Loss Libido In Men

Low level of testosterone

Testosterone is the male sex hormone. The level of testosterone is an essential determinant of libido. With age, testosterone levels generally decrease, and so does libido, but sometimes, they may also fall in younger men. A decrease in testosterone levels below 300 ng/dl can result in a severe drop in male libido.

Testosterone replacement therapy may correct the testosterone level, but it is associated with some side effects.

Depression

The feeling of sadness which does not go away with time and is disproportionate to the stressful event is called depression. Depression may result in loss of libido in addition to other effects such as feelings of hopelessness and extreme prolonged sadness.

If you feel you are depressed, you must see your family doctor or a psychiatrist. He will prescribe you medications or advise you on some therapies.

Depression, anxiety, and stress are significant causes of loss of libido

Stress, anxiety, and chronic fatigue

If you are persistently stressed, anxious, or have chronic fatigue syndrome, you will experience a loss of libido. It would be best to talk to your doctor, who may suggest some lifestyle changes or prescribe some medications, psychotherapies, or home remedies that may also help.

Chronic illness

Any long-term medical illness can lower your libido. Decreased sex drive can be due to the lack of psychological and physical resources in your body or due to side effects of medication. The systemic heart, kidney, or liver disease will lower your libido. Likewise, uncontrolled diabetes, hypothyroidism, or cancer can adversely affect your libido. You must discuss with your doctor if you think that some chronic medical condition is affecting your sex drive.

Medications

Many medicines, including those for depression, high blood pressure, seizures, enlarged prostate, or prostate cancer, may reduce your libido. Your doctor will tell you about the possible side effects if you feel that some alternative has been prescribed.

Relationship issues

One of the most important reasons for lowered libido is a strained and unhappy relationship. Worries and stress in a relationship can severely affect your desire to engage in a sexual act. Becoming too familiar with your sex partner with whom you have long-term relationships may cause a loss of sexual desire. Likewise, poor communication, mistrust, or unresolved conflict will result similarly.

Be honest with your partner and have an open discussion about the problem. Attending counseling may also help.

Poor communication, mistrust, or unresolved conflict can cause reduced libido.

Tips to increase libido

Improve the quality of the relationship.

Have a discussion with your partner about any problem. Try to be honest with each other. It would help if you spare time to have quality moments together. Kissing, caressing, touching, and massaging each other before intercourse can also kindle your sexual desire.

Stay relaxed

Managing your stress and anxiety is essential to maintain an optimum level of libido. Job-related strain can also exhaust your energy reserves and reduce your desire. Plan your job systematically so that you can cope with stress. You may also try relaxation techniques to keep stress away. Meditation or yoga will also keep you relaxed.

Have a healthy, balanced diet.

Nutritious food rich in green leafy vegetables, fruits, and proteins will refresh your body and mind. It will also boost your blood circulation and thus improve sexual performance. However, you must restrict sugar and salt in your diet.

Exercise regularly

Exercise can help you to deal with obesity. Maintaining weight, in turn, will build a positive body image, hence boosting your self-confidence and libido.

Abstain from drinking and quit smoking.

If you face drinking and/or smoking issues, try to get professional help. Get support from friends and family or support groups.

Get optimum and sound sleep.

Sleep rejuvenates your body and mind. It keeps stress away and makes you relaxed. Sleep by refilling your energy resources maintains an optimum sex drive.

Talk to your doctor

Your doctor will help you to identify any medical condition which may be reducing your sex drive. He may prescribe some medications.