Men's Sexual Health: A Guide to Causes and Treatments for Low Libido

Of course, it's normal if one person's interest sometimes does not match their partner's interest.

However, low libido over a long period of time can cause serious concern and sometimes this situation can be an indicator of overall health.

Ivan Vlasov project creator

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What Affects Libido in Men

Below is a list of factors, including hormones, that can affect the libido levels in men.

Testosterone or DHT?

The androgenic activity of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is significantly higher than that of testosterone—especially in the genital area and CNS, so it is DHT that has a decisive influence on libido.

It is very important to remember that only free testosterone converts to DHT.

Also, the level of DHT is determined by the amount of 5-alpha-reductase: the more there is, the more free testosterone can convert to DHT.

Dopamine

Increasing dopamine levels in the brain can lead to increased libido. Moreover, scientists suggest that increasing dopamine levels can also lead to spontaneous erections, and see it as a remedy for erectile dysfunction.

Progesterone

If a man's blood has too much progesterone, the level of DHT can drop to almost zero, and you understand how this will affect libido. At the same time, the level of estradiol will rise, which means that the secretion of testosterone will slow down.

Prolactin

Even approaching the upper allowable limit of prolactin can significantly weaken sexual desire and deal a severe blow to erections. However, too low a level of prolactin is no better in this regard.

Cortisol

Cortisol also affects libido—not only in men but also in women. Moreover, men with constantly elevated cortisol levels may also experience erection problems.

Effects of Medications

Primarily finasteride and dutasteride. Ketoconazole, propranolol, and metoprolol can also significantly reduce libido.

Chronic Prostatitis

Chronic inflammation of the prostate gland has many unpleasant consequences. One of the most serious is the impairment of sexual function and the process of sperm production in the testicles.

Conclusion

To summarize: to increase libido, we need to raise the level of free testosterone, as well as try to stimulate the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.

At the same time, we should eliminate factors that reduce libido—too high or excessively low levels of prolactin, elevated levels of cortisol and progesterone, certain medications, and chronic inflammation of the prostate gland.