Having Trouble With Low Libido? Check Out These 12 Potential Culprits

Many individuals hesitate to discuss low libido with their doctors until prompted by personal inquiries, at which point the stark reality comes to light. Countless women fear intimacy with their partners, preferring sleep instead, while men may go for months or even years without enjoying a fulfilling intimate relationship with their spouses.

It truly surprises me how many people accept health issues like low libido, believing it’s just a normal part of life or a consequence of aging. Just because something is prevalent doesn’t mean it should be accepted as normal. As someone deeply curious about sexual wellness and passionate about helping people improve intimacy, I focus on uncovering the underlying causes of issues like a diminished sex drive. Rather than simply resorting to another medication, why not explore the reasons behind your concerns in the first place?

Here are some of the most common root causes of low sex drive identified by Functional Medicine Practitioners in their medical practice.

1. Low iron

Iron is essential for delivering oxygen to your cells, and when your levels are insufficient, one of the symptoms can be a decreased sex drive. In fact, a study published in PLoS One found that sexual function and satisfaction were significantly lower in women suffering from iron deficiency anemia (IDA). I recommend getting your iron and ferritin levels checked to see how you measure up.

What to do: If your levels are low, it’s important to determine the cause. I suggest collaborating with your doctor to rule out any internal bleeding. Once that’s confirmed, incorporating iron-rich foods such as grass-fed liver or beef, along with green leafy vegetables and beets, is an excellent way to begin replenishing your iron stores.

2. Adrenal fatigue

Adrenal fatigue happens when the adrenal glands fail to produce the stress hormone cortisol effectively. This can lead to cortisol levels being either too high or too low, leaving you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt sexual arousal, as research indicates, and experiencing chronic stress can have a similar impact.

What to do: Having experienced adrenal fatigue myself, I understand the most effective tools to combat it. A well-rounded approach that incorporates stress and sleep management, adaptogenic herbs, and nourishing foods are among my top recommendations for adrenal fatigue. Additionally, I advise collaborating with your doctor to create a personalized plan.

3. Underactive thyroid

Underactive thyroids don’t produce sufficient hormones, which can result in lethargy, exhaustion, and fatigue. Research has also indicated that hypothyroidism can negatively affect female sexual function, including desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain.

What to do: I recommend undergoing thorough thyroid testing, as many underlying thyroid issues may not be detected in standard thyroid labs. Based on your results, partner with your doctor or endocrinologist to develop a tailored strategy for optimal thyroid health.

4. Gut problems

Your gastrointestinal system is often referred to as the “second brain” due to the gut-brain axis. This connection can contribute to mood disorders such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies have established a link between mental health disorders and sexual dysfunction.

What to do: Start supporting your gut by taking high-quality probiotics, maintaining a healthy, gut-friendly diet, and exercising regularly, among other strategies.

5. Sex hormone imbalance

Hormones, like everything else in the body, adhere to the “Goldilocks principle:” not too high, not too low, but just right. When your estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels are out of balance, it can leave you feeling completely disinterested in sex.

What to do: Begin by getting a thorough hormone panel conducted, then collaborate with a doctor to determine the most effective treatment plan, which should include dietary choices to help balance your hormones.

6. Insulin resistance

Elevated insulin levels can result in conditions such as metabolic syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), both of which may contribute to decreased libido and fertility challenges.

What to do: Check your fasting glucose and Hgb A1c levels to assess for insulin resistance, and then partner with a doctor to establish the best course of action. Some physicians recommend intermittent fasting and ketogenic diets as potential methods to lower insulin levels.

7. Medications

A frequently overlooked factor in low libido is medication. Common drugs, including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, pain relievers, and antihistamines, can lead to reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction in certain individuals.

What to do: Discuss with your doctor about possible alternatives to your current medication. You might also explore a functional medicine approach, which emphasizes overall health improvement, allowing your doctor to minimize or eliminate medications when feasible.

8. Stress

No matter how nutritious your diet and exercise routine may appear, persistent stress can disrupt your overall health, energy levels, and indeed, your sex life.

What to do: Engage in stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, tai chi, and breathwork.

9. Leptin resistance

This lesser-known hormonal issue arises when the brain cells in your hypothalamus fail to communicate effectively with leptin, a hormone produced by fat cells. Leptin resistance has been linked to reduced testosterone levels, which can diminish libido in both men and women.

What to do: If your leptin and CRP inflammation levels are elevated, consider reducing your intake of refined sugars, refined grains, and other inflammatory foods. Instead, prioritize anti-inflammatory foods and ensure you get adequate sleep.

10. Low growth hormone (GH)

Research indicates that high insulin levels can impair your body’s ability to produce growth hormone, which may decrease sexual response in male and potentially female genitalia.

What to do: Herbs such as horny goat weed and Ginkgo biloba are often utilized to promote healthy growth hormone levels. Collaborating with your doctor to explore additional treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy or other medications, may also prove beneficial.

11. Vitamin D deficiency

Research has demonstrated that a lack of vitamin D can contribute to depression and sexual dysfunction in healthy males and females.

What to do: Have your vitamin D levels assessed, take supplements as advised by your doctor, and aim to spend more time outdoors.

12. Lack of Healthy Fats

Healthy fats such as coconut oil, avocados, ghee, and olive oil are essential for producing healthy hormones and supporting brain function. Research has shown that individuals following a low-fat diet had notably lower testosterone levels compared to those who consumed adequate fats.

What to do: Incorporate a variety of healthy fats into your diet. This includes healthy oils and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, seeds, and nuts.

Key Takeaway

Low libido isn’t something you have to “just live with.” Our bodies are incredibly responsive, and when we start to listen, they tell us exactly what they need. Whether it’s restoring hormonal balance, reducing stress, or simply nourishing yourself better, addressing the root cause can reignite your natural vitality and intimacy.

What should we dig into next? You get to help shape the next post.