It’s common to lose interest in sex from time to time, and libido levels vary through life. It’s also normal for your interest not to match your partner’s at times.

However, low libido for a long period of time may cause concern and can sometimes be an indicator of an underlying health condition.

Low libido is a term used to describe a reduced sex drive that can interfere with sexual activity and it can affect both men and women equally. While low libido can cause tension in a relationship, fostering doubt and guilt in both partners, it can often be treated if the underlying cause is identified, restoring the relationship.

Low libido and erectile dysfunction (ED) are often conflated but the two are vastly different although it is possible for the two conditions to co-exist. It's important that a couple, whilst trying to figure out the underlying cause, maintain a good line of communication and continue to be open and honest with each other during this time. Treatment can vary and may involve psychotherapy, hormone replacement, lifestyle changes, or the adjustment of drug therapies.

Low libido can sometimes be caused by one factor but is more often related to multiple factors that each contribute in their own way. The more common causes include low testosterone, medications, depression, chronic illness, and stress.

1. Manage stress

Often, stress and anxiety can be a huge contributing factor to low libido. It is suggested that regular exercise and honest communication can help prevent anxiety affecting libido. Aerobic workouts like running, biking and swimming help improve blood flow to your sex organs. Exercise also boosts endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that make you feel good and can put you in the right mood.

Having high levels of anxiety is a common barrier to sexual functioning and libido for both men and women. This may be anxiety due to life stress or specific sex-related anxiety.

People with an intense work schedule, caring responsibilities, or other life stresses may often feel tired and, as a result, have low sexual desire. Anxiety and stress can also make it more difficult for someone to get or maintain an erection, which can put a person off having sex.