What Causes Low Male Libido? How to Treat Decreased Libido?

What Causes Low Male Libido? How to Treat Decreased Libido?

Generally speaking, “libido” is a person’s sex drive or desire for sexual activity. Nowadays most of us show interest in this topic. Sexual desire is an element of a balanced person’s lifestyle and similar to every other health theme, it is worthy of certain emphasis.

But not every man can boast a strong libido. It is an unpleasant but not unsolvable problem. There are a lot of products made of natural herbs, vitamins and minerals, which are created specially to fix this issue. Male enhancement products for enhancing libido are not an exception.

It is important to know the causes of decreased libido. We will find out how to treat low libido in men and prevent this and other issues.

Causes of Decreased Libido in Men

There are several common factors that affect sex drive in men, but the main ones are hormone imbalance, stress and fatigue. If your sex drive is low you may find it difficult to maintain an intimate relationship with your partner.

The most obvious factor for low sex drive in men is the lack of hormones in the body. The main hormone that affects libido in men is testosterone, this is produced by the testicles and by the adrenals. As men age the levels of testosterone decline. This hormone need to be present in certain levels to provide the energy needed to maintain a healthy sexual life.

So, what are the causes of decreased libido and levels of testosterone? They can be classified into two general categories, those of psychological causes and physical ones.

Source: Causes of low testosterone

Psychological causes of decreased libido

The following psychological causes of decreased libido are known to affect libido most of all: partner estrangement, conflicting views, lack of expressing sexual desires and preferences.

Some people with low libido also suffer from anxiety, stress, and sadness, which can make them feel very down and emotionally disconnected. People who are very tired and fatigued also tend to have low libido.

Source: What Psychological Issues Cause Low Libido?

One should be aware of such factors as low self-esteem, lack of control, low level of body awareness, and fear of having intimate contact with others.

Physical causes of decreased libido

Among physical causes should be mentioned such issues as sexual dysfunctions, infertility, history of sexual or physical abuse, genital surgery, diseases, and sexual or physical trauma.

An individual’s previous medical history is also a factor in low libido.

Common Medical Conditions That Affect Male Libido

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause significant changes in sexual health and reduce male libido. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves that control sexual response. This damage can lead to erectile dysfunction and lower sexual desire. Men with diabetes often experience fatigue and hormonal imbalances, which further decrease libido. Managing blood sugar levels and seeking medical advice can help reduce these effects.

Heart Disease

Heart disease affects blood flow, which is essential for sexual arousal and performance. Reduced blood circulation can limit the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. Many heart medications also have side effects that lower libido. Additionally, heart disease may cause fatigue and depression, which contribute to decreased sexual desire. Improving heart health through lifestyle changes and treatment can help restore libido.

Hormonal Imbalances

Low testosterone levels are a common hormonal cause of reduced male libido. Testosterone controls sexual desire, energy levels, and mood. Other hormonal issues, such as thyroid problems or elevated prolactin levels, can also impact libido. Hormone imbalances may occur naturally with age or due to medical conditions. Hormone testing and treatment are important steps to address these imbalances.

Depression and Mental Health Disorders

Depression frequently leads to a loss of interest in sex and other activities. Mental health disorders affect brain chemicals that regulate mood and desire. Antidepressant medications can also lower libido as a side effect. Treating depression through therapy, medication adjustment, or lifestyle changes may improve sexual desire.

Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Obesity and metabolic syndrome reduce testosterone and increase inflammation, which lowers libido. Excess weight affects blood flow and hormone balance. It also raises the risk of diabetes and heart disease, which further impact sexual health. Weight loss through diet and exercise can boost libido and overall health.

Chronic Illnesses

Chronic illnesses such as kidney disease, liver disease, and multiple sclerosis can reduce sexual desire. These conditions cause fatigue, pain, and hormonal disruptions. They may also require medications that affect libido. Managing these illnesses with proper care can help improve sexual function.

Common medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, hormonal imbalances, depression, obesity, and chronic illnesses can lower male libido by affecting blood flow, hormones, and mental health. Proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions are essential steps toward restoring sexual desire.

Role of Hormones in Male Sexual Desire

Importance of Testosterone

Testosterone is the primary hormone responsible for male sexual desire. It influences libido by affecting the brain, muscles, and sexual organs. Low testosterone levels can lead to a noticeable decrease in sexual interest and performance. Testosterone production naturally declines with age, but some men experience a sharper drop due to medical conditions or lifestyle factors. Monitoring testosterone levels through blood tests helps identify if low hormone levels are a cause of decreased libido.

