Let’s Talk Libido: Common Causes of Low Sex Drive (and What Can Help)

Not feeling like yourself in the bedroom lately? You’re not alone. Low sex drive is one of the most common concerns we hear from people of all genders, and it can happen at any age. 

Women may start to see a decline in their 40s, while men may see a decline starting in their 60s. 

The good news is that there are real solutions. 

At Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center, Dr. N'Dama Bamba, MD, MPH, and our Dr. Bamba’s Health and Medical Center team help both men and women restore balance through hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle strategies so intimacy feels natural again.

Here’s what you need to know.

Why your sex drive might be low

It’s normal to occasionally have a low sex drive. For example, when you’re battling the flu, your libido is likely nil. 

But when you notice that your sex drive is low week after week, it’s time to look a little deeper. The reality is that there are many reasons why your sex drive might be low.

Hormone imbalances

When testosterone, estrogen, or progesterone levels are out of sync, desire for intimacy often takes a dip. Men may notice this with age as testosterone declines, while women often feel it most during perimenopause or menopause.

Underlying health conditions 

Some health conditions can also impact your libido. Diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and chronic pain can all disrupt hormone balance, blood flow, and energy levels.

Stress and mental health

High stress, anxiety, or depression can decrease intimacy. If your mind is racing, it’s hard to relax and feel connected.

Sleep and fatigue

Running on empty? Poor sleep throws your hormones off balance and drains your energy, both of which impact sexual health.

Medications

Certain prescriptions, like antidepressants or blood pressure meds, may come with a side effect no one likes: lower libido.

However, if you suspect that your medication is impacting your libido, don’t alter your medication unless directed to do so. If you’re concerned about side effects of your medication, let Dr. Bamba know.

Relationship strain

Sex drive isn’t just physical. It’s also emotional. Conflict, stress, or lack of closeness with your partner can all take a toll.

How to get back on track

You don’t have to settle for low libido. Here’s how we can help:

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

HRT balances your hormones, boosts energy, and revives desire. The goal is to bring your hormones up to their normal level. 

Dr. Bamba gets your baseline levels through a blood test. Once she’s pinpointed which hormones need to be boosted, she’ll walk you through your options. HRT is available in many formats, including pills, injections, patches, and oral creams.

She also offers a long-acting HRT that is implanted just under your skin. The implant, which is about the size of a grain of rice, emits the just-right-for-you dose of hormones, so you don’t have to worry about daily pills or creams. 

Lifestyle upgrades

In addition to HRT, you can implement lifestyle habits to support your sexual health. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress give your body what it needs for healthy intimacy.

Better sleep

Your body needs sleep to function, so plan on 7–9 hours of quality rest each night. Not only does this help reset your hormones and boost your energy, but it also helps improve your mental clarity and focus.

Open communication

If you suspect that relationship problems are impacting your libido, be open with your partner about your sexual frustrations. Talking honestly with your partner often strengthens your connection both in and out of the bedroom.

The best time to talk about it is before things get physical. Schedule a quiet time to discuss any concerns you have with your partner.

Concerns about your libido? Let’s talk

Low sex drive is common, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. With the right care, you can feel more energized, confident, and connected. 

Give us a call at 443-493-7760. Or, request an appointment in our Glen Burnie, Maryland, location.