Role of Androgens on Men's Sex Drive
Androgens play an important role in stimulating and maintaining male sexual function. Testosterone is necessary for normal libido, ejaculation and spontaneous erections.
Low sex drive in men often results when there are irregularities in the production of androgens (male hormones). Low testosterone levels in men (a common symptom of andropause) leads to insufficient levels of androgens available to stimulate a man's sex drive and induce erectile function.
Other Factors Contributing to Low Sex Drive in Men
Sex drive and hormonal imbalance may attributed to one or a combination of physical or psychological factors. These include:
- Lifestyle (smoking, drinking, drugs, lack of exercise)
- Psychological (stress, anxiety, depression)
- Disease (diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity)
- Use of certain medications (antidepressants, antihypertensives, antiepileptics)
Low Sex Drive in Women
Decreased female sex drive can also be caused by a variety of different factors. Working with a medical professional who specializes in female sexual dysfunction increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Low sex drive in women can be treated through a variety of different treatments including hormone therapy.