Low libido in men.
When desire drops in men, there is usually a reason. Most reasons need a doctor to identify. This page describes what is generally known so you know what to ask about.
Men talk about low libido less than women do. The data say it is more common than the cultural script suggests.
Most cases have a cause that doctors can identify. This page describes the common ones so you know what to ask about. The actual workup is a clinical conversation, not something to figure out alone.
Sources listed at the bottom of this page.
What “low libido” means here
We mean a real, ongoing drop in desire that bothers you. Not a slow week. Not a stretch where life is hard. A pattern that has lasted months, where you used to want sex and now do not.
If that fits you, see a doctor. The workup is straightforward. The answer is often there.
What doctors look at
These are the categories of cause your doctor will likely consider.
Hormonal
Testosterone levels can be measured with a simple blood draw. If your levels are low, your doctor will discuss what to do. This is a clinical conversation. Do not start anything on your own.
Medications
Several common medications can lower libido as a side effect. If your low desire started around when you started a medication, mention that to your prescriber. Sometimes there are alternatives.
Sleep, stress, and lifestyle
Poor sleep, ongoing stress, and significant extra weight all reduce desire in men. The stamina page covers this in more detail.
Relationship and life context
Sometimes desire drops because of an unaddressed issue with a partner or in life. A sex therapist or couples therapist can help with this side. The mismatched libido page is also worth reading if your partner has a higher baseline desire.
What we know from research
Studies of men with persistent low desire find that most cases have a medical or medication contributor that a doctor can identify. Pure psychological low desire with no medical contributor is the minority. That is why a clinical visit is the right first step, not couples therapy.
Where to start
Run these in order. The first three are doctor visits. Step four is a separate conversation.
See your primary doctor
Bring up low libido directly. Ask for a blood panel that includes hormone levels and a metabolic workup. The lab visit is short and the data answers most questions.
Audit medications with your prescriber
List every medication. Ask if any could be contributing. Do not stop or change anything on your own.
Address sleep and lifestyle
Sleep, weight, alcohol, exercise. If any are clearly off, work on them. Effects show up over a few months.
See a sex therapist if needed
If the medical side is clear and your desire has not returned, an AASECT-certified sex therapist can help with the relational and psychological pieces.