Causes of low sex drive (libido) in men

Last Updated on 12/08/2025 by Helal Medical

What is sexual desire? What are the causes of low sex drive in men?

Definition of libido and sex drive, in men

Some men wonder why their sex drive became low! How it became less than before. Surprisingly, many of those complaining of low sexual desire are still young, where it is expected that their sexual performance and desire are at the highest levels.

Sexual desire, by definition, is awareness of, and thinking about sexual matters. Decreased sexual desire means lack of sexual interest, less desire to be involved in sex.
– It is normal to lose desire in sex from time to time, also sexual desire is different in different stages of life, usually young men have stronger desire than the old men.
– But a prolonged low sexual desire leads to anxiety. Furthermore, it also may be an indication of a medical condition.

Changes of low sex drive in men

Libido or sexual desire can change from time to time, it may decrease or increase. In this article , I focus on low libido, but it maybe higher for some reasons including: the age, your hormone levels, and amount of physical activity. If your sex desire begins to interfere with your life, work, or relationships, consider , this a case of higher desire and you need medical help.

Causes of low libido in men

• Hormonal Issues:
  • Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism): Testosterone levels naturally decrease with age, but a significant drop can lower libido.
• Psychological and Emotional Factors:
  • Stress, Anxiety, and Fatigue: High levels of stress hormones (like cortisol) can inhibit testosterone and reduce desire.
  • Depression and Low Self-Esteem: Mental health struggles are a common cause.
  • Past Sexual Trauma: A history of abuse or negative sexual experiences.
• Relationship Issues:
  • Conflict or Lack of Emotional Intimacy: Problems in the relationship can significantly impact desire for a partner.
  • Loss of Intimacy: Neglecting the relationship in favor of work or other commitments.
• Medical Conditions and Medications:
  • Chronic Illnesses: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and chronic heart, kidney, or liver failure.
  • Sleep Disorders: Conditions like obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Medication Side Effects: Certain prescription drugs, particularly antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs) and some blood pressure medications.
  • Substance Use: Excessive alcohol use or drug use.
  • Other Sexual Problems: Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection (Erectile Dysfunction) can sometimes lead to reduced desire and anxiety around sex.

Summary

• Low libido in men is often caused by low testosterone (hormonal imbalance), which can occur naturally with age.
• Psychological factors like stress, depression, anxiety, and general fatigue are significant contributors.
• Chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, obesity) and side effects from certain medications (especially antidepressants) can be culprits.
• Relationship issues (conflict, lack of intimacy) also commonly lead to reduced sexual desire.

Read More:
– https://www.healthline.com/health/low-testosterone/conditions-that-cause-low-libido
– hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/mens-health/decreased-libido
– mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/sexual-health/art-20046698
–  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9122-sexual-dysfunction-in-males
– Healthy Lifestyle for Men: Effective Tips for Wellness

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