“Sex relieves tension – love causes it.” ~ Woody Allen
When Your Sex Drive Is Low
It can be devastating when you go through a season of low libido.
The desire to have sex may be there, but the ability to perform is lacking.
Maybe the desire is not there, and you would rather work on your career, hobbies, etc., than connect with your spouse.
Whatever the situation, having low libido can be uncomfortable to discuss, discouraging to experience (for both parties involved), and interrupt the ability to meet the needs of our spouse or connect in a deeper, intimate way.
If you are struggling with a low sex drive, know that you are not alone. Low libido is not uncommon.
Below, we will review eight common causes of low sex drive. They are as follows:
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Medications
- Stress
- Anxiety and Depression
- Relationship Issues
- Fatigue and Sleep Problems
- Aging
- Medical Conditions
Let’s begin!
Eight Common Causes of Low Sex Drive
Many factors can contribute to low sex drive, also known as hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). These consist of the following:
1. Hormonal Imbalances
An imbalance in testosterone, estrogen, or thyroid hormones can decrease sex drive.
2. Medications
Some medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications, can have a side effect of reducing libido.
3. Stress
Chronic stress can affect hormone levels and decrease libido. When our mind is preoccupied with many things, this can hinder our desire to want to have a time of intimacy.
4. Anxiety and Depression
These mental health conditions can interfere with sexual desire and function.
When we are perpetually anxious or depressed, it can be difficult to want to have sex. This is due to various reasons, including low self-esteem, poor image of oneself, a dreary outlook on life, and not wanting to have sex or do other activities.
5. Relationship Issues
Problems in a relationship, such as poor communication or unresolved conflicts, can reduce sexual desire.
Make sure to see a therapist or marriage counselor if you are having perpetual issues in your marriage.
6. Fatigue and Sleep Problems
“Sleep deprivation has been associated with reduced sexual desire and arousal.”
Lack of sleep and fatigue can lower sex drive. Not getting enough sleep has been associated with specific sexual problems – infertility, reduced sex drive, and erectile dysfunction.
Make sure to prioritize sleep! If you are interested in learning more about sleep, check out our following article, Not Sleeping Well? 20 Tips to Getting Better Sleep.
7. Aging
As people age, hormone levels naturally decline, which can lead to a decrease in sex drive.
To increase your libido, check out our article, How to Increase Libido – 10 Ways to Boost Your Sex Life.
8. Medical Conditions
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, as well as chronic pain and arthritis, can contribute to low sex drive.
It’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing decreased sexual desire, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Next Steps to Increasing Sex Drive
If you are experiencing a low sex drive for one of the reasons above, know this can be addressed!
You are not alone when it comes to low libido. Many have received the appropriate help to get their libido back on track. What could have been long-term became only a season.
Our team at Tiger Medical has the experience, clinical skills, and coaching acumen to help you get your sex drive and energy back.
To talk to one of our professionals, click here to schedule your call!
For further reading, view the following articles on our learning center:
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