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25 March 2026What Is Low Sexual Desire?
Low sexual desire is a condition in which a person experiences a marked decrease in sexual thoughts, desire, and motivation. However, not every decrease in libido is a disease. According to current international definitions, low sexual desire is clinically evaluated only if it creates significant distress in the individual.
In other words, what matters is not only the reduction in sexual desire, but whether this condition negatively affects the person’s quality of life and relationship.
The answer to the question “What causes low sexual desire?” is not linked to a single factor. Hormonal, psychological, relational, and systemic causes may all play a role together.
What Are the Types of Low Sexual Desire?
Low sexual desire can present in different forms:
|
Type |
Definition |
|
Lifelong (Primary) Low Sexual Desire |
The individual has never felt an adequate level of sexual desire throughout life. |
|
Acquired (Secondary) Low Sexual Desire |
Sexual desire that was previously normal decreases over time. |
|
Generalized Low Sexual Desire |
Lack of desire occurs in every setting and with every partner. |
|
Situational Low Sexual Desire |
Occurs only with a specific partner or in specific situations. |
|
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) |
A condition characterized by reduced spontaneous sexual thoughts, diminished response to erotic stimuli, and significant distress caused by this situation. |
How Is Low Sexual Desire Recognized?
Low sexual desire may be considered if the following symptoms are present:
- Decrease in sexual thoughts and fantasies
- Indifference toward a partner’s intimacy
- Reduced desire to initiate sexual intercourse
- Inability to maintain excitement during sexual activity
- Feeling of “I’m not like I used to be”
Low Sexual Desire in Men
Low sexual desire in men is often associated with low testosterone; however, this is not always the case. The clinical picture can often be more complex.
What Causes Low Sexual Desire in Men?
- Low testosterone
- Chronic stress
- Depression
- Performance anxiety
- Erectile dysfunction
- Diabetes and obesity
- Antidepressant use
- Sleep disorders
The most important distinction here is that erectile dysfunction and low sexual desire in men are not the same.
In other words, a man may have erections but low libido, or libido may be normal while there is an erection problem.
Low Sexual Desire in Women
In women, sexual desire develops through the balance of biological, psychological, and relational factors.
Causes of Low Sexual Desire in Women
Hormonal Causes
- Menopause
- Low testosterone
- Thyroid diseases
- Elevated prolactin
Psychological Causes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Body image problems
Physical Causes
- Vaginal dryness
- Painful intercourse
- Postpartum changes
Relationship Factors
- Partner incompatibility
- Desire discrepancy
- Communication problems
In women, low sexual desire is often not due to a single cause.
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Causes of Low Sexual Desire
In general, the causes of low sexual desire are grouped into three main categories:
1. Biological Causes
- Hormonal imbalances
- Chronic diseases
- Medication side effects
2. Psychological Causes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Traumatic experiences
3. Relational and Social Causes
- Communication problems with a partner
- Long-term relationship monotony
- Cultural pressures
Therefore, evaluation must always be holistic.
Treatment of Low Sexual Desire
Treatment of low sexual desire is individualized. There is no single solution.
1. Psychological Treatments
Scientific studies show that:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness-based therapy
- Sex therapy
are effective in increasing sexual desire.
Especially in long-term relationships, couples therapy can provide significant benefit.
2. Medication Treatment
In some cases, medications that act on the central nervous system may be used. Particularly in women, some specific medications are approved.
If low sexual desire is related to antidepressants, medication adjustment may be made.
3. Testosterone Therapy
In postmenopausal women, low-dose transdermal testosterone therapy may be effective in appropriate patients.
If low testosterone is detected in men, replacement therapy may be planned.
However, testosterone:
- Is not given to everyone
- Requires monitoring
- Discontinuation must be managed as carefully as initiation
4. Estrogen Therapy
It is not recommended solely for low sexual desire; however, it may provide indirect benefit if vaginal dryness and pain are present.
5. Is There a Herbal Treatment for Low Sexual Desire?
Searches for “herbal treatment for low sexual desire” are quite common. Although there is limited data for some products such as L-arginine, the level of scientific evidence is low. Uncontrolled product use may create hormonal imbalance.

Low Sexual Desire Treatment İstanbul Kadıkoy
Feel free to contact us for any questions you may have.
How Can Sexual Desire Be Increased?
- Regular exercise
- Healthy nutrition
- Proper sleep routine
- Reducing alcohol and smoking
- Open communication with a partner
- Stress management
Sexual desire is not only hormonal; it is directly related to mood and relationship quality.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- If lack of desire lasts longer than 6 months
- If it affects the relationship
- If accompanied by erectile problems
- If there is a sudden change after menopause
- If symptoms of depression are present

