No — this is not permanent. And it is not a reflection of your relationship, your love for your husband, or anything you have done or not done.

Low libido during perimenopause is a physiological symptom with a direct hormonal cause. Oestrogen and testosterone — both present and important in women — directly influence sexual desire, arousal, sensitivity, and response. As oestrogen declines in perimenopause and ovarian testosterone production decreases, desire can fall significantly. Some women describe it as a switch being turned off. It can feel bewildering and distressing, particularly when the relationship is otherwise close and loving.

There is often a physical layer underneath the loss of desire: genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — vaginal dryness, thinning, and reduced lubrication — makes sex uncomfortable or painful. When the brain learns that intimacy leads to discomfort, desire logically retreats further. This is not psychological weakness; it is the brain doing its job of avoiding things that hurt.

Treatment options that work and are available in India:

Vaginal oestrogen (low-dose, local — available as a cream or pessary) is very effective for GSM and uses minimal systemic oestrogen. It improves vaginal tissue health, lubrication, and sensitivity directly. It is generally considered separately from systemic HRT and has a strong safety record.

Systemic HRT (oestrogen + progesterone) addresses libido more broadly by restoring oestrogen systemically.

Testosterone therapy is used in some cases for libido specifically — discuss with a gynaecologist experienced in menopause medicine.

Good quality lubricants help immediately: water-based lubricants are widely available at pharmacies and online in India.

Please see a gynaecologist — this is a legitimate, common, and very treatable symptom.