Low Sexual Desire

People of all genders can experience different levels of sexual desire. Some individuals may not feel sexual attraction or desire at all and might identify as asexual. In relationships, partners may have mismatched levels of sexual desire, which is quite common. Sexual desire is subjective; what one person considers low desire can feel like high desire to someone else, and this can also create a desire discrepancy within relationships. Low sexual desire can stem from other sexual issues, such as unreliable erections or ejaculation problems, which may lead to avoiding sex and a decrease in desire. Additionally, if sex is painful or penetration is challenging, it’s often normal for sexual desire to diminish as a result. Going through the Menopause or serious illnesses can also have an impact on our level of sexual desire. Identifying the underlying cause of the desire issue is essential for effective treatment.

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Physical Causes of Low Sexual Desire

As in all sexual problems, medical factors or illnesses can be something that impacts our sexual functioning, such as low testosterone, the menopause, general health and lifestyle problems and the impact of medications such as diabetic medication or antidepressants. It is important to visit your GP if your interest in sex has changed and you are distressed about that change.

 

Medical Treatments

Medical treatments for low sexual desire problems vary depending on the underlying causes which is why we would suggest speaking to your GP in the first instance as this may lead to you taking a medication or making changes to the medications you currently take.  Alcohol or unprescribed drug use can also be a factor and may need addressing in order to reduce the impact on sexual functioning or sexual desire. Medications and substances that can cause low desire include some antidepressants, some cancer treatments some high blood pressure medications, diuretics, antipsychotic medications, anti-seizure medications and alcohol or illegal drugs.

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Sex Therapy for Low Sexual Desire

There are many psychological causes for sexual desire problems, including:

• The impact of past traumas

• Any fears, anxieties or phobias around sex

• Desire and arousal issues

• Relationship problems

• Lack of sex education and knowledge

• Anxiety due to religious or cultural beliefs

• Pressure to conceive a baby

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A professional sex therapist will complete a full assessment to identify the main psychological causes of your issues and will then support you, through a series of cognitive and behavioural processes, to establish a level of sexual desire that you are happy with.