What is decreased libido?
Decreased libido, or low sex drive, refers to a decrease in desire for sexual activity. Both men and women can experience low libido at some point. There are many potential causes including:
- Hormonal changes - Fluctuations in testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone can lead to decreased libido. Menopause in women, andropause in men, postpregnancy changes, and thyroid disorders can impact hormones.
- Medical conditions - Chronic illness like diabetes, cancer, and arthritis may decrease sex drive. Also, medications used to treat these and other medical conditions can inhibit desire.
- Psychological issues - Stress, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and poor body image may dampen arousal and interest in sex. Relationship problems can also contribute.
- Lifestyle factors - Factors like lack of sleep, alcohol abuse, and smoking can reduce libido.
Low libido often creates distress in romantic relationships. It can lead to tension, less sex, and reduced intimacy between partners. Communication with your partner is important for managing and understanding changes in desire.
If you're struggling with decreased arousal or sex drive, know that you're not alone. The expert physicians at Vital Hormones Clinic provide comprehensive hormone testing and replacement therapies to help patients address hormonal imbalances contributing to libido changes. Their individualized treatment plans and medically-supervised programs aim to improve quality of life and restore healthy libido. Contact them today for a consultation!
Treatment options for decreased libido depend on the underlying cause:
- Hormone therapy - Testosterone replacement for men and DHEA supplements for women can increase sex drive if hormones are unbalanced.
- Sex therapy counseling - Sex therapists help couples address psychological barriers to intimacy and give strategies to boost arousal.
- Medications - Your doctor may adjust dosages or prescribe different medications if your current prescriptions lower libido.
- Herbal supplements - Some supplements like maca root, ginseng, and Tribulus terrestris have properties that may enhance sexual desire.
- Lifestyle changes - Getting adequate sleep, reducing alcohol intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels can help increase interest in sex. Vaginal lubricants can also make sex more pleasurable.
The path to improving libido requires determining the root cause unique to your situation. Don't hesitate to confide in your healthcare provider regarding low sex drive - they can provide customized solutions to help you regain satisfaction in the bedroom. Remember, decreased desire is treatable with professional support.