How Testosterone Affects Libido in Men

Testosterone is often referred to as the male sex hormone. And in many ways, it is. This vital chemical in the body plays a key role in many aspects of men’s life and physiology including muscle mass, bone density, energy levels, and libido. For some men experiencing a dip in sexual desire or performance, understanding testosterone may be driving your sexual health can help you take back control over it. A common misunderstanding is that dips in libido are all down to age, but sometimes it’s hormonal.

What Is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles and, in smaller amounts, in the adrenal glands. While women also produce this hormone, this is in much smaller quantities, it does not play the same role in regulating libido as it does in men. Testosterone begins to surge during puberty and peaks in a man’s late teens to early twenties. After the age of around 30-40, levels naturally begin to decline. Typically, this decline looks at about 1% per year.

This decline is completely normal and often will not cause any noticeable problems. For some men, this dip in testosterone release is much more significant and can lead to noticeable symptoms such as decreased sex drive and affected sexual performance.

The Link Between Testosterone and Libido

Libido (your sexual drive) is closely tied to testosterone in that the higher testosterone levels, the higher the libido. Typically. When testosterone dips, significant side effects can include reduced sexual desire, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction), and decreased sexual satisfaction.

It’s important to note that libido is complex, and testosterone is just one piece of the puzzle. Stress, anxiety, poor sleep, relationship issues, and medical conditions can also impact sexual desire and sexual performance. But when testosterone is low, it can amplify all these effects.

What Causes Low Testosterone?

Low testosterone, or hypogonadism (when the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone), can occur for a variety of reasons. Factors such as aging can cause a natural and gradual decline, chronic illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure can all impact testosterone levels and production. Certain medications such as antidepressants and painkillers can contribute to reduced levels of testosterone, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of exercise, and chronic stress can all effect how testosterone is produced in the body.

Are Low Levels Affecting Your Sex Life?

If you’re noticing changes in your libido, energy, or performance in the bedroom, it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional. A simple blood test can determine your testosterone levels and help guide treatment options.

However, it’s worth noting that low levels aren’t the only reason men experience erectile dysfunction, or other sexual dysfunctions. In many cases, the cause may be psychological, due to lifestyle, or due to other circulatory health conditions.

Ways of Boosting Testosterone

While some decline in testosterone is natural with age, certain lifestyle changes can help support healthy levels.

Treating Erectile Dysfunction With or Without Low Testosterone

Whether your hormone levels are normal or low, effective treatment for erectile dysfunction is available. At The Family Chemist, we offer discreet and convenient treatment options shipped directly to your door across the UK.

Or to get clear insights into your hormonal health try one of our easy-to-use Blood Testing Kits. This provides in-depth screening of hormonal health so you can begin to feel in control of your hormones rather than letting them control you.

The Bottom Line

Testosterone plays a significant role in male libido, but it’s not the whole story. If you’re experiencing reduced sex drive or performance issues, it’s important to consider all the possible factors, and seek healthcare advice.

If you’re concerned about ED, low libido, or hormonal levels, reach out and discover our range. Regain control of your sex life.