Low Libido and What It Says About Your Health

Sex drive isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether your libido is high, low or somewhere in between, what matters most is how you feel about it. Still, if your desire for intimacy has recently faded and it’s affecting your wellbeing or your relationship it may be a signal from your body worth tuning into.

We spoke with reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Allison K. Rodgers to explore what low libido can reveal about your physical and emotional health, and what you can do if you’re looking to rekindle desire.

What Exactly Is Low Libido?

Low libido refers to a noticeable drop in sexual desire either in frequency or intensity compared to what’s typical for you. It’s more common than you might think: 20% of people assigned male at birth (AMAB) and even more people assigned female at birth (AFAB) will experience it at some point, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Signs of low libido may include:

• A lack of interest in any form of sex, including masturbation

• Fewer sexual thoughts or fantasies

• Distress or frustration related to the change in desire

If that sounds familiar, here are some common reasons why it might be happening.

1. You're Stressed

Stress is one of the most common mood (and libido) killers. Chronic stress can lower hormone levels, drain energy, and make it difficult to relax or feel present during intimacy.

2. Hormones Are in Flux

Whether it’s menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or hormonal contraception, your body’s natural fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can impact sexual desire.

• Low estrogen during breastfeeding or menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort, making sex less appealing

• Birth control pills may increase sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG), which binds testosterone and reduces libido

3. You're Not Sleeping Enough

A good night’s sleep doesn’t just improve your energy it also supports your hormonal balance and sexual function. Poor sleep has been linked to low arousal and even erectile dysfunction.

4. You're Taking Certain Medications

Some medications, including:

• Antidepressants

• Antipsychotics

• Chemotherapy drugs

• Blood pressure medications

…are known to reduce libido as a side effect. If you suspect your meds are affecting your sex drive, speak with your doctor never stop taking them without guidance.

5. Your Exercise Routine Is Off

Regular movement boosts endorphins and promotes healthy circulation both key to a healthy sex life. But too little exercise can cause sluggishness, while overtraining can reduce testosterone and raise cortisol, both of which can blunt libido.

6. You Have an Underlying Health Condition

Chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, endometriosis, and rheumatoid arthritis can interfere with desire and sexual function. Infections such as UTIs or yeast infections can also temporarily reduce libido due to pain or discomfort.

7. You're Using Alcohol or Smoking

While a little wine might help you relax, excessive alcohol lowers testosterone and can dull your body’s ability to feel pleasure. Similarly, smoking reduces blood flow and impairs arousal in all genders.

8. Mental Health Is Playing a Role

Depression, anxiety, trauma, and body image issues can all negatively impact sexual interest. And the medications used to treat these conditions may also affect libido.

Managing emotional health through therapy, mindfulness, or medication (with guidance) can significantly improve both mood and intimacy.

When to Seek Help

It’s perfectly normal for libido to rise and fall throughout life. But if low desire is:

• Bothering you or affecting your relationship

• Causing emotional distress

• Interfering with intimacy when you want it

…it’s time to speak with a doctor or licensed therapist. A proper evaluation can rule out underlying health conditions, optimize medications, and address emotional or relational concerns.

Supporting a Healthy Libido

If you’re looking to support your sexual wellbeing:

• Prioritize sleep and stress management

• Exercise regularly but not excessively

• Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats

• Limit alcohol and quit smoking

• Communicate openly with your partner about needs and expectations

The Bottom Line

Low libido isn’t something to be ashamed of it’s your body’s way of telling you something might need attention, whether physically, emotionally, or relationally. With the right care and communication, reigniting desire is not only possible it’s likely.

Israel continues to be a leader in women’s health and mind-body medicine, offering innovative approaches to hormonal and emotional wellness. For more science-backed lifestyle guidance, subscribe to our newsletter.