Men experiencing low libido may be going through challenging times, which reduce sexual desire, or they might have physiological issues or be on certain medications that interfere with the pursuit of pleasure and sexual satisfaction. Learn more.
Surely, you have experienced low libido at some point. A healthy libido is associated with a quality sexual life, while its absence can compromise overall quality of life. Fluctuations are normal.
Libido reflects human sexuality. It encompasses those motivations and interests towards thoughts, fantasies, and impulses, which drive attitudes towards sexual activity.
It also contributes to pleasure. When libido is high, it tends to amplify sensations at the moment, making the relationship more satisfying.
For individuals in a relationship, when libido is healthy, the sexual needs of both partners are likely being met, which benefits the couple.
However, it’s not always like this.
The loss of libido is more common than imagined, and can occur for various reasons, whether they are physical, psychological, or external, bringing some drawbacks to your life. The good news is that it is possible to reverse the lack of sexual desire.
Signs of Low Libido
The absence of sexual desire can manifest in various ways. Some examples include:
- Reduction or absence of interest in sexual relations
- Reduction or absence of erotic thoughts and sexual fantasies
- Difficulty in getting excited or responding to sexual stimuli – in other words, to get an erection
- Avoiding physical contact or sexual occasions, like a romantic dinner
- Changes in sexual performance, which can usually be noticed by the partner
- Frustration, guilt, and anxiety regarding sex
- Decrease in the frequency of sexual activity
It’s worth remembering that libido can vary from person to person and over time, tending to decrease as age progresses. Specific life moments can also cause a lack of libido under certain circumstances.
Causes of Libido Loss
The decrease in sexual desire is influenced by a series of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, relationship with the partner, among others. Learn more about the impacts of each of them.
Hormonal Imbalances
Low levels of testosterone can result in low or no libido. The hormone is directly linked to sexuality, but due to factors such as aging, thyroid disorders, or side effects of medications, it can become unbalanced.
Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases in general, such as diabetes, heart diseases, hypertension, obesity, can directly or indirectly affect libido.
Some of these diseases manifest through pain, extreme fatigue, hormonal changes, and even erectile dysfunction, which can reduce sexual desire. Moreover, the negative feelings they provoke can negatively impact libido.
Stress
Excessive stress, whether due to work, finances, or family responsibilities, depletes physical and emotional energy, leaving men with little disposition for engagement in sexual activities.
Psychological Issues
Symptoms of depression and anxiety can hamper sexual desire. Apathy, lack of pleasure, excessive worries, and restlessness make it difficult to feel libido.
Men who have experienced traumatic sexual experiences may also see a decrease in desire due to challenges in relating intimately with another person.
Side Effects of Medications
Certain medications can interfere with aspects of the body that are essential for libido.
The most notable are antidepressants and antipsychotics, but antihypertensives, for example, can also have side effects like this.
How to Improve Libido
There are several ways to treat the loss of libido and feel more interest in sexual life. Check them out:
Change Your Diet
A balanced diet can provide the necessary nutrients to promote sexual health.
Foods rich in fatty acids, omega-3, antioxidants, and vitamins, such as salmon, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and grains are good sources. Moreover, you can try aphrodisiac foods, like oysters and chocolate.
Hydration is also fundamental. Drinking plenty of water is essential for facilitating blood circulation.
New Lifestyle
Adopting a lifestyle that helps reduce stress and ensures good sleep quality can help increase libido.
For this, it’s important to incorporate daily exercises, practice relaxation techniques, eat mindfully, and establish a pressure-free routine.
Consider Sexual Therapy
Undergoing sexual therapy with a psychologist or sexologist can help address the emotional or psychological difficulties contributing to the loss of libido. With the help of a professional, it is possible to address issues and learn to overcome them.
If the loss of libido is connected to relationship difficulties, couple’s therapy can be beneficial. Here, partners can improve communication and discuss issues that weigh on the lack of libido.
When to See a Doctor?
A man should consider seeking professional help when noticing a significant drop in his libido, which persists over an extended period and negatively impacts his quality of life and relationships.
If the man is experiencing erectile dysfunction or is on any medication, it’s important to anticipate and seek medical advice at the first signs of lack of sexual desire.
