What is decreased libido?
Decreased libido, or low sex drive, refers to a decrease in desire for sexual activity. It is a common condition that can impact people of all genders and ages. Some potential causes of decreased libido include:
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can lead to decreased libido. This is commonly seen during menopause, after pregnancy, or with oral contraceptives.
- Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and heart disease are associated with decreased libido. Additionally, conditions that cause pain during sex make people avoid intimacy.
- Medications: Many prescription drugs impact hormones and neurotransmitters tied to libido. Antidepressants, blood pressure meds, and opioids are some of the top culprits.
- Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, poor body image, and previous negative sexual experiences can dampen arousal and desire for sex.
- Lifestyle factors: Lack of sleep, alcohol abuse, recreational drug use, and smoking cigarettes have correlations with sexual dysfunction including low libido.
What are the symptoms of decreased libido?
People with decreased sex drive may experience:
- Little interest in any sexual activity, alone or with a partner
- Difficulty getting aroused
- Reduction in sexual thoughts, fantasies, and spontaneous desire
- Need for extensive stimulation to become aroused
- Avoiding sexual encounters
- Frustration around lack of sexual enjoyment
If you check several boxes above, bring up low libido concerns with your doctor. Blood tests can uncover hormonal imbalances contributing to the problem. Your physician may switch medications, adjust dosages, or suggest libido-boosting alternatives like testosterone therapy.
What lifestyle changes improve low libido?
Natural ways to bolster lagging sex drive include:
- Reducing stress through yoga, meditation, or counseling
- Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly
- Exercising 150 minutes per week
- Enjoying sensual activities without pressure for sex
- Spending quality time together as a couple outside the bedroom
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Staying physically affectionate through kissing, hugging, massage
While dealing with decreased libido can feel frustrating, various therapies bring hope. Determine the underlying cause with your doctor, then implement lifestyle tweaks and treatment plans catered to your needs. This collaborative approach helps rekindle satisfying intimacy.
At Restore Health Clinic, our experienced medical professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances that can contribute to decreased libido. We offer comprehensive hormone testing and personalized treatment plans to help you restore your sexual vitality and overall well-being.