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Many men will at some point find themselves facing one of life’s greatest adversities—a diminishing sex drive.
It’s not that you don’t love your partner any less, far from it. It’s just that as you age, your body gradually starts to wear down and you become more likely to suffer age-related health problems.
Low libido is one of the most common challenges men have to face as they grow older. Affecting 31 out of 100 men worldwide, or about one-third of the population, sexual dysfunction is a global dilemma is not a new phenomenon, but its impact is certainly known.
If you or a loved one suffer from a diminishing sex drive, fret not. There has been extensive research performed to understand how libido works, and how to potentially reverse it.
There are ways to remedy low libido, although managing it will require consistent effort and clinical supervision to truly show results.
Let’s learn more about low libido and low sex drive in men.
What is Low Libido?
Low libido is categorized as a condition in which a person experiences a decrease in sexual desire.
While it’s normal for men to not want to engage in sexual activity from time to time, a low sexual desire that persists may be a sign of an underlying health condition.
Similarly, it’s also possible for both partners in a relationship to have a mismatch in libido.
Just because your lover is constantly ready to turn up the heat in the bedroom, it doesn’t mean you’re suffering from libido deficiency.
If you feel that your lack of sexual desire is interfering with your relationships, it may be time to go see a doctor for help. But you don’t have to seek treatment right away. There are plenty of home remedies and lifestyle changes you can do to help boost libido levels naturally.
Causes of Low Libido
While aging is one of the most common causes of low libido, other factors can contribute to it as well.
Here are other common conditions that may affect sexual desire:
Medications
Some forms of medication can cause low libido as a side effect.
For example, antidepressants that are part of the medicinal category known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can decrease chemical signals that trigger sexual desire. High blood pressure medications can also cause low libido by decreasing blood flow to the male organs.
If you’re taking medication and have noticed a decrease in your sex drive, speak to your doctor about whether there are any alternative medications available.
Depression
People who are depressed may experience a decrease in sexual desire. This is often because depression can cause people to lose interest in things that they once enjoyed. Add feelings of shame and low self-esteem to the mix, and sex can be the last thing on a depressed man’s mind.
In addition, while antidepressant medication can help resolve feelings of depression, it also has the unintended consequence of decreasing one’s libido.
Obesity
People who are obese tend to develop many health issues, including low libido. This is because obesity is a gateway to many other health problems. These include:
- Diabetes
- Heart disorders
- High blood pressure
- Depression
These conditions not only cause emotional and physical health problems, but they also aggravate one’s sexual health, as they are all intertwined.
Diabetes
Men who suffer from diabetes face an increased risk of developing sexual disorders like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and a loss of interest in sex.
In a patient with diabetes, blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. This can result in many sexual disorders, all of which impair a man’s ability to have sex.
Relationship Problems
Low libido can be related to relationship problems. If one partner has a low sex drive, it can create tension and frustration in the relationship. This is particularly true if the partner with the higher sex drive feels rejected or neglected.
It’s important to talk openly about any sexual difficulties you’re experiencing and to work together to find a solution that works for both of you. Relationships counseling may be an option to consider.
Stress and Insomnia
If you’re constantly stressed or can’t sleep, it’s likely to take a toll on your libido.
One study found that men with obstructive sleep apnea also have low testosterone levels.
Aside from low testosterone, stress may also lower libido by ramping up the production of the hormone cortisol. Too much cortisol can interfere with the production of testosterone and other hormones needed for a healthy sex drive.
Treatment for Low Libido
To effectively treat low libido, it’s best to tackle the root condition that’s affecting your sexual desire.
For example, if your libido stems from obesity and a poor diet, you’ll need to start watching what you eat, substitute sugar and cholesterol for healthier alternatives, and eat smaller portions.
If your libido stems from a stressful lifestyle, you may want to consider undergoing a stress management program to deal with your situation.
Romance in the relationship has gone dry? Have an open and honest conversation about it with your partner. Consider talking to a sexual health specialist or couples’ therapist for some actionable bits of guidance catered to your unique dynamic.
If you sleep less than 8 hours every night, you’ll have to fix your sleep schedule and make time to get at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night, on both weekdays and weekends.
In many cases, medical treatment plans can boost your libido levels too. Get in touch with a medical professional about low libido for a personalized consultation of your sexual health issues for evaluation of a proper treatment plan that targets the root causes of dysfunction.
Consult a Men’s Clinic for Medical Guidance to Increase Low Sex Drive
Low libido can be tough to deal with, especially if it’s affecting the quality of your relationship.
Fortunately, it is possible to overcome it and reclaim a healthy sex life. Some clinical remedies that doctors may recommend based on your unique needs include:
- Testosterone therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Oral prescriptions
- Home remedies
If you’re looking to improve your sexual function, testosterone replacement therapy is a solution that has helped thousands of men improve their libido levels.
We’re here to help. Contact a doctor at Preferred Men’s Medical Center today to schedule a consultation for conditions impacting male health. Our concierge approach positions your unique case at the centerpoint of our focus. We don’t just give you a pill for ED and send you on your way. We treat the underlying issues that led to conditions such as Erectile Dysfunction, Low Testosterone, and more. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.