Other Hormones Affecting Libido

Besides testosterone, several other hormones play a role in male sexual desire. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) regulate testosterone production and sperm development. Thyroid hormones influence metabolism and energy levels, which indirectly affect libido. High levels of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, can reduce testosterone and lower sexual desire. Hormonal imbalances often result from illnesses, medications, or endocrine disorders.

Hormonal Changes with Age

As men age, hormone levels shift, leading to changes in libido and sexual function. Testosterone typically peaks during early adulthood and gradually declines after age 30. This decline can cause reduced energy, mood changes, and lower sexual desire. Some men experience “andropause,” a condition similar to menopause in women, where testosterone drops significantly. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered for men with clinically low testosterone to improve libido and overall well-being.

Hormonal Testing and Diagnosis

Diagnosing hormonal causes of low libido requires specific laboratory tests. Blood tests usually measure total and free testosterone, LH, FSH, prolactin, and thyroid hormones. Testing is best done in the morning when testosterone levels are highest. Proper diagnosis helps doctors decide if hormone replacement or other treatments are needed. It also rules out other conditions that might affect hormone balance.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy can help restore libido in men with low testosterone. Treatment options include testosterone injections, gels, patches, or pellets. HRT can improve sexual desire, energy, mood, and muscle mass. However, therapy requires medical supervision due to potential side effects and risks, such as prostate issues or cardiovascular problems. Not all men with low libido benefit from HRT, so individual assessment is essential.

Hormones, especially testosterone, are vital for male sexual desire. Changes in hormone levels, caused by aging during andropause, or medical conditions, can reduce libido. Proper hormone testing and treatment help address these issues and improve sexual health.

Read more: How to Boost Male Libido During Andropause?

Effects of Age on Male Libido

Natural Decline of Testosterone

Testosterone levels naturally decline as men age, affecting libido. After age 30, testosterone typically decreases by about 1% each year. This decline leads to lower sexual desire, reduced energy, and changes in mood. While some men experience only mild symptoms, others may notice a significant drop in libido. Age-related testosterone decline is a common factor in decreased male sexual interest.

Changes in Sexual Response

Aging affects not only desire but also the body’s physical response to sexual activity. Blood flow to the penis may decrease, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection. Nerve sensitivity can lessen, and the time needed to reach orgasm may increase. These physical changes can impact confidence and reduce sexual frequency. However, many men continue to enjoy healthy sex lives with age.

Health Conditions Linked to Aging

Older men are more likely to develop health problems that reduce libido. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and arthritis become more common with age. These illnesses affect blood flow, hormone levels, and energy, all of which influence sexual desire. Medications for these conditions may also have side effects that lower libido.

Psychological Factors in Older Men

Mental health and emotional well-being play a significant role in libido as men age. Stress from life changes, retirement, or loss of loved ones can affect sexual desire. Anxiety about sexual performance or body image may also increase. Addressing psychological factors with counseling or therapy can help improve libido in older men.

Managing Age-Related Libido Changes

Many lifestyle adjustments can help counteract the effects of aging on libido. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress reduction, and good sleep habits support hormone balance and sexual function. Open communication with partners about changes in desire and performance promotes intimacy. Medical treatments such as hormone replacement therapy may be an option for some men under doctor supervision.

Male libido naturally declines with age due to falling testosterone, physical changes, health conditions, and psychological factors. Despite these changes, many men maintain satisfying sexual lives by managing health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being.

Read more: How Can an Older Man Increase His Libido?

Prevention of Decreased Libido in Men

Be active to boost libido

You can naturally enhance your decreased libido by being physically active. If you start exercising regularly, take an aerobic class or any other class that will make you happier and stronger, you will notice the improvement in your sexual activity and desire.

You may find that physical activity and male enhancement products lead to great results.

Be happy to boost libido

The fact is that regular exercise does not only increase life force or body fitness. It can also positively influence your mood as physical activity releases endorphins, so-called “hormones of happiness”.

Be an optimist in any situation. It will help you not only with your mood, but it is really necessary for your good mental condition. Mind it. In the same way your ability to cope with stress has innumerable advantages to your health making you more sexually active.

Eat well to boost libido

Healthy and balanced diet is another key to physical health, since insufficient supply of certain nutrients affects the normal functioning of body, levels of stress, hormones and energy. Consider the usefulness of your daily diet adding diverse foods, such as whole foods, fiber and essential fats.

Can Male Libido Be Restored?

Yes, male libido can be restored in many cases. As we mentioned before, low libido or sexual desire can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical and psychological conditions, medications, lifestyle factors, and relationship issues.

