Low libido is a common medical condition experienced by both genders. It is characterized by disinterest in sex, little to no sexual thoughts, lack of pleasurable sensation when the genitals are stimulated, etc.
While low libido is common in both genders, it has greater effects on men than women. Men who experience low libido often find it hard to please their partners, and this can take a toll on their relationship or marriage. Below we have explained some of the reasons why men experience libido, including its effects.
Effects of Low Libido
Low sex drive is often a hot topic in relationship talk shows and platforms. Considering the fuss surrounding this topic, one may begin to wonder if low sex drive comes with any effects, and if yes, what are they?
Of course, like other sexual dysfunction, low libido comes with some effects. If this condition persists, it may cause lots of distress to a couple. Low libido can make men lose interest in sex, making them take less part in sexual activities. Should this condition persist, there might be issues in the man’s marriage or relationship.
1. Low Testosterone
If you are experiencing dwindling libido or sex drive, it may result from low testosterone levels. Testosterone is a sex hormone responsible for facial hair, body muscles, deeper voice, etc. This important hormone also helps maintain libido and sperm production.
Testosterone levels often fluctuate. It rises during adolescence and early adulthood and falls as you get older. If your testosterone falls to a particular level, you may have low testosterone—a condition common in older men and experienced by younger men as well.
Contrary to what you may have heard, low testosterone doesn't cause erectile dysfunction. However, it can affect sex drive in many ways. Men who have low testosterone experience a drop in their sex drive, while others become disinterested in sex completely. If you have low testosterone, you may want to consider testosterone replacement therapy and testosterone booster supplement like Nugenix which is a widely known natural testosterone booster. It is the best out of hundreds of testosterone boosters that we reviewed. There are lots of personalized TRT options to select from, depending on your needs.
2. Side Effects of Some Medications
Medications are widely known for their therapeutic effects on our bodies. When ill, we take medications to get well. But did you know that some medications come with side effects that cause low libido in men? Common examples of these medications are:
- Antidepressants
- Statins
- Beta-blockers
- Antipsychotics
- Benzodiazepines
- Anticonvulsants
Over-the-counter drugs are also likely culprits. These drugs can affect your libido if taken persistently. Doing away with these drugs or changing them may reverse the condition, although this is often hard with some severe medications. In such a case, you can consider changing your dosage. Ensure you contact your doctor before making any serious moves.
3. Lifestyle Habits
Certain lifestyle factors or habits are responsible for low libido in men. Men who engage in detrimental habits can reverse the condition by changing or stopping them. Common lifestyle habits that contribute to low sex drive are:
Excessive alcohol and drug use: Too much drinking can reduce your testosterone levels
Over and under-exercising: Engaging in excessive and rigorous exercise can lead to low libido. The same with little exercises.
Smoking: Of course, smoking is a dangerous habit that comes with many life-threatening health conditions. Excessive smoking can make a man lose interest in sex.
Obesity: Adding extra weight can hinder metabolism and hormone function. The results? A drop in total and free testosterone. On the other hand, exercise and weight loss help improve mood. They also boost energy levels and sexual function.
While the harmful effects of these lifestyle habits are glaring, it's not wise to associate low libido with one lifestyle factor without first contacting your doctor.
4. Serious Illness
Chronic illnesses may come with pain and fatigue that affect your sex drive. Common chronic illnesses that may affect your libido are:
- Cancer
- Kidney failure
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Arthritis
In addition to affecting your sex drive, chronic illness can put you at risk of depression. And as you probably know, depression is another leading cause of low libido. Also, medications used to treat chronic conditions may directly affect male sex drive. As a result, it may be difficult to determine the cause of low libido and find a lasting solution.
5. Depression
It is normal for depression to contribute to low libido. As a chronic mental health disorder, depression isn't only associated with low libido, but it may also be the consequence, making a difficult situation worse. Plus, depression is often treated with an antidepressant, a drug associated with low libido.
If you are taking an antidepressant and are experiencing low libido, ensure you contact your doctor for advice. Alternatively, you can consider ditching antidepressants for a different medication like Wellburn (bupropion) or Remeron.
Conclusion
Low sex drive can cause many troubles in your relationship or marriage if not well handled. It is advised that individuals with low libido let their partners understand what they are going through rather than leave them in the dark. Enlightening your partner on your situation will ensure that you tackle the issue as one. Things become easier that way.