7 Causes of Low Libido in Men

A lack of sexual appetite, in both men and women, is normal, as libido levels can vary depending on various factors, as we will see further on. However, a lack of sexual desire in men over long periods can be a source of concern, as it could indicate health problems.

The causes of low sexual appetite in men can be of a physiological or psychological origin. Discover the 7 most common causes of low libido in men.

What is libido ?

Libido is, in a way, a person’s degree of sexual drive and desire to have sexual relations. The more a person has sexual desires or thoughts, the higher their libido level. Conversely, if a man has no sexual desire or needs, then he has a low libido. Solving libido problems is very important, as it can affect your relationship with your partner, especially if they have unmet needs.

Depression

Depression can change the lives of those who suffer from it. As a result, a depressed person may experience a partial or complete lack of desire. This is confirmed by studies such as the one published in 2013 by The Journal of Sexual Medicine. In their study, the authors were able to verify that depression is a factor associated with a lack of sexual interest.

Low libido can be linked to the consequences of certain antidepressants. It is important that you talk to your doctor if you are under pharmacological treatment to change the medication or review the dosage. Keep in mind that stopping the treatment can lead to a severe relapse or a greater degree of depression.

Low testosterone levels

Testosterone is a male hormone that is also present in women, but in smaller quantities. In men, it is produced primarily in the testicles and is responsible for muscle building, bone mass, and sperm production. Therefore, it influences sexual desire.

A drastic drop in this hormone can influence the decrease in libido. Natural solutions or suitable supplements can increase the testosterone level.

Chronic illnesses

When you suffer from a chronic illness, sex is probably not a priority for many people. Certain diseases can affect many organic processes, including the dysfunction of the endocrine system, responsible for the secretion of hormones such as testosterone.

This is because the body focuses on fighting the disease. Therefore, it is important that you talk to your partner about the causes of your lack of sexual desire to avoid problems in your relationship.

Aging

As you age, testosterone levels decrease after the age of 30, which can lead to a decrease in libido. The highest level of libido in men occurs during adolescence, then it gradually decreases.

Between the ages of 60 and 65, it is normal to notice a difference in libido, and it becomes more difficult to have orgasms, ejaculate, or become excited. Although there are medications that can help you.

But this problem is more worrying when it concerns young men in the prime of their lives who have little sexual desire over a long period.

Alcohol and drugs

Although having a few drinks during an evening may make you feel a little more confident in bed, it can also have unpleasant side effects such as erection problems or difficulty having orgasms. Men may also have trouble reaching orgasm or end up ejaculating too quickly. Alcohol and drug abuse weakens the nervous system, leading to excessive fatigue, decreased testosterone levels, and seriously affecting your libido levels.

Stress

Stress can negatively affect physical and psychological functions, particularly concerning sexual desire and performance in bed. The stressed person physically manifests their stress, and the symptoms manifest as fatigue, insomnia, lack of energy, digestive problems, aches and pains, and muscle tension.

Being under stress for a long period can affect the production of testosterone, leading to a decrease in libido, and can even cause erectile dysfunction or impotence.

Medications

There are certain medications that can lower testosterone levels and cause poor libido. These can include :

• Antipsychotics
• Antidepressants
• Benzodiazepines
• Hair loss medications
• Beta blockers
• Medications containing estrogen

All of these can cause erection or ejaculation problems. If you think these medications have had such effects, consult your doctor about possible alternatives.

What to do if I have a low libido ?

There are many treatments for low libido, but before consulting your doctor, start by making significant changes to your habits. Also, consider taking steps to increase your libido:

Get enough sleep: Good sleep reduces your stress, and consequently, your libido will not be affected.

Lead a more active life: Sedentary lifestyle not only affects obesity but also sexual health. It is important to be more active every day.

Exercise: Doing sports like weight training increases your testosterone and consequently, your libido.

Eat healthy: Like exercise, diet is very important to stimulate your sexual desire; moreover, you have foods that can increase your libido.

Learn to better manage emotional stress through various relaxation techniques, exercises, and hobbies.

Conclusion

Lifestyle and dietary changes are excellent ways to naturally boost your libido. However, you can further boost your sex life by quitting smoking or consuming alcohol. Communication with your partner is very important to try to find solutions. You can share your feelings, frustrations, or needs. Break the routine, do something unusual, and go out. Have dinner together, book a hotel room, or have a couple’s massage. All of this can help you overcome this problem.