SEXUAL HEALTH CONCERN

Low Libido

Also called: low libido, no sex drive, reduced desire, lost interest in sex, no interest in sex, dont want sex, gone off sex, low sex drive

Low libido means having less interest in sexual activity than is usual or comfortable for you. Sexual desire naturally varies between people and throughout life.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Hormonal changes, stress, medication and health conditions

TREATED BY

Hormonal treatment, medication and psychosexual therapy

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Sexual desire is influenced by a complex interaction between the brain, hormones, physical health, emotional wellbeing and personal circumstances. There is no single level of sexual desire that is considered “normal”, and libido can naturally increase or decrease at different stages of life. Temporary reductions are particularly common during periods of stress, tiredness, poor sleep, major life changes or relationship difficulties. Anxiety, depression, concerns about body image and previous negative sexual experiences can also influence interest in sexual activity.

Hormonal and physical factors can contribute to reduced libido as well. Changes in oestrogen and testosterone levels can affect sexual desire, particularly around pregnancy, after childbirth and during or after menopause, as well as in some endocrine conditions. Thyroid disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic pain and other long-term health problems may indirectly or directly affect sexual function. Sexual difficulties such as erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness or pain during sex can also reduce desire because sexual activity becomes uncomfortable, difficult or associated with anxiety.

Medication and lifestyle factors are another important consideration. Some antidepressants, blood-pressure medicines, hormonal medications and other prescription treatments can affect sexual desire in some people. Excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drugs, smoking, prolonged fatigue and insufficient sleep may also contribute. In many cases, several factors occur together rather than there being one identifiable cause. Because low libido is highly individual, it is generally considered a concern when the change is persistent, unexplained or causes personal distress rather than simply because sexual desire differs from someone else’s expectations.

How far along is it?

Early

Sexual interest decreases temporarily, often during periods of stress, tiredness, illness or significant lifestyle change. Desire may return as circumstances improve.

Moderate

Reduced sexual desire becomes more consistent or lasts for an extended period. The change may become noticeable compared with the person’s previous level of interest and may begin affecting sexual wellbeing or relationships.

Advanced

Sexual desire remains very low or absent and causes ongoing personal distress or relationship difficulties. At this stage, assessment may help identify physical, hormonal, medication-related or psychological factors.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Reduced sexual desire→Male hormone checkup→Female hormone checkup→

There is usually no need to seek treatment simply because libido is lower than someone else’s or changes temporarily. Professional advice becomes worthwhile when sexual desire has changed significantly from your usual level, remains low for a prolonged period or causes distress or difficulties within your personal life.

Assessment can be particularly useful when low libido develops suddenly or occurs alongside other symptoms such as persistent fatigue, mood changes, erectile difficulties, painful sex, vaginal dryness, menstrual changes or other possible signs of a hormonal or underlying health condition.

If you suspect a prescribed medicine is affecting your libido, speak to the healthcare professional responsible for your treatment rather than stopping the medication yourself.

Quick Questions:

What are the most common causes of low libido?

Common contributors include stress, tiredness, relationship difficulties, anxiety or depression, hormonal changes, certain medications and underlying health conditions. More than one factor may be involved.

Can hormonal changes cause low sex drive?

Yes. Changes involving hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone can influence sexual desire. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause and some endocrine conditions may therefore be associated with changes in libido.

Can stress and anxiety reduce sexual desire?

Yes. Psychological stress, anxiety, low mood and poor sleep can reduce sexual interest. Performance concerns or relationship difficulties can also affect desire and sexual wellbeing.

When should I see a doctor about low libido?

Consider seeking professional advice if the change is persistent, unexplained or causing distress, or if it occurs alongside other physical or psychological symptoms. A medical assessment can help determine whether an underlying condition or medication may be contributing.