Low libido is a loss of sex desire that can make sexual activity difficult. While it can generate tension in a relationship by instilling doubt and guilt in both parties, the underlying cause can frequently be discovered and remedied. It’s typically not a huge issue if this happens once in a while, but if it happens frequently, something is wrong. “Some people believe that low sex desire in males does not exist, but it does, and it is rather frequent,” says Andrea Fagiolini, M.D., of the University of Siena in Italy, who adds that it’s not always a psychological issue—say, a disagreement with or about your partner—but more often a physiological one.

Although the two disorders can coexist, low libido should not be mistaken with erectile dysfunction (ED). To cope while recognizing the probable causes, a couple has to communicate and be honest with one other. Psychotherapy, hormone replacement, lifestyle changes, and medication adjustments are some of the options for treatment. This article will talk about the causes and treatment of low libido in men. 

Causes Of Low Sex Drive In Men

Low sex drive is usually caused by low libido in men. Causes of low libido can be caused by a single reason, but it’s more likely to be caused by a combination of variables, each of which contributes in its own manner. Low testosterone, medicines, depression, chronic disease, and stress are some of the more prevalent reasons.

Mentioned below are some possible causes of low libido:

1. Low testosterone

In males, testosterone is an important sex hormone. It’s in charge of typical masculine features like facial hair and muscular mass. This hormone also aids in sperm production and sex desire. Testosterone levels peak in youth and early adulthood, then gradually decline as you get older, dropping by around 1% to 2% each year starting in your 30s. You may have low testosterone if your levels fall below a particular threshold (hypogonadism).Low testosterone levels, contrary to common perception, seldom cause erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone, on the other hand, can cause problems with sex in different ways. Low testosterone causes some men’s libido to diminish, while others lose interest in sex entirely.

2. Depression

Depression affects all aspects of a person’s life. People who are depressed have a diminished or complete lack of interest in formerly pleasant activities, such as sex. Low libido and depression may be linked. Depression might not only cause a decrease in sex desire, but it can also be the result of it, exacerbating an already difficult situation. Additionally, while antidepressants are useful in treating depression, they might worsen sexual desire issues. Some medications cause low libido as a side effect, such as:

• Duloxetine is an example of a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) (Cymbalta)
• SSRIs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline, are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (Zoloft)

3. Stress and sleep disorders

While stress can reduce sexual desire by physically distracting you, its influence on the sex drive is more subtle. Cortisol, a hormone that acts like the body’s built-in warning system, is released in response to stress. Cortisol not only promotes blood vessel constriction, which contributes to ED, but it can also cause testosterone levels to plummet.

Stress has also been related to insomnia and other sleep disorders, which can lead to tiredness and a lack of desire for sex. Solutions for low libido in men may require medications if the stress is linked to an anxiety condition. However, some anti-anxiety medicines (SSRIs) might cause your libido to drop even further.

4. Alcohol consumption

Heavy alcohol use, defined as more than 14 mixed drinks in a week, has also been related to lower testosterone levels. Excessive quantities of alcohol might diminish your desire to have sex over time. Men who frequently consume three or more alcoholic beverages should consider cutting back, according to the Cleveland Clinic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average adult male should consume two or fewer alcoholic beverages per day; any more than that can result in long-term health problems.

5. Snoring

Another reason you don’t want to acquire it in the bedroom maybe your snoring. Snoring is a sign of sleep apnea, which has been related to decreased testosterone levels. According to research published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, the hormone rises while you sleep and drops if you’re having trouble sleeping. Furthermore, they discovered that 70% of the 401 males who were evaluated for sleep apnea also had erectile dysfunction. When they did have sex, they also battled with sexual desire and general enjoyment.

Low sex drive in men can be caused by a number of factors, including physical, emotional, and psychological factors. Avoid blaming yourself or your spouse if your libido is harming your relationship. Instead, talk to your spouse about how you’re feeling in an open and honest way. The treatment of low libido is frequently dependent on the treatment of the underlying problem. If you have low libido due to a medical issue, you may need to change medicines. If your low libido is due to psychological factors, you may need to seek relationship therapy from a therapist. You may also do things on your own to increase your libido.

Consult your doctor if you’re concerned about your decreased libido. There are certain lifestyle adjustments that may help you feel better more frequently. It might even be as simple as altering a drug you’re currently taking. In the meanwhile, try to remember that a lack of sexual desire is not the same as a lack of desire for closeness. Make every attempt to connect emotionally and physically, even if you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction. You may enhance your connection by doing so, as well as build a tighter link.

Also Read: 5 Tips On How To Handle Different Sex Drives In Bed