What causes low libido?

Could you be experiencing low libido? 

According to Dr Ezekiel Matebula at the Men’s Clinic, about 6 out of 10 men over age 45 have low testosterone, which can be caused by physical and/or psychological issues. “Physical issues that can cause low libido include low testosterone, prescription medicines, too little or too much exercise, and alcohol and drug use. Psychological issues can include depression, stress, and problems in your relationship,” he says.

A women’s sex drive can decrease during menopause, when oestrogen levels decrease and result in vaginal dryness and painful sex, as well as during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, which usually happen as people grow older, reduce sexual desire and have an impact on one’s sex life,” says counselling psychologist Dr Kgomotso Masokoane.  

Dr Solomon, a Johannesburg clinical psychologist says people who are stressed, or who have anxiety or depression, can be affected by an increase in cortisol “which can suppress libido” and that medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) for anxiety and depression can also contribute to lowering one’s libido. “If the couple is experiencing conflict or not communicating effectively, these can inhibit libido and end up in the other partner looking outside of the relationship for satisfaction,” adds Dr Solomon.

Can you improve your libido? 

“Testosterone replacement therapy is one solution to the problem, despite being controversial due to the risks associated with it,” says Dr Matebula; “A GP can also prescribe medication to assist in improving your libido, or to minimise anxiety symptoms.” 

A healthy sex life requires good health and good communication between partners. 

“Eating a healthy diet is essential for maintaining a healthy weight. If one partner is experiencing low libido, my advice would be to avoid pressurising them and enjoy activities such as a massage or other types of foreplay activities so that you do not lose closeness and physicality,” says Dr Solomon. If a couple in a loving relationship cannot repair their intimate life on their own, Solomon recommends sessions with a trained psychologist to help get it back on track. 

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