Decreased LibidoFirst and foremost on the list of common sexual dysfunctions, a decreased libido refers to a decrease in sexual appetite and the desire to participate in sexual activity. This problem may manifest itself in two primary forms: sexual aversion, or hypoactive (underactive) sexual desire. The names speak for themselves. While sexual aversion is thought to be quite a rare disorder, hypoactive sexual desire is common, and thought to affect up to 33.4% of women and 15.8% of men [1]. The causes of decreased libido are both infinite and interactive. Lowered androgen levels [2], depression and the use of anti-depressant medications such as SSRIs [3], and the use of anabolic steroids are common perpetrators, but tiredness and stress are definitely the key players. Many men and women simply find it hard after a long day at work and dealing with usual stresses concomitant with the hectic lifestyle of today to simply ‘make the switch’ and turn into a sensual, caring, satisfying lover by night. It can be (and often is) as simple as just not having the energy. The effect on partners and relationships, however, can be drastic.
1. Laumann, E. O., Gagnon, J. H., Michael, R. T., & Michaels, S. (1994) The social organization of sexuality: Sexual practices in the United States. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. 2. Turna B, Apaydin E, Semerci B, Altay B, Cikili N, Nazli O (2005) Women with low libido: correlation of decreased androgen levels with female sexual function index, International Journal of Impotence Research 17(2):148-53. 3. Woodrum ST, Brown CS (1998) Management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, The Annals of Pharmacotherapy 32(11):1209-15.
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