November 26, 2025, 2:50 am | Read time: 6 minutes

“The term libido describes a person’s inner sexual desire. Medically, testosterone is the main focus for men, as it is the most important male sex hormone and plays a significant role in the development of desire, motivation, and arousal,” explains Dr. Pies. “But libido is never just a hormonal issue. It arises from a combination of physical impulses and psychological and social factors.”

Is loss of libido in men synonymous with erectile dysfunction?

Although both topics are often mentioned in the same breath, they are medically distinct. Erectile dysfunction means that an erection of the penis cannot be adequately achieved or maintained. Loss of libido, on the other hand, describes a lack of or significantly reduced sexual interest. A man can have a stable erection but feel no desire. Conversely, erection difficulties can occur despite high libido. Dr. Pies emphasizes the interplay, stating, “Both areas influence each other. Those who fear failure often lose their natural access to desire. And those who feel no desire often develop erection problems because the inner motivation is missing.”

Also interesting: What happens in a man’s body when he hasn’t had sex for a long time

When is libido considered normal and when is it reduced?

There is no universal definition of “normal” libido. Desire is individual, cyclical, and heavily dependent on life context. Many men, for example, experience more desire on vacation than in a stressful work environment and more in happy relationship phases than in times of crisis. Reduced libido is usually discussed when the decline lasts for several weeks to months, feels unusual and burdensome, or leads to tension in the partnership. The subjective feeling is always decisive. If you rarely have sexual thoughts or fantasies or if your sexual desire suddenly seems almost nonexistent, it is worth taking a closer look.

Possible causes of libido loss

Physical causes

“Hormonal changes, especially a declining testosterone level with age, are among the most common physical reasons for a decrease in libido,” says Dr. Pies. “Chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorders can significantly reduce desire because they impair circulation, nerve functions, and physical performance. In addition, certain medications, such as some antidepressants or blood pressure medications, can lower libido as a side effect. Sleep deprivation should not be underestimated, as it disrupts hormonal balance and leads to physical exhaustion, which can significantly reduce sexual desire.”

Psychological and emotional causes

Those who are permanently overworked or have no phases of regeneration often lose the inner sense of desire and intimacy, even if everything is physically fine. Depression or emotional exhaustion often lead to a decline in desire because drive, self-esteem, and emotional presence diminish. Performance pressure or the fear of “failing” in bed can also massively dampen libido.

Lifestyle-related causes

Alcohol and nicotine consumption, lack of exercise, and an unbalanced diet directly affect your energy level and circulation. A high body fat percentage also promotes hormonal imbalances that can reduce sexual desire.

Social factors

Conflicts in the partnership, lack of emotional closeness, communication problems, or uncertainty about needs and expectations can block your desire for sexuality. Similarly, routine and lack of variety in sex often make it more of a duty than a pleasure.

Sexual experiences

Sexual insecurities and traumatic or negative experiences can also affect libido. Those who have had little opportunity to learn about their own desires and fantasies throughout their lives often feel less sexual desire.

Also interesting: Why it’s good to have sex in old age–and what to watch out for

What helps if your libido has already decreased?

Stress reduction

It often helps to restructure your daily routine, reduce stressors, or consciously plan times for relaxation.

Emotional connection without pressure

Many couples benefit from allowing more physical closeness again, without it immediately leading to sex. A relaxed evening, a massage, or a shared experience can strengthen emotional connection.

Stimulate imagination

Sometimes a small external impulse helps to rekindle your own desire, such as erotic magazines, films, or a toy that piques your curiosity.

Better not: Potency drugs

“Well-known preparations like Viagra or Levitra are not helpful for loss of libido, as they improve blood flow to the penis and support erection but do not increase sexual desire. Additional internal pressure can even arise because the body ‘can,’ but the mind does not ‘want.’ Moreover, over-the-counter remedies can be dangerous, as they often contain insufficiently tested active ingredients, incorrect dosages, or even harmful substances,” warns Dr. Pies.

When a doctor’s visit is advisable

If your loss of libido persists for several months, you feel uncomfortable with this change, or if additional erection problems, emotional exhaustion, or physical complaints occur, a doctor’s visit is advisable. The family doctor is a good first point of contact and can refer you to a urologist, endocrinologist, or sex therapist, depending on the findings.

Also interesting: Certain sports are almost as effective as Viagra for erectile dysfunction

Can libido disappear permanently?

“Libido completely and irrevocably disappears only in very rare cases after certain medical procedures or in severe neurological diseases. Usually, there is a treatable cause behind it. Once the trigger is found and treated, desire generally returns gradually,” explains Dr. Pies.

More on the topic

Urologist Explains How Aging Affects Male Genitalia

Urologist Explains What Happens in a Man’s Body When He Goes Without Sex for a Long Time

Is it true that …

… libido automatically decreases with age?

Not necessarily, as many men remain sexually active even in old age. More important for libido than a declining testosterone level are factors such as stress, illness, or lifestyle.

… men always have a higher libido than women?

Libido is not a gender-specific factor but an individual feeling. Both men and women are subject to hormonal fluctuations, life situations, and emotional influences that can increase or dampen desire.

… masturbation lowers libido?

The opposite is true, as regular masturbation can help recognize and better perceive personal preferences and one’s own desire.

Conclusion

Lack of desire has many causes, and the ways to prevent it are just as varied. Regular exercise not only strengthens your body but also reduces stress, one of the biggest desire killers. Good sleep is equally important, as hormones and the brain regenerate at night, creating the foundation for healthy sexual desire. Your diet can also make a difference, as nutrients like zinc, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D support natural hormone production. Lastly, the emotional side counts. Open communication, small daily rituals, and physical closeness without pressure of expectation promote connection and thus desire. By keeping an eye on both your body and relationship, you give your libido the best chance to remain stable and vibrant.