Sexual desire isn’t one-size-fits-all, it ebbs and flows, often influenced by more than just mood. If your once-burning passion has cooled, you should rest assured knowing that these things happen.
There are many reasons why your libido might take a backseat and health experts give details on what these are because understanding the “why” can help you reignite the spark or embrace where you are.
The Cleveland Clinic clarifies that the causes of a low libido can be either medical or psychological. It is mentioned that relationship problems, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, and a history of sexual trauma can all contribute to a decrease in sex drive.
The above clinic further explains that chronic stress can interfere with hormone levels, leading to lower libido and that anxiety disorders can increase cortisol levels, suppressing sex hormones. “Antidepressants, antipsychotic medications, chemotherapy drugs and blood pressure medications can decrease your sex drive.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, pain during sex, nonsexual diseases like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological diseases can reduce sex drive. Additionally, it is mentioned that lifestyle habits like excessive alcohol, smoking, and surgery can also impact sexual function and desire for sex.
Menopause causes sexual problems due to decreased estrogen and testosterone levels, leading to discomfort and painful intercourse, claimed Medical News Today. The publication also mentions that hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can also affect a woman’s sex drive, with some experiencing increased interest while others may have low libido.
The mentioned source adds that low libido treatment varies depending on the cause, such as medication side effects or underlying medical conditions. “Sometimes, simple lifestyle changes may help a person regain sexual desire. Eating a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, reducing or cutting out alcohol, and losing weight may help increase interest in sex and improve a person’s overall health.
Another suggestion offered by Medical News Today is to consider sex therapy as it can help deal with trauma and improve self-esteem. “If a man has low testosterone and bothersome symptoms, a doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy. This medication can be in the form of topical patches or injections.
Also see: Breaking down sexual wellbeing
