Decreased Sexual Desire in Men – Understand the Causes and What Can Be Done

Smiling man lying on a bed giving a thumbs up sign

A decrease in sexual desire in men, or low libido, is far more common than most people think. Many men experience it at some point in their lives, and it can happen at any age. The silence surrounding this topic often stems from embarrassment or fear that something is wrong with one's masculinity. But the truth is, sexual desire is a complex measure influenced by physical, emotional, and environmental factors.

A decrease in sexual desire is not necessarily the same as sexual dysfunction (such as erectile problems). A man can be physically functional but simply not feel the urge or desire to initiate intimacy. Libido is about desire and motivation, not just ability. The good news is that in most cases, it's not a permanent or irreversible issue. A deep understanding of the root cause is the first and most important step toward finding an effective, personalized solution rather than a general one. Let's begin by understanding the main causes of reduced sexual desire in men.

Hormonal Imbalance

The Cause – The main male hormone, testosterone, plays a central role in regulating sexual desire. Testosterone levels naturally and gradually decline with age, but a sharp drop or chronically low levels can also occur in younger men due to medical reasons. This decline directly leads to reduced libido, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and even low mood.

Possible Solution – The first step is accurate diagnosis. Visiting a family doctor or endocrinologist usually includes comprehensive blood tests to assess the hormonal profile. If significantly low levels are found, the doctor may recommend balancing treatments. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy might be offered, but only under close medical supervision and after ruling out other risks.

Chronic Diseases And Medical Conditions

The Cause – A wide range of chronic illnesses can cause fatigue, malaise, and discomfort—all of which directly impact sexual desire. Conditions such as diabetes (especially when uncontrolled), cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, severe obesity (which also affects hormones), kidney, or liver disease can all play a role.

Possible Solution – In such cases, treating the libido issue means treating the underlying condition. Strictly balancing blood sugar levels, maintaining normal blood pressure, addressing heart disease, and especially weight loss (in the case of obesity) can work wonders. When the body is healthier, it has more energy and resources for sexual desire.

Side Effects Of Medications

The Cause – Unfortunately, many medications designed to save or improve quality of life may have side effects that include decreased sexual desire in men. The main drug groups associated with this are certain blood pressure medications, antidepressants (especially specific types), treatments for enlarged prostate, strong painkillers, and chemotherapy.

Important to Know – You must never stop taking medication on your own without consulting your doctor first!

Possible Solution – The best approach is open and honest communication with your doctor. Report the side effect. In many cases, the doctor can adjust the dosage, switch to a different medication with a different side-effect profile, or add supportive treatment.

Fatigue, Exhaustion, And Sleep Disorders

The Cause – We live in a demanding world. Chronic fatigue, long working hours, and lack of sufficient sleep directly affect sexual desire. The body stays in survival mode. A common but underdiagnosed condition is sleep apnea, which reduces oxygen levels at night and directly leads to lower morning testosterone levels and a sharp drop in libido.

Possible Solution – Sleep must be prioritized. Getting 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night is essential. If you snore heavily, wake up tired despite a full night's sleep, or your partner notices breathing pauses, get tested in a sleep lab or use a home test. Diagnosing and treating sleep apnea (for example, with a CPAP device) can lead to dramatic improvement in both quality of life and sexual desire.

Psychological And Emotional Factors

The Cause – Chronic stress is the number-one enemy of libido. Whether it's work pressure, financial worries, or personal anxiety, the body responds by releasing the stress hormone cortisol. Persistently high cortisol disrupts other hormones, including testosterone. In a constant "fight-or-flight" state, the body shuts down nonessential functions like reproduction and sexual drive.

Possible Solution – Active stress management. Relaxation techniques, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or any calming activity can help. Regular exercise is also a natural anxiety reliever and mood booster. For significant anxiety, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychological counseling can provide practical coping tools.

Depression And Low Mood

The Cause – Depression alters brain chemistry. One of its hallmark symptoms is anhedonia—the inability to feel pleasure from activities that once brought joy, including sex. A drop in libido is often an early or prominent sign of hidden depression.

Possible Solution – Recognizing and treating depression is critical. Seek professional help from a psychologist or psychiatrist. Talk therapy can be highly beneficial, and in some cases, antidepressants may be recommended. However, since some of these drugs can affect libido, work closely with your doctor to find the right therapeutic balance.

Body Image And Low Self-Confidence

The Cause – Men talk about this less, but body image plays a major role. Dissatisfaction with one's appearance, weight gain, or aging can lead to feeling less attractive or masculine, which in turn reduces the desire to initiate intimacy.

Possible Solution – The key lies in focusing on health rather than appearance. Starting a light fitness routine and adopting a healthier diet can quickly boost energy levels and confidence—even before major physical changes appear. Emotional therapy can also help dismantle limiting beliefs about self-worth and body image.

Lifestyle And Relationship Factors

Our habits, environment, and relationships all have a direct impact on libido.

