JAKARTA - Decreased sexual desire or low libido is a common problem that can be experienced by both men and women. According to the National Health Service (NHS), about one in five men experience a decrease in libido, and women can also experience it.
This problem can be caused by many factors, and does not always indicate a serious illness. For example, stress, changes in life stages such as pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
However, if the decrease in libido persists, it is necessary to find the cause because it can have negative effects.
"The first important thing is to know how much the libido decreases," said Catarina de Morales, psychiatrist and secretary of the Brazilian Sexual Medical Association, quoted from the BBC website.
"Often people are confused about distinguishing between erectile problems, sexual performance, sexual satisfaction, and decreased libido. In fact, these are different," he added.
According to endocrinologist Diego Fonseca, a medical diagnosis for low libido usually requires symptoms that last at least six months. However, according to Ribeiro Marisca from Women Hospital, the duration can be different for each person. Here are the four main causes of decreased libido.
1. Changes in Routine and Life Stages
Stress, fatigue, lifestyle changes, or taking care of children can lower libido.
"If libido decreases for this reason, it is not a disease. Even having sex often can make libido decrease over time," said Catarina de Morales.
As long as sexual intercourse remains satisfactory, a decrease in libido does not need to be feared.
2. Mental Health Problems
Depression, anxiety, and stress can lower sexual desire because they affect brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Some antidepressants can also cause side effects on libido.
"Patients should continue to undergo treatment and discuss sexual problems with their doctors," said the psychiatrist.
Psychological therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes can help increase libido.
3. Hormonal Changes
Estrogen hormones in women and testosterone in men play an important role in libido. Estrogen affects genital health and emotional satisfaction, while testosterone is associated with sperm production, sexual desire, and mental health.
"Diagnosis of hormonal problems is quite complex. Not all patients need medication; counseling on body changes can also help," said Dr. Caroline Castro, endocrinologist.
4. Other Diseases Affecting the Body
Several diseases can directly or indirectly lower libido.
- Brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, spinal cord injury.
- Diabetes can lower libido due to fatigue or nerve damage.
- Heart disease makes stamina decrease and medicines can also affect libido.
The importance of communication
There is no instant cure to increase libido. Each case is different, and treatment depends on each condition. To overcome it, you should talk to your partner to find the solution.
"It's important to talk about low libido honestly. Although awkward, communication can eliminate misunderstandings and give the opportunity to find a solution together." said Diego Fonseca.
With open communication, mutual understanding, and treatment according to the cause, libido can improve and the couple's relationship remains harmonious.
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