Libido, like a partner’s mood, can fluctuate and is not constant. Sexual desire may decrease due to stress, hormonal changes, or chronic illnesses, which can lead to irregular sexual activity or the complete absence of sex.
What is Low Libido?
Libido is the desire for sexual activity, which may include both sexual intercourse with a partner and achieving orgasm through masturbation. There is no “normal” or “abnormal” level of libido, as sexual desire is regulated by hormones and changes throughout life.
Low libido is defined as a decreased frequency of sexual desire compared to what you previously experienced. It can be temporary or long-lasting, as multiple factors can affect it. However, if the reduced libido causes you discomfort, you should consult a doctor to identify and address the underlying cause.
Symptoms of Low Libido
The main symptom of low libido is a reduction in sexual desire. Other symptoms include:
- Lack of interest or reduced interest in any type of sexual activity;
- Decrease in thoughts about sex and sexual fantasies;
- Feelings of emotional discomfort due to diminished sexual desire.
If a person is not engaging in any sexual activity at all, this could indicate a complete loss of libido.
Which Hormones Affect Libido?
Hormones are the main regulators of sexual desire and affecet libido through neurotransmitters. In men, testosterone is responsible for libido—it is produced in the testes and also impacts the quality of erections. If a man has low testosterone levels, his sexual desire diminishes as well. Therefore, the first step in addressing low libido in men is to consult a urologist and get tested for testosterone levels.
Which Chronic Conditions Can Lower Libido?
Chronic diseases of various organs and systems, particularly endocrine, gynecological, and infectious disorders, can decrease sexual desire
Other causes of reduced sexual desire include diseases of the reproductive organs (such as vaginismus or colpitis in women) and sexually transmitted infections. These conditions may cause discomfort during sex, leading to a lack of sexual desire.
Libido and Stress
Stressful situations and emotional strain cause hormonal fluctuations, which can temporarily decrease sexual desire. Stress can also lead to blood vessel constriction, reducing blood flow and causing erectile dysfunction in men.
The effect of stress on libido is usually temporary. Reducing emotional tension through adequate rest, meditation, breathing exercises, and moderate physical activity can help. However, if you cannot alleviate stress on your own, consider consulting a psychologist who can help you overcome the stressful situation and restore your libido.
Impact of Medications on Libido
Taking certain medications can influence testosterone levels and decrease sexual desire. This includes drugs used for high blood pressure, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers. Other medications that may affect testosterone levels and libido include:
- Certain antifungal medications;
- Medications for heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD);
- Corticosteroids and hormones used for prostate cancer treatment;
- Radiation and chemotherapy drugs;
- Anabolic steroids;
- Opioid painkillers;
- Certain categories of antidepressants.
- Sildenafil Citrate and Tadalafil Medications (Viagra, Cialis)
Five Simple Tips to Increase Libido
So, what can be done if your libido drops? It all depends on how much the decrease in sexual desire concerns you. If the reduction in sexual desire worries you, here are five simple and effective tips to boost libido:
- Avoid stress and emotional overload, as they increase the level of cortisol (the stress hormone) and reduce the desire for sexual activity.
- Engage in moderate physical activity. It helps reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases associated with low libido, lowers cortisol levels, and enhances sexual desire. However, excessive physical exertion, such as heavy weight training, can reduce libido in men.
- Normalize your sleep. Lack of or insufficient sleep can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythms, leading to hormonal imbalances and reduced sexual desire. The optimal sleep duration is 7-9 hours per night.
- Balance your diet. A healthy diet improves overall well-being, reduces the risk of diabetes and obesity (which can affect sexual desire), and helps maintain adequate vitamin levels. While foods like coffee and chocolate are considered aphrodisiacs, they do not significantly boost libido.
- Check your hormone levels, as they are the most significant factor influencing sexual desire and the ability to enjoy sex.
Libido is like mood: it varies for everyone and can change due to different factors. If your frequency of sexual desire is not causing discomfort, there’s no need to take any action, as it is not a disease. Otherwise, consult a gynecologist or urologist who can help identify and address the cause of reduced libido.
