Low sex drive

More often than not, your partner having a low sex drive has nothing to do with you. Low sex drive in men and women can be caused by so many different factors. Many of which are out of their control. So, try to bear with them. Join us as we look at some common reasons why your partner’s libido might be lacking.

Why is my partner’s sex drive low?

Exhaustion

If a partner’s physically spent, for whatever reason, they’re not likely to have the energy to climb on top of you and give it their all. Being out of shape won’t help either. Even if they’re just overworked, it’ll probably have a knock-on effect on your sex life. At that point, the only thing they’ll want to do in bed is sleep. This is something that can cause low sex drive in women, men and basically any animal on the planet.

Depression

Decreased libido is a symptom in almost three quarters of all depression cases. Which makes sense. If they’re barely able to get up in the morning then you can bet that sex is the last thing on their mind. Depression is a treatable condition, however. Talking about how they’re feeling plays a central role in recovery. So if your partner seems depressed, rather than focusing on sex, you should encourage them to see their doctor. Especially if they ask you something like: “Why do I suddenly have a low sex drive?”. That way they can get the therapy they need.

Medication

Low sex drive is also a side effect of certain antidepressants. Alternatively, the pill can be the cause of low sex drive in women. Plus, some recreational drugs are known to reduce sex drive. Not to mention, excessive amounts of alcohol, heroin and cocaine’ll also have a marked effect on a person’s libido. Basically, just make sure you’re thinking twice about what you’re putting in your body to avoid any unwanted consequences.

Low testosterone causes low sex drive in men

Having low levels of this hormone can lead to low sex drive in men. Testosterone replacement therapy will help. Thing is, only a GP can diagnose if you have a medical condition, such as sexual dysfunction or erectile dysfunction, that needs treatment.

They’re unwell

Believe it or not, even the slightest sniffle can cause decreased libido. Everyone copes with illness differently, of course. Just be aware that in some cases a loss of libido can also be symptomatic of a more serious condition. From hypoactive sexual desire disorder (when your desire for sex is practically non-existent and it bothers you) to thyroid disease to pituitary gland problems and unbalanced hormone levels. 

If they’ve had a low sex drive for a while it might be worth talking to your doctor and getting some medical advice. This goes for any signs of sexual dysfunction in women as well as men. Although you might need to go to a specialist in women’s health for the former.

Relationship issues

If their head’s not in the bedroom, then sex is probably off the table. It’s not just everyday stresses and strains that can get them distracted. Problems stemming from their formative years may suddenly make an unwelcome appearance, especially if they’re sex related. Be aware that they might not be ready to talk about it just yet. But if they know that their partner is concerned and keen to help, they’ll turn to you when they’re ready.

They’re complacent

Sex-wise, the early stages of a relationship are where things get hot and heavy. The physical attraction, combined with the excitement of exploring male and female sexuality, can lead to days spent in the bedroom. Over time, however, as the emotional bond begins to strengthen, and you come back down to earth, all those sexual desires may start to fade. 

Still, there’s a fine line between being comfortable with your other half and being complacent. So if you’re feeling neglected by your partner then you should let them know!

What to do about your partner’s low sex drive

If your partner has a low sex drive and you’re worried about them, then you need to talk to them about it. All you have to do is make sure you avoid raising the subject at a difficult time and be tactful about how you word things in case they’re sensitive about it. Our how much sex is normal? and how to talk to your partner articles should help you navigate this potentially tricky situation.