Why there is a loss of libido?

By Dr. Shweta Goswami 

Loss of libido (sex drive) is a common problem that can affect men and women of any age. It is normal for many people to loss sex drive after a certain age especially women. Usually it happens when you attain Peri-menopausal age which is 42 onwards. Usually women feels mood swings, vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse during the peri-menopausal phase i.e before menopause and after the age of 45 and above which is the ideal age of menopause, levels of the female hormone oestrogen begin to fall in their blood, which can affect libido and they loss interest in sex. 

What causes loss of libido: 

1. Physical issues: Physical issues such as low testosterone as they are responsible for building muscles and bone mass and stimulating sperm production. Decreasing testosterone is a normal part of aging. However, a drastic drop in testosterone can lead to decreased libido 

2. Medications: Certain medications can sometimes reduce libido in men: like medication for high blood pressure medications may prevent ejaculation and erections or any other allergy to certain drugs medication for hyperprolactinaemia, a rare disorder in which the gland at the base of the brain is producing too many hormones; anti-androgenic drugs such as

cimetidine, finasteride and cyproterone, which block the effects or reduce the production of testosterone. 

3. Psychological issues which include depression, stress, and problems in your relationship. It's a serious illness where you may have feelings of extreme sadness that can last for a long time. These feelings are severe enough to interfere with your daily life, including your sex life 

4. Illness: There are many other aspects as well which includes hormonal change in the body, diabetes, injury in the back after delivery, chronic illness like cancer, can reduce your sperm production counts since your body focuses on getting through the day. These all factors are responsible for the loss of libido in women and men. Diminishing levels of sex hormones or age-related health problems are also few causes. 

You can also take steps to boost your libido on your own. The following have the potential to increase your libido: 

1. Live a healthier lifestyle 

2. Get enough sleep 

3. Practice stress management 

4. Reduce alcohol intake 

5. Go for Testosterone replacement therapy(ask your doctor first) 

6. Counseling