Low Libido

What is Low Libido?

Low libido is essentially a reduced interest in sexual activity. While libido levels vary through life, low libido for a long period may be a cause of concern. Talk to your doctor if you think this might be an issue for you because sometimes diet or counselling may be all you need to sort out this condition. Leading a healthy lifestyle with adequate nutrition and exercise will also help.

Causes of Low Libido in men

Low testosterone levels.
Medications such as beta-blockers for blood pressure, chemotherapy for cancer, and anabolic steroids
Stress or depression
Chronic illnesses such as pain, cancer, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart failure
Sleep apnea
Aging (testosterone levels decrease as you get older)
Too little or too much exercise
Alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse

Causes of Low Libido in women

Sexual problems such as pain during sex
Medical diseases such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure
Medications such as antidepressants
Fatigue from the exhaustion of child or parent care
Hormone changes such as the drop in estrogen levels during the transition to menopause or during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Psychological causes such as anxiety or depression and stress