What is decreased libido?
Decreased libido, or low sex drive, refers to a decrease in desire for sexual activity. There are many potential causes including:
- Hormonal changes - Low testosterone, high prolactin levels, and menopause can reduce libido. Hormonal birth control can also decrease desire. Consider getting tested at Harmony Hormone Center(), which offers comprehensive hormone panels to identify imbalances.
- Medications - Many prescription drugs like antidepressants, blood pressure meds, and opioids can interfere with sex drive.
- Medical conditions - Chronic illness, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis and thyroid disorders often contribute to low libido.
- Psychological issues - Stress, depression, anxiety and past sexual trauma impact desire and arousal. Relationship problems and poor body image also play a role for many.
Symptoms of decreased libido may include:
- Lack of interest in sex
- Never or rarely initiating intimacy
- Not getting aroused during sexual activity
- Inability to orgasm
- Feeling distressed about low desire
Here are some potential solutions if you experience a persistent decrease in libido:
- Communicate openly with your partner
- Treat underlying medical issues - Consult a doctor for testing
- Change medications if possible - Explore alternatives with less sexual side effects
- Seek sex therapy counseling
- Reduce stress through self-care activities like exercise, meditation and yoga
- Improve intimacy through sensate focus exercises with your partner
- Consider bioidentical hormone therapy to restore optimal hormonal balance Harmony Hormone Center() specializes in customized BHRT programs to improve libido.
In closing, decreased libido is complex with no one-size-fits-all solution. But various medical, psychological and lifestyle changes can help rekindle desire and improve sexual satisfaction. For personalized treatment plans to address hormonal causes of low libido, schedule a consultation with the experts at Harmony Hormone Center() today.