What is decreased libido?
Decreased libido, also known as low sex drive or inhibited sexual desire, refers to a lower interest in sexual activity than is considered average. Both physiological and psychological factors can contribute to decreased libido.
Common causes of decreased libido
- Hormonal changes - Fluctuations in testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can negatively impact sex drive.
- Medical conditions - Chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and cancer often interfere with sexual desire.
- Medications - Many prescription drugs list low libido as a potential side effect. Birth control, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications are common culprits.
- Fatigue and stress - High stress levels place the body in fight-or-flight mode, redirecting energy away from the sex drive. Physical or emotional exhaustion can also dampen arousal.
- Depression and anxiety - Mental health conditions frequently involve decreased libido. A diminished interest in pleasurable activities like sex is a hallmark of depression.
- Relationship issues - Interpersonal problems with an intimate partner commonly create barriers to sexual interest and enjoyment. Poor communication or anger toward a partner negatively impacts desire.
Signs of decreased libido
How do you know if your libido is lower than normal? Warning signs of low sex drive include:
- Rarely or never feeling aroused
- Not being interested in or enjoying sexual activity
- Feeling stressed or disinterested when a partner initiates sex
- Having sex less often than is normal for your relationship
What you can do
If ongoing decreased libido is interfering with your well-being or relationship satisfaction, consider making an appointment with a doctor or sex therapist to explore potential causes and solutions. Blood tests can check hormone levels, while counseling provides tools for managing stress and improving intimate communication.
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Holistic approaches to boost libido
In addition to medical and therapeutic options, many natural remedies and lifestyle changes may enhance sex drive:
- Reduce alcohol intake - Despite short-term loosening of inhibitions from drinking, alcohol depresses testosterone production which can hamper arousal long-term.
- Exercise regularly - Daily movement encourages healthy circulation and hormonal balance to reignite passion and enjoyment of sex.
- Try supplements - Spices like nutmeg and saffron, amino acids like L-arginine, ginkgo biloba, maca root, and zinc have shown promising effects on libido in some studies. Consult your doctor before trying supplements.
- Improve sleep habits - Adequate sleep ensures you have the energy to even want sex, while also optimizing hormone function.
- Boost intimacy - More frequent acts of affection, sensual touch, erotic talk, and quality time together outside the bedroom can increase emotional closeness with your partner and translate to greater sexual connection.
With some patience and diligence finding the approach that works for your unique situation, most cases of decreased libido can be improved or resolved fully. Don't lose hope! There are many solutions to boost your sex drive back to a level that makes you feel happy and fully alive.