What is a Low Sex Drive?
First, let’s make one thing clear. There is no right or wrong level of sexual desire. Everyone has their own sexual desire, and the stereotype that men are always ready is clearly harmful.
Medically, low sex drive is marked by a decrease in your general libido.
However, it’s also important to note that your sex drive naturally fluctuates, depending on your health and what’s going on in your life.
For example, if you’re going through a stressful time at work or you’ve caught a seasonal cold, your sex drive will be lower than normal for a short period.
Low sex drive becomes a problem when it interferes with other aspects of your life, relationships, or your health.
Chronic low libido can also be a sign of another health problem. In fact, many problems can cause a low sex drive.
Causes of Low Libido
A variety of physical, mental, and emotional health problems can cause a loss of libido. The ten most common causes of a loss of libido are:
Low Testosterone
Testosterone is the hormone that regulates your sexual function and other health characteristics such as muscle mass, bone density, and red blood cell production.
It also triggers the maturation of your male sexual characteristics during puberty.
Your testosterone levels naturally decline as you age.
However, some men have a more severe or sudden drop in testosterone, causing a loss of libido as well as other symptoms, including:
- Weight gain
- Loss of muscle mass
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Loss of concentration
A simple internet search can provide dozens of “remedies” for low testosterone. However, you should seek advice from a specialist you trust.
Medicines
Several common medications can interfere with your sex drive, including blood pressure medications such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, corticosteroids, antidepressants, and cimetidine (a heartburn/GERD medication).
Additionally, chemotherapy, radiation, opioids, and anabolic steroids can also lead to a decrease in libido.
Sexual Problems
Loss of libido in women is often caused by sexual dysfunction. However, men may also experience a low sex drive if they have ejaculation problems or erectile dysfunction.
Men may not want to talk about sexual dysfunction with anyone, including their doctors.
Still, if you experience Erectile Dysfunction or Ejaculation Problems, talking to your doctor is the best way to find out the cause of your problem and get proper treatment.
Depression
Loss of libido is a common symptom of depression.
As mentioned, some antidepressant medications can reduce your sexual desire.
Chronic Diseases
Many chronic diseases can affect your sperm count and libido. For example, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity can cause a decrease in libido.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Excessive alcohol consumption (more than 14 mixed drinks a week) is associated with decreased testosterone production and a decrease in sex drive.
Similarly, tobacco and illegal drugs can interfere with your hormone health and sex drive.
Lack of Exercise
Fitness can reduce diet-related health risks such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, all of which are associated with decreased libido.
Additionally, exercise can lower your cortisol levels and increase your endorphins, which reduce stress, improve your mood, and increase your sex drive.
If you’re concerned about your physical training and sexual health, talk to your doctor.
Stress
As mentioned, stress is a common cause of short-term libido loss.
Low Self-Esteem
If you are feeling bad about yourself, you will be less likely to want to have sex. Low self-esteem affects your self-confidence and can cause anxiety about sexual performance.
Relationship Problems
A troubled relationship, doubts, and worries can reduce your desire for your partner. It is not uncommon for over-familiarity to develop in a long-term relationship or for unresolved conflicts to affect sex drive.
What should I do if I have a low sexual desire?
Your doctor provides a personalized treatment plan after completing an exam and testing. Then, they select treatments and therapies to address the specific underlying cause of your decreased libido.
Also Read- How to Cure Erectile Dysfunction at Home
What are common treatments for low libido?
1- Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise to boost energy and improve mood.
- A balanced diet is rich in essential nutrients.
- Adequate sleep and stress management.
2- Psychological Support
- Counseling or therapy to address underlying emotional or relationship issues.
- Stress reduction techniques like mindfulness and meditation.
3- Medical Evaluation
- Treating underlying medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or diabetes.
- Addressing side effects of medications that may lower libido.
4- Hormone Therapy
- Testosterone replacement therapy (for men and women with clinically low levels).
- Estrogen or progesterone therapy (for women, especially postmenopausal).
5- Medication Adjustments
- Switching medications if current drugs are contributing to low libido.
- Use of FDA-approved medications like flibanserin (for women) or other suitable options.
6- Improving Relationship Dynamics
- Open communication between partners.
- Couples therapy to address intimacy concerns.
7- Sexual Education and Techniques
- Learning about sexual health and experimenting with new techniques.
- Use of lubricants or other aids to improve comfort and enjoyment.
8- Managing Substance Use
- Reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking.
- Avoiding recreational drug use.
9- Addressing Mental Health
- Treatment for depression or anxiety, which may contribute to low libido.
- Support groups or therapy for trauma-related issues.
10- Alternative Therapies
- Acupuncture or herbal remedies (after consulting a healthcare provider).
- Yoga or other holistic practices to enhance body awareness and relaxation.
Counseling
If your decreased libido is due to depression, anxiety, stress, or relationship problems, your doctor may suggest professional counseling.
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