Seeking psychological help remains a challenge for many men, especially when the reason is related to sexual difficulties. One of the main causes of this situation is related to the expectations and stereotypes that society attributes to masculinity. From childhood, many men are raised to repress their emotions and maintain an attitude of strength and invulnerability. Some reinforces the social construct of masculinity, leading many men to be reluctant to seek outside help or acknowledge their psychological and sexual vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, several studies indicate that women are more likely to recognize symptoms that require psychological support, such as depression and anxiety. This is because, from a young age, women are encouraged to talk about their feelings and seek help when needed.
Contrary to popular belief, Hypoactive Sexual Desire, commonly known as "lack of libido" or "lack of sexual desire," is not a problem exclusive to women. However, when the woman experiences a lack of sexual desire, the couple tends to seek help quickly, whereas when it's the man's problem, the symptoms may have been present for several years before the first appointment is scheduled.
Hypoactive sexual desire manifests itself through a persistent or recurrent decrease in interest or initiative in sexual activities and the absence of sexual thoughts or fantasies, significantly affecting the quality of one's own life and that of one's marriage.
The causes of hypoactive sexual desire are multifactorial and involve a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, including:
Biological Factors – These are often associated with hormonal changes, particularly low testosterone levels, but can also be due to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disease. It's important to consider that some hypertension medications and certain antidepressants and antipsychotics can have side effects that affect sexual response, including sexual desire. It's also common to find changes in sexual desire as a consequence of other health problems such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and sleep disorders.
Psychological Factors – High levels of stress and anxiety are common as the main enemies of sexual desire, due to work, personal, or financial issues, depression, and traumatic life experiences. Many men also tend to experience decreased sexual desire as a result of other sexual dysfunctions, such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
Social and relational factors – conflicts, lack of communication and satisfaction in romantic relationships – can also directly impact sexual desire.
This complex set of factors makes treating hypoactive sexual desire, in both men and women, quite challenging for healthcare professionals. In fact, having balanced testosterone levels isn't enough; even with normal values, a lack of sexual desire can occur. Similarly, a conflicted romantic relationship may not directly affect libido.
This leads us to understand that regardless of gender or sexual orientation, it is important for people to recognize that hypoactive sexual desire is not a reflection of a weakness or failure, but a treatable health issue!
There is no point in suffering in silence when there are solutions!
