What causes loss of libido?

Desire can change with exhaustion, burnout, anxiety, low mood, relationship tension, pain, or worries about sex. Physical causes include low testosterone, hypothyroidism, type 2 diabetes, sexual pain, and erectile dysfunction. Pregnancy, menopause, other hormonal changes, and some medicines can also affect desire. Sleep disruption and alcohol or drug use may add to the effect.

Loss of libido is a symptom rather than a verdict about attraction or a relationship. It may be temporary, or it may continue until an underlying problem is addressed. The pattern, timing, and impact on you are useful information for a clinician.

Notice when the change began and whether it followed a new medicine, illness, stress, relationship difficulty, or change in sleep. Talk openly with a trusted partner if that feels safe, without treating desire as an obligation. Support regular sleep, movement, and balanced meals, and limit alcohol if it affects intimacy. Book a confidential medical review if the change persists, causes distress, or occurs with pain, erection problems, menstrual changes, or low mood.

Seek prompt help for severe depression, thoughts of self-harm, sudden neurological symptoms, or sexual pain with bleeding or injury. Otherwise, arrange a review when reduced desire is persistent, troubling, or accompanied by fatigue, temperature intolerance, excessive thirst, or erection changes. A clinician can review medicines and decide whether hormone or other tests are relevant.

Ask which medicines or conditions might contribute, whether hormone or blood tests are appropriate, how mood and sleep may be involved, and what treatment options fit your symptoms and relationship goals.