Dear Dr. Milrod:

I have noticed a parallel between last year and this year as far as my sex life is concerned. About this time last year, I entered a stretch from October through December in which I went into a real slump: lousy erections, less libido, sub-par performance, and difficulty finishing.  From January though August things were pretty much back to normal. It looks like the same thing is happening now. Although I suppose there is no definitive answer, I nevertheless am wondering if a down stretch is normal, and could it really be a seasonal thing?

Slumping in Bed

Dear Slumping in Bed:

Yes, for some individuals it surely can be a seasonal thing, much related to SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some individuals whose circadian rhythm gets affected by shorter days/longer nights/less sunlight enter into something akin to dysthymia or low-grade depression. In addition, such individuals may eat more carbs/exercise less/feel more tired/fall into a slump in general. If you are one of those individuals, you may need “sunlight therapy” to feel better. In Scandinavian countries, some people go and sit in front of “light therapy” boxes that emit certain frequencies of light that simulate sun rays. For you, a brief vacation in the sun might be just the ticket during those winter months. And of course, don’t forget to take a daily dose of Vitamin D, which regulates sex hormones. Debates on dosage continue, but 2,000-5,000 IU are safe for daily use.

Christine Milrod, Ph.D.