By Hakim Hari Kishan Lal Dawakhana Shafakhana, Sexology
Losing interest in sex can be attributed to low libido and it is natural to lose interest in sex from time to time as levels of libido vary throughout life. It is also normal if your interests do not match with that of your partner sometimes. However, it is worthy to note here that low libido can be a cause of concern for some people and could indicate underlying health conditions:
- Lowered levels of testosterone: Though decreasing testosterone is an integral part of the process of aging, a drastic drop may cause significant decrease in libido. Testosterone helps in building the muscles and stimulating production of sperms. So, if there is a sudden drop in this hormone level, it may mean something serious.
- Certain medications: Some medicines can also have adverse effects on the level of sex drive. For instance, blood pressure medicines such as ACE inhibitors as well as beta-blockers can stop you from having ejaculations and erections.
- Restless leg syndrome: An uncontrollable urge for moving the legs is referred to as restless leg syndrome (RLS). Researches found that men with this syndrome are more likely to develop erectile dysfunction than men without this problem. In case you think you have this, it is imperative to visit a doctor.
- Depression: Depression affects all aspects of a person’s life. People with depression feel a diminished or a complete lack of interest in sexual activities that were once pleasurable to them. What’s more, low libido is also a result of certain antidepressants and thus you should talk to your doctor if you take these medications and feel disinterested in sex.
- Chronic illness: When you are affected by any chronic health condition such as chronic pain in any part of the body, your sex life is bound to suffer. Illnesses like cancer may also reduce the sex drive and sperm production.
- Sleep problems: Men with obstructive sleep apnea have lower testosterone levels. This in turn paves the way for a diminished libido and sexual activity. Also, almost half of the men with sleep apnea experience reduced testosterone levels at night.
- Stress: If you are distracted by situations that exert immense pressure on your mind, your sex drive is bound to decrease. This is because stress can disrupt the hormone levels. Also, your arteries become narrower during stress, which constricts blood flow and leads to erectile dysfunction.
If you think you have any of these problems and you also feel a lack of interest in sexual activities, talk to your doctor without any delay.