What causes low libido in men and women?
Low libido has multiple drivers: low testosterone (both sexes), perimenopause, thyroid dysfunction, SSRIs, sleep deprivation, relationship factors, and chronic stress. Hormonal workup is foundational.
Full answer
Low libido is a multi-factor symptom, not a single diagnosis. The provider-reviewed workup screens hormones (total and free testosterone in both sexes, estradiol, progesterone, SHBG, prolactin), thyroid (TSH, Free T4), metabolic (fasting insulin, A1C), and medication review (especially SSRIs and beta-blockers). Sleep architecture, chronic stress, relationship dynamics, and depression also contribute and require separate evaluation. Hormone optimization addresses the biochemical component when present, but is one input among several, not a universal solution.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
- Sexual health — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-05-29