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So you’re struggling with a low sex drive. It’s not something you feel particularly proud of, and it sure isn’t making your relationship any easier. But what could be causing this issue? And how do you fix it?
There are many potential reasons for a low sex drive. It could be a physical issue, such as a hormone imbalance or medication side effect. It could also be a psychological issue, such as stress or anxiety. Or it could be a combination of many things. If you’re struggling with a low sex drive, it’s essential to talk to a healthcare professional about treatment options like hormone testing and replacement therapy or curbing bad habits like smoking and a junk food diet.
To get you started, here are six potential causes for why your sex drive may have dipped and what you can do about it.
- Mental Health
While there can be physical causes of low libido, the root cause is psychological in many cases. Here are three of the most common psychological factors that can lead to a low sex drive:
- Stress – We all know that stress can wreak havoc on our bodies and minds. But did you know that it can also take a toll on your sex life? When stressed, our bodies release cortisol, the “stress hormone.” Cortisol has been shown to decrease libido in both men and women. So if you’re feeling stressed out, it could affect your sex drive.
- Anxiety – Anxiety is another common psychological issue leading to low libido. Suppose you’re constantly worried about things like your job, your relationship, or your health. In that case, your sexual desire will likely take a hit. Additionally, anxiety can cause erectile dysfunction in men and make it difficult for women to become aroused.
- Depression – Depression is one of the most common psychological disorders, and it can significantly impact sexual desire. If you’re depressed, you may not have the energy or interest in sex. Additionally, depression can cause physical changes that make sex less enjoyable (such as decreased vaginal lubrication in women).
- Hormonal Changes
We all know that hormone levels can greatly impact our mood and energy levels. But did you know that hormone changes can also lead to a low sex drive? Age, stress, and lifestyle choices can all lead to hormone imbalances that can impact sexual desire.
In women, falling estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness and pain during sex. In men, testosterone imbalances can lead to erectile dysfunction and low libido.
If you’re struggling with a low sex drive, hormone imbalance testing can help identify any issues and help your doctor recommend treatment options, such as bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
- Medications
As anyone who’s ever been in a long-term relationship knows, keeping the spark alive can be a challenge. But if you’ve suddenly lost interest in sex, it could be due to a medication you’re taking. Certain drugs used to treat high blood pressure, depression, and even acne can lead to low libido. In fact, one study found that up to 61 percent of men and 41 percent of women who took a specific antidepressant reported experiencing sexual side effects.
If you’re concerned that your medication is affecting your sex drive, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe an alternative drug or lower your dosage. Never stop or reduce your dosage on your own.
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- Tobacco Use
It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health. But did you know regular tobacco use is a common reason for low libido, especially for men?
Tobacco use has been linked to a decrease in testosterone, causing testicular problems. This can lead to many issues, including arousal and difficulty reaching orgasm. But, according to research, the good news is that when you stop smoking, you may regain your libido.
So if you’re struggling with a low sex drive, cutting back on cigarettes or quitting altogether may be just what the doctor ordered.
- Poor Diet
It’s no secret that the food we eat directly impacts our physical health. But did you know that what we eat can also affect our sexual health? Unfortunately, a poor diet is a major contributor to low libido.
Processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol can all take a toll on our sexual health. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and chemicals, leading to weight gain, decreased energy levels, and even erectile dysfunction. Sugary drinks can cause blood sugar spikes, leaving us tired and sluggish. And excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration and diminished sexual sensitivity.
Eating a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining a healthy libido. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are especially important for sexual health. These nutrients help to keep our bodies functioning at optimal levels. They can even increase blood flow to the sexual organs. Some great foods for boosting libido include avocados, dark chocolate, oysters, watermelon, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
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- Lack of Exercise
Lastly, if you’ve noticed a lack of interest in sex lately, exercise could be the key to getting your groove back. That’s right — being active can boost your libido. How?
For starters, regular exercise helps to improve circulation, which is essential for sexual arousal. It also helps increase testosterone levels, the hormone responsible for sexual desire. In addition, exercise releases endorphins, which can improve mood and make sex more enjoyable. Finally, being in shape can make you feel more confident and attractive, two things that can definitely help to get you in the mood.
So if you’re looking to jump-start your sex life, hit the gym — or go for a jog, take a dance class, or anything else that gets you moving. You may find that some exercise is all you need to get things going again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with a low sex drive, know that you’re not alone. Many people deal with this issue for a variety of reasons. If you suspect your libido is suffering due to one of the above causes, contact a qualified healthcare professional who can help get to the root of the problem and assist you in finding a solution. Sometimes, treatment may be as simple as making lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or exercising more frequently. No matter the cause, there is always hope for improving your sexual health and satisfaction.