If low libido is caused by an underlying medical condition such as low testosterone levels, erectile dysfunction, or other health problems, addressing the underlying condition may help restore libido. Treatment options may include medication, hormone replacement therapy, or lifestyle changes.

Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression can also contribute to low libido. In these cases, therapy or counseling may be helpful in addressing the underlying issues and restoring sexual desire.

In addition to medical and psychological interventions, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, reducing stress, and improving communication in relationships can also help improve libido.

Source: 7 Healthy Habits to Improve Your Sex Life

It is important to note that restoring libido may take time and may involve trying different treatments or approaches to find what works best for each individual. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of low libido and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Natural Ways to Boost Male Libido

Regular Physical Activity

Exercise plays a key role in improving male libido naturally. Physical activity increases blood flow, boosts testosterone levels, and reduces stress. Activities like weightlifting, running, and swimming help enhance energy and stamina. Exercise also improves mood by releasing endorphins, which can increase sexual desire. A consistent workout routine supports overall health and can positively affect libido.

Balanced and Nutritious Diet

Eating a healthy diet supports hormone balance and sexual health. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants promote better blood circulation and hormone production. Avoiding processed foods, excess sugar, and unhealthy fats helps maintain energy levels and weight. A diet focused on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports natural libido enhancement.

Stress Management

Chronic stress reduces libido by increasing cortisol levels, which lower testosterone. Managing stress is important for restoring sexual desire. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and mindfulness help calm the mind and body. Taking time for hobbies and social activities also reduces stress. Lower stress levels improve mood and create a better environment for sexual interest.

Quality Sleep

Getting enough restorative sleep is essential for maintaining healthy libido. Poor sleep disrupts hormone production, including testosterone, and causes fatigue. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular schedule and avoiding screens before bed, helps improve sleep quality. Better sleep supports energy, mood, and sexual desire.

Herbal Supplements

Certain natural supplements may help improve male libido. Herbs like ginseng, maca root, tribulus terrestris, and horny goat weed are traditionally used to support sexual health. These supplements can increase energy, reduce fatigue, and improve blood flow. While many men report benefits, scientific evidence varies. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Avoiding Alcohol and Smoking

Excessive alcohol and smoking negatively affect sexual desire and performance. Alcohol can lower testosterone and impair blood flow. Smoking damages blood vessels, reducing circulation to sexual organs. Cutting back or quitting these habits improves overall health and can restore libido over time.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Excess body fat can disrupt hormone balance and lower libido. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease, which also reduce sexual desire. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise supports hormone production and blood flow, enhancing sexual health naturally.

Natural ways to boost male libido include regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress reduction, quality sleep, herbal supplements, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excess alcohol. These lifestyle changes support hormone balance, energy, and blood flow to improve sexual desire safely and effectively.

See also: An Overview of the Best Male Enhancement Options

Treatment of Low Libido in Men

Male libido medications

Male enhancement medications attracted public attention long before. This passion for the medication is explicable. The benefits it brought to the male population of the planet could not be compared with anything of the kind. It was like a wonder for men.

The medical preparation quickly acquired its popularity. But men tried other products as well to compare the results they bring.

Many continue to apply to male enhancement medications because the trademarks are well-known for them and many used it for decades.

There can be reasons why some men refuse from taking male enhancement drugs. These reasons are probably financial or personal ones. Are there any alternatives to the male enhancement medications? Some people consider that a selection of similar products should be looked for instead.

But the category can include a bigger variety of options that are presented on the market nowadays. Having been sold online, it is so convenient to acquire them. This is quite affordable and does not take long time to order them.

Natural male libido enhancers

Although most of the male libido medications available today are prescription medications, users should check out the actual safety and give preference to natural male libido enhancers.

Based on several studies it can be guessed that the more all-natural ingredients are in a specific male libido enhancer, the more safe and effective it becomes.

Source: Male libido enhancers

The medical group even agreed that herbal ingredients do prove to work in producing stronger and firmer erection. Natural herbs, like Hawthorn and Catuaba even provide benefits to other organs, aside from the male organ.

For instance, Hawthorn berry can help lower cholesterol level and blood pressure; the Catuaba extract is known to have antiviral features that complement its function as a male libido enhancer.

Source: 9 Impressive Health Benefits of Hawthorn Berry

Natural Treatment of Decreased Male Libido

Members of the medical industry used to be reluctant to mention all-natural male libido enhancers, but today, many doctors and medical experts are sending their approvals and endorsements of natural options.

This is mainly because of the need for a quick and safe solution to male libido concerns. The healing effect or cure produced by herbal ingredients are being widely confirmed in modern medicine and many medical professionals have integrated the natural healing in their practice.