Suffering from a low intimacy drive? It may sound trite, but it bears repeating: you’re not alone! Low sex drive isn’t universally problematic, as it may mean simply that you are asexual or that your body is naturally hard-wired that way. What’s right and normal is different for everyone. But if a lack of sexual desire is a new problem that is adversely affecting your life, it likely stems from a psychological or physical cause that you may want to inquire more into.

Psychological issues:

Low libido can show up in a lack of desire for engaging in sex, masturbation, or sexual fantasies. If you’re struggling to feel turned on and feeling worried about it, don’t let it disrupt your life. There’s often a psychological issue at work, and it can be treated through therapy. Poor body image and low self-esteem could be affecting your ability to feel aroused. Those who have a history of physical or sexual abuse, or have experienced previous negative sexual experiences, may also find it hampering their current sex life. These are all issues that can absolutely be overcome through counseling. Find a therapist that you feel safe and comfortable to work with, and you’ll be on the right track to restoring your sex drive.

When it comes to sex, emotions and physical pleasure are often deeply intertwined. Some problems, such as experiencing pain during sex or an inability to orgasm, may be both psychological and physical in nature. If you’re in a relationship, you may want to consider undergoing couple’s counseling as issues with emotional closeness can affect your sex life together. Stress and fatigue from the pressures of work, parenting, or illness is another common culprit that can be addressed by a therapist experienced in working with intimate problems. And mental health problems like depression and anxiety can take a toll on your libido as well, though beware that some medications used to treat these conditions can also blunt desire.

Physical issues:

Pay attention to how other areas of your health may be affecting your sex drive. Lifestyle habits like overindulgence in alcohol or smoking can dull arousal. Again, if you’re using certain prescription drugs, you’ll also want to be aware of any side effects that could affect your sex drive. Speak to your doctor or psychiatrist for expert guidance.

Low libido can also be the result of deeper changes that affect both the body and mind. For women, hormonal changes caused by birth control pills, pregnancy, menopause, and aging can dim desire. For men, low libido can be the result of testosterone levels lowering with age. Medical diseases, including those non-sexual in nature, also have an impact. Arthritis, cancer, coronary artery disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological diseases may affect sexual function and desire for sex. The same goes for any surgery affecting your breasts or genital tract.

A low sex drive can happen to anyone or any combination of the above factors. What’s important is to seek the help you need.

Women, don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with MiBella Wellness.

Men, don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with MiBella Wellness.