Low Libido

A low libido is the term used to refer to when someone is experiencing a low sex drive. This can often be down to a range of causes including physical health, mental health and hormones.

Yes, having low libido is very common and will most likely occur at some stage in most people’s life. Low libido is usually related to stress, tiredness or fatigue and other changes in general wellbeing. While it may not seem like a major issue for everyone, if your libido does not return to normal levels it can begin to cause distress. Having a chronic low libido can be a sign of underlying health issues or an undiagnosed condition. It’s important to have open communication with your partner before seeking medical intervention so that it’s known whether it’s a medical issue or not.

Yes, low libido can be treated. There are natural methods for improving libido including improving relationship dynamics, psychological factors and improving physical health. Alternatively, there are treatment options that can improve libido but would need to be prescribed by a GP or pharmacist.

If you feel you have a low libido, you can speak to one of our pharmacists for free via our ‘ask a pharmacist’ service.

Yes, low libido can play a role in experiencing fertility issues. Having a low libido result in less sexual activity which in turn will reduce the likelihood of falling pregnant. If low libido is linked to lower testosterone levels, then this could lower sperm count.  Psychological factors associated with low libido, like stress and relationship difficulties, can indirectly impact fertility by affecting sexual function and overall well-being.

Yes, having low libido can contribute to the feelings of depression. Having a lack of interest in sexual activity can result in relationship issues, emotional distress and decreased self-esteem, which are all common contributors to depression. Low libido can also be a result of having depression, due to the lack of feeling that depression instils in people. If you feel your low libido is making you depressed or your depression is causing a low libido, then you should speak to your partner, and speak to a medical professional so they can offer you the best advice going forward.

Hormonal imbalances associated with low libido, such as low testosterone or thyroid dysfunction, might impact metabolism and body composition. The emotional impact of low libido, such as stress or self-esteem issues, can contribute to overeating or unhealthy eating habits, further influencing weight gain. Weight gain can be a complex issue and be due to many factors. Addressing low libido alone might not completely fix the increased weight gain you may be experiencing.

During pregnancy libido levels can fluctuate massively due to the changing hormone levels in the body. Sometimes women can find themselves feeling an increase in sex drive, not just a decrease. Having low libido might not be a sign of pregnancy as there can be several factors that are contributing to the sudden downturn in drive. You should consult your GP or pharmacist if you are concerned. Remember to take a pregnancy test if you feel you might be pregnant.

Yes, low libido is known to have a link to genetics. Our genetics can affect hormone receptors, neurotransmitter systems, and sexual response, influencing an individual’s level of sexual desire. It’s important to remember that genetics would only play a small role in causing your libido to be low, so you should consider all other things contributing to it, such as physical health and the psychological factors and relationship dynamics.

Yes, it is common for many women to experience a decline in libido before their period. Sexual desire may be influenced by hormonal changes that take place during the menstrual cycle. Two important hormones, progesterone and oestrogen, decrease in the days before menstruation. Some people may experience mood swings, exhaustion, and a decline in sex interest because of these hormonal changes.

Yes, breastfeeding can decrease your oestrogen and progesterone levels significantly, which in turn can reduce your sex drive. If you are worried or concerned about your libido levels then you should consult your GP, Pharmacist, or midwife so they can advise you with the best guidance for your specific situation.

All medication has side effects, each one of us can respond differently to each one. There are many medications that can impact our libido, including contraceptives, antidepressants, and diuretics. If you feel your medication might be affecting your libido, then you should speak to your GP or pharmacist so they can advise you as to what the best solution.

Low libido can be down to a number of things including physical health and psychological issues such as depression. Here are the common deficiencies that can be linked to low libido:

Vitamin D – Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to decreased libido and hormonal imbalances. 

Zinc– A lack of Zinc can impact testosterone production, affecting sexual desire.

Iron – Anaemia due to iron deficiency can lead to fatigue and decreased sexual interest.

B Vitamins – B vitamins play a role in energy production and overall well-being, affecting libido indirectly.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These are important for hormone production and overall cardiovascular health, which can influence libido.

Magnesium – Magnesium deficiency can affect nerve function and energy levels, potentially impacting sexual desire.

Selenium – Selenium is involved in reproductive health and can affect hormone production.

If you feel that a deficiency is the main reason for your low libido, supplements can help. If the issue persists, then there are medications which can be prescribed to you by your GP or pharmacist.

Yes, birth control can sometime affect our libido. Some people can experience a decreased sex drive when they are on hormonal birth control such as the pill, injections, and IUD. The changes in hormone levels from these contraceptive methods can affect libido. If you are on contraception and are experiencing a low libido, then please speak to your healthcare provider to discuss changes to your contraception or medication that could help.

A low libido is a common side effect of having low testosterone levels in both men and women. Testosterone is the main hormone responsible for maintaining a sex drive. When the levels of the hormone decrease in the body, people often feel fatigued, a lack of energy and depressive emotions.

No, premature ejaculation is not known to be caused by low libido. Climaxing early during sex is usually linked to a high libido, overstimulation, and psychological issues. Through, it is not known what the direct cause of premature ejaculation is as it can vary from person to person. But there are things you can do to limit the chances of experiencing the condition.

Yes, one of the main side effects of low libido in men is erectile dysfunction. This is because the decreased levels of testosterone make it harder to get and maintain an erection. For men, erectile dysfunction can be helped with medication. This can be prescribed to you by your GP or pharmacist, in person or online through pharmacies such as e-Surgery.