What is decreased libido?
Decreased libido, or low sex drive, is when a person experiences a lower interest in sexual activity than is normal for them. This can negatively impact romantic relationships and a person's self-image. There are various potential causes of decreased libido including:
- Hormonal changes - Fluctuations in testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can affect sexual desire. Perimenopause and menopause in women, andropause in men, postpartum hormone changes, and birth control use can contribute.
- Medical conditions - Issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, depression or anxiety, arthritis, cancer treatments, and neurological conditions can lower libido.
- Medications - Many prescription drugs like blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and opioids can inhibit sex drive as a side effect.
- Stress - High stress levels increase cortisol production which can suppress testosterone and sexual desire. Financial, work, or family stress often play a role.
- Lifestyle factors - Lack of sleep, poor diet, alcohol abuse, smoking, and lack of exercise can all reduce libido.
- Relationship issues - Interpersonal problems, poor communication, unresolved conflicts, boredom, and lack of emotional intimacy with a partner may decrease sexual interest.
If you've noticed a persistent decrease in your libido, there are solutions that can help boost your sex drive. The medical providers at Endocrine Wellness Center specialize in treating hormone imbalances that inhibit libido through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes. Their individualized treatment plans help both men and women reclaim their sexual vitality in a comfortable, judgement-free environment. Contact them today for a consultation!
Here are some steps you can take to naturally increase low libido:
- Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, or spending more time on hobbies
- Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night
- Follow a nutrient-dense diet high in vegetables, proteins, and anti-inflammatory fats
- Limit or abstain from smoking, excessive drinking, and recreational drugs
- Communicate openly with your partner about your sexual needs and desires
- Consider couples counseling to improve emotional intimacy
- Incorporate more exercise, self-care, and intimacy into your routine
Implementing small, consistent lifestyle and relationship changes can make a big difference in improving decreased libido. But if low sex drive persists or causes distress, consult your doctor or a specialist like Endocrine Wellness Center to uncover any underlying medical issues contributing to the problem. Regaining your sex drive and passion for life is possible with proper support!