on switch, but your doctor should be able to find other options for you. If emotional issues are standing in the way of your enjoying sex, talk with a counselor or therapist.

• Move more. Exercise enhances sexual pleasure, says Price. Getting physically active with your partner outside the bedroom benefits your overall health and mood as well as your shared sex life. She advises single women to try social dancing, calling it "a fabulous way to be in someone's arms non-sexually."

• See yourself as beautiful. You don't have to love every single change that aging may bring, but look beyond the rigid notion that beauty—and sexiness—belongs only to the young.