What Causes Low Libido in Men and Women?

Hormone Replacement Therapy

If you feel disconnected from your partner, frustrated with your body, or confused about why your sex drive disappeared, you’re not alone. For men and women between 30 and 60, low libido is often linked to hormone imbalance symptoms, and that’s something you can test and treat.

Here’s the short answer:

Hormones matter: Low testosterone or estrogen can directly reduce sex drive.
Lifestyle counts: Stress, sleep loss, and weight gain affect libido.
Medical issues exist: Thyroid problems, depression, or medications may lower desire.
Energy drives desire: When you’re exhausted, intimacy is often the last thing on your mind.

Let’s break it down.

Can Low Testosterone or Estrogen Reduce Sex Drive?

Yes, and it’s one of the most common low libido causes. Hormones control desire, arousal, mood, and energy. When levels drop, sex drive often drops with them.

Low testosterone and sex drive in men

Testosterone fuels more than muscle. It directly impacts:

Sexual desire: Lower levels reduce spontaneous interest in sex.
Erections: Testosterone supports healthy erectile function.
Confidence: Hormone shifts can affect mood and drive.
Energy levels: Fatigue makes intimacy feel like work.

According to the Mayo Clinic, low testosterone can cause reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and low energy.

If you’re noticing fatigue, belly weight gain, brain fog, and less interest in sex, it may be time to explore Testosterone Replacement Therapy.

Low estrogen and libido in women

Estrogen plays a key role in female sexual health. Low estrogen and libido issues can show up as:

Vaginal dryness: Making intimacy uncomfortable.
Lower arousal: Reduced physical response.
Mood changes: Irritability or anxiety.
Sleep disruption: Which further lowers desire.

The Cleveland Clinic notes that hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause often affect sexual desire.

Women experiencing these changes may benefit from Estrogen Therapy as part of a personalized hormone optimization plan.

What Lifestyle Factors Affect Libido?

Not all low libido in men and women is hormonal, but lifestyle strongly affects hormones.

Here are the major contributors:

Chronic stress: High cortisol suppresses sex hormones.
Poor sleep: Less than 6–7 hours can lower testosterone.
Weight gain: Body fat impacts hormone balance.
Alcohol overuse: Can blunt sexual response.
Relationship strain: Emotional distance reduces desire.

If you’re constantly tired, overwhelmed, or burned out, your body shifts into survival mode. Sexual desire is not a priority in survival mode.

That’s why hormone optimization works best alongside lifestyle improvements. At True Test, treatment plans often combine testing, medical therapy, and practical health strategies.

When Is Low Libido a Sign of a Hormonal Issue?

Here’s how to know if your low sex drive may be hormone-related. You may have a hormone imbalance if you also notice:

Persistent fatigue: Even after full nights of sleep.
Mood swings: Anxiety, depression, or irritability.
Weight changes: Especially increased belly fat.
Brain fog: Trouble focusing or remembering.
Loss of motivation: Not just in sex, but in life.

Low libido rarely shows up alone. It’s often one piece of a bigger hormone puzzle.

If sex drive loss came on gradually over months or years, especially after 35, hormone testing is worth considering.

How Hormone Therapy Can Restore Sexual Health

When testing confirms low testosterone or estrogen, treatment can help restore balance.

Potential benefits of hormone optimization:

Stronger desire: Increased natural interest in intimacy.
Better energy: So sex doesn’t feel exhausting.
Improved mood: Confidence and emotional connection return.
Enhanced performance: Better physical response.

Sexual health treatment isn’t just about sex. It’s about feeling like yourself again.

When your hormones are balanced, relationships often improve. Frustration eases. Confidence comes back. And the connection feels natural again.

If you’re feeling disconnected from your partner or frustrated with your body, the next step is clarity.

Schedule Your Consultation Now

FAQs

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) FAQs

What are early signs for hormonal imbalance?

Common early clues are lower energy, poor sleep, mood shifts, low sex drive, brain fog, and small but steady weight gain. Women may notice hot flashes or cycle changes. Men may notice motivation and performance changes.

How often should I retest?

It depends on your plan. Many people retest after a few weeks or months to see progress and adjust.

Can diet and exercise fix it?

Sometimes, yes—especially if symptoms are mild and driven by stress or sleep issues. If symptoms are stronger or long‑lasting, a medical plan may help.

Is this a one‑size‑fits‑all program?

No. Your plan is based on your symptoms, history, hormonal test results, and your goals.

Are there guarantees?

No. Bodies are unique. We’ll set realistic steps and watch your progress together.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) FAQs

Do I need labs before starting TRT?

Yes. A provider confirms Low T with symptoms and repeat morning labs before therapy.

Could I raise testosterone levels without medication?

Sometimes. Sleep, resistance training, body fat reduction, and stress care can support healthy levels. Your provider can help you choose a path.

Will TRT help erectile function?

It can help some men, especially when Low T is part of the picture. Other erectile dysfunction treatments may be discussed if needed.

How long will I be on TRT?

It varies. Many men stay on therapy while benefits outweigh risks and goals are being met, with regular check‑ins.

What happens if I stop?

Levels return toward your baseline. Your provider can guide a safe plan if you choose to discontinue.