Unhealthy Diet and Physical Inactivity

The Cause – A diet high in saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods leads to weight gain, poor blood flow (essential for sexual function), and fatigue. Conversely, a lack of exercise weakens the body and reduces endorphin and testosterone production.

The possible solutions:

Proper nutrition – there's no need for drastic changes. Start with small, doable steps: more vegetables, fruits, and low-fat foods into your diet. Reduce sugary drinks and fried foods. At the same time, include physical activities you enjoy, whether it's brisk walking, running, cycling, or strength training. Regular exercise naturally boosts testosterone levels, improves blood circulation, and enhances mood.

A vibrant collection of fresh vegetables and fruits, including cabbage, tomatoes, broccoli, lemons, and bananas, on a green background.

Longevity

Longevity, or extended lifespan, is a term that has been gaining increasing attention lately and is closely and inseparably linked to topics such as decreased sexual desire in men. The modern medicine of longevity goes beyond merely extending life expectancy; it primarily focuses on enhancing healthy life expectancy. Either way, the main goal is not just to live longer, but to live better – maintaining physical, cognitive, and mental vitality at an older age while delaying the onset of chronic diseases.

A healthy libido is considered one of the most significant indicators of overall vitality and good health. It reflects proper hormonal balance, healthy blood vessels, high energy levels, and emotional well-being. Therefore, a decrease in sexual desire in men is often an early sign or a direct result of accelerated aging processes or imbalances in other bodily systems – precisely the processes that longevity science aims to slow down.

The growing focus in this field highlights that there is no single magic solution. Therefore, it is highly recommended to explore the subject in depth and, once you begin with a personalized and comprehensive assessment, that leads to tailored solutions. The evaluation goes beyond standard blood tests and may include advanced biological markers (such as inflammation levels and a complete hormonal profile), an analysis of lifestyle and habits, and even genetic screening.

Only after gaining a precise understanding of your unique starting point can personalized solutions be developed. Instead of treating just the symptom (low libido), the longevity approach aims to address the root cause – whether it's improving metabolic health, balancing hormones, reducing chronic stress, or enhancing sleep quality – thereby restoring overall vitality, of which sexual desire is an integral part.

Excessive Alcohol or Substance Use

The Cause – While a glass of wine can relax you, chronic heavy drinking damages the central nervous system and liver hormone production, suppressing sexual desire. Heavy smoking harms blood vessels, and drug use can completely disrupt brain chemistry.

Possible Solution – Moderation is key. Reducing alcohol intake can bring quick improvement. Quitting smoking greatly benefits blood circulation and overall health. For substance abuse or addiction, professional treatment is essential.

Relationship Conflicts and Emotional Distance

The Cause – A drop in sexual desire often signals deeper relationship issues–unresolved anger, resentment, poor communication, emotional distance, infidelity, or simply routine and boredom. It's hard to desire someone you feel emotionally disconnected from.

Possible Solution – Open communication is essential. Share feelings honestly without blame ("I feel..."). Often, a heart-felt talk can clear the air. If that's difficult, couples therapy or sex therapy can help rebuild emotional closeness—the foundation of sexual desire.

Sexual Performance Issues

The Cause – Performance anxiety is a vicious psychological cycle. It may start with a one-time difficulty (erection or premature ejaculation) or tense due to fatigue. The resulting fear and failed triggers stress hormones like adrenaline, which constricts blood vessels and worsens performance. The brain responds, set on anxiety, fear of failure, and suppression of pleasure, not sexual enthusiasm.

Possible Solution – Break the anxiety loop by restoring confidence. Consult a doctor (family physician or urologist) to identify the cause and rule out medical issues. In many cases, prescribed medication can provide reassurance and help regain functional confidence. Once successful experiences return, natural desire often follows. Psychological or sex therapy can be added to address the anxiety pattern itself.

Personalized Treatment With SKCURE

At Skcure, we understand the sensitivity involved and are committed to accompanying each patient on their personal journey toward improved vitality and intimacy. We believe there is no single magic solution that fits everyone, which is why our approach begins with a deep understanding of your condition. Our comprehensive treatment program includes a dedicated questionnaire that allows us to identify the root cause of the issue and create a truly personalized solution that provides a more precise response. If the doctor determines that the appropriate solution is a compounded prescription, instead of running between pharmacies to combine various products, you will receive from us a unique preparation, specially formulated for you in the optimal composition under strict pharmaceutical supervision. The unique formula will contain 2–6 active ingredients, including exclusive components, to deliver the most accurate and effective results. Everything is carefully packaged and discreetly delivered straight to your home, ensuring complete privacy.

Authored By - Dr. Shlomo Sadoun

A pioneering pharma entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in the health and biotechnology sectors. Operating at the intersection of science, innovation, and a global vision, leading the development of advanced medical solutions with a real impact on patients’ lives.