Low libido, or a low sex drive, refers to a decreased interest in sexual activity. It is different from erectile dysfunction and infertility because those refer specifically to the physiological inability to have sex. Low libido is used to describe reduced sexual desire.
Some key points about low libido:
There are many potential causes of low libido, including:
Low testosterone is a major cause in men. Menopause and hormonal birth control can decrease libido for women. Relationship issues and stress also dampen sexual desire significantly.
Signs of low libido may include:
If low libido persists for a long time, causes distress, or impacts a relationship, it becomes clinically concerning and should be evaluated.
Diagnosing low libido involves identifying underlying causes. Blood tests check hormones and health markers. Doctors also ask about medications, health issues, lifestyle, and relationships to uncover contributing factors.
Treatments target the specific causes when possible. Counseling often helps address psychological components. For many men, testosterone replacement boosts libido. Products like () safely increase testosterone.
Some ways to try improving libido naturally include:
If no underlying cause is found but both partners want to increase sexual activity, coordinating intimacy more intentionally can help. Even just taking sex off the table for a period of time to rediscover physical intimacy without expectation can reset the dynamics.
Low libido or loss of sexual desire is complex with no one-size-fits-all solution. But identifying contributing lifestyle factors, getting checked for underlying illness, considering relationship dynamics, and having open conversations are healthy starting points. Solutions exist - don't lose hope!