What Biology Says Could be the Reason for Low Sex Drive

The concept of libido, which encompasses one's sexual desire, drive, and overall interest in sexual activity, is a term that's widely recognized. In this discussion, however, we'll set aside the explicit connotations often associated with it and delve into the scientific aspects that underpin our understanding of sexual desire.

Libido can vary significantly from one person to another, and it is important to know that having a lower desire for sex isn't inherently abnormal but this can be influenced by various factors which can be Biological, psychological and social reason. Cases of low level of testosterone and estrogen can decrease the desire for sexual desires.

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One of the key players in the realm of sexual desire is testosterone, a hormone of great importance for both men and women, albeit in varying quantities. In men, it is primarily produced in the testes and adrenal glands, while in women, it originates from the ovaries and adrenal gland. Testosterone plays a pivotal role in shaping sexual interest and arousal. A decrease in testosterone levels can lead to a reduction in sexual desire. However, testosterone doesn't operate in isolation; estrogen, another fundamental sex hormone, wields its influence on sexual desire in women. Fluctuations or deficiencies in estrogen levels can also have a profound impact on sexual desire.

In females during pregnancy, there are significant hormonal fluctuation that occurs during pregnancy and after child birth. At this point, women might want to have sexual desire and might also lose their interest due to hormones in pregnancy, and increase in birth canal after childbirth leading to pain and discomfort.

Another factor worth considering is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder characterized by imbalances in reproductive hormones. PCOS can affect sexual desires and functions. To understand this condition, we need to explore the intricacies of the menstrual cycle. It all begins with the brain producing Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), which travels to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland responds by releasing Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). These hormones journey to the ovaries, kick-starting the maturation of multiple follicles, which, in turn, release estrogen, leading to the thickening of the uterine lining. Eventually, a dominant follicle emerges, producing an egg.

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PCOS is a constellation of symptoms, and the causes are not entirely understood. In a human menstrual cycle, the brain makes a hormone GnRH which travels to the pituitary gland. The gland then releases follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone. The hormones then travel to the ovaries which causes about 6 to 12 follicles to begin to mature which causes them to release estrogen hormone which causes the lining of the uterus to begin to build up. The dominant follicle moves to the edge of the ovary to produce an egg.

In the case of PCOS, a primary abnormality comes into play, characterized by an abnormal release of GnRH at a higher pulse frequency. This, in turn, results in an increase in LH relative to FSH, causing immature follicles to become functional but not to ovulate. Consequently, a corpus luteum, a key player in the menstrual cycle, is not formed.

At older age when menopause is reached, the desire of women for have sexual intercourse diminishes. Also there is a reduced blood flow to to the pelvic region and vaginal dryness, and this contributes to discomfort during sexual activity as well as decreased libido.

Understanding libido involves knowing the important interplay of various biological, psychological, and social factors. It is a highly individualized aspect of human sexuality that can be influenced by a range of factors throughout a person's life, from hormones and pregnancy-related changes to conditions like PCOS and the natural aging process. Recognizing and addressing these factors can help individuals navigate the understanding of sexual desires in humans.

Reference

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/libido
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526128/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4233312/
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• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5994393/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6676075/
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