Experiences with
Loss of libidoCauses of a low sex drive
Some of the main causes of a low sex drive include:
- relationship problems
- stress, anxiety or depression
- sexual problems like erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness
- pregnancy and having a baby – your hormone levels change when you're pregnant, and looking after a baby can be stressful and tiring
- lower hormone levels as you get older, particularly during the menopause
- taking certain medicines, such as medicine for high blood pressure or antidepressants
- using hormonal contraception like the pill, patch or implant
- drinking too much alcohol
Some long-term conditions can also affect your sex drive, such as heart disease, diabetes, an underactive thyroid or cancer.
- you're worried about your low sex drive
- you're taking a medicine or using hormonal contraception and you think it may be affecting your sex drive
- your sex drive does not return to normal after pregnancy
Treatments for a low sex drive
Treatment for a low sex drive depends on what's causing it.
A GP can advise you about help you can get and any treatments that might improve your sex drive.
CausesMedical treatmentsCommon causes of a low sex drive include relationship problems, sexual problems and stress, anxiety or depression.
Treatment for a low sex drive depends on the cause. Counselling may help with relationship problems and medicines can help some sexual problems.
Related links
Low sex drive (loss of libido)
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