7 Reasons Your Sex Drive is Zapped

If you feel sexual desire or enjoyment has gone to the wayside, it’s time to check in with your mind and body. Though it’s not uncommon for your libido to change from time to time, this loss of interest may be linked to something else going on.

It’s time to get back that loving feeling, so we gathered 7 of the most common reasons your sex drive has taken a nosedive. Keep in mind, it’s always important to talk to your doctor, but these tips may help get the conversation started.

7 reasons your sex drive tanked

Exhaustion, fatigue, or insomnia 

The old cliche of being too tired for sex is anything but a myth. When you’re sleep deprived — whether from being overworked or suffering from insomnia — your hormones take a dip. Sexual hormones such as testosterone and estrogen play a key role in your sex drive. Developing quality sleep habits can help reignite the mood. Try having a regular bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine, and reducing your engagement with screens at least one hour before bed.

Perimenopause

The shifts in hormones during your menopausal years may affect your sex drive. Though some women report feeling friskier during this time, many women also notice a dip in their desire. If you’re experiencing symptoms of perimenopause — like changes in menstruation, mood changes, and hot flashes — talk with your healthcare provider about hormone therapy options.

Stress 

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed can put us in fight or flight mode. When we put ourselves in this constant state of heightened awareness, it triggers the release of cortisol. Cortisol inhibits the production of the hormones that induce sex drive. Try adding some stress management practices into your daily routine such as deep breathing exercises and meditation. It also helps get support from your partner, friends and family, and counseling services or groups.

Chronic pain or headaches

Studies show that those who suffer from chronic pain may be more likely to take sex off the menu. The issue is complex, and some key factors may include the inability to have sex due to pain, medication side effects, or depressive symptoms that may arise due to the pain.

Too much or too little exercise

Not getting enough exercise can lead to a range of chronic health issues that affect your desire for sex. Conversely, exercising too much can cause you to produce fewer sexual hormones, which can sideline your sex drive. Try to find a healthy balance of exercise and rest during the week.

Missing connection

If you’re not feeling it with your partner, you’re less likely to dive between the sheets. You may have mismatched libidos or underlying relationship issues that get in the way of having a healthy sex life. It may also be an issue of asking for what you want in bed. When you’re not getting anything from the experience, you are less likely to want more.

Low confidence

Though many women report feeling more confident as they get older, this isn’t always the case. Life changes, body changes, or relationship changes may affect how you feel about yourself. Invite your partner into the conversation and talk to them about how you’re feeling. You may need to rethink ways to make you feel sexy again. 

Ask for support  

Keep an open line of communication with your partner and healthcare providers. You don’t need to suffer in silence, and with the right support, you can rekindle your love of sex and get the spark back.