Understanding Low Libido & Sexual Wellness | Dr. Leveno Plano

Loss of sexual desire is more common than many realize, and it can affect individuals at any stage of life. While society often treats libido as a straightforward issue, the truth is that sexual desire is influenced by a complex interplay of physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. Understanding these influences is the first step toward addressing concerns and regaining a healthy sexual connection with yourself and your partner.

Hormonal Changes and Libido

One of the most significant contributors to low sexual desire is hormonal fluctuation. For women, transitions such as menopause, pregnancy, or postpartum changes can alter estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to reduced libido. Similarly, thyroid imbalances can affect energy, mood, and sexual function. Hormonal contraceptives or other prescribed hormone therapies may also impact sexual desire for some individuals.

Key hormonal factors that can influence libido include:

• Menopause, pregnancy, or postpartum changes – natural shifts in estrogen and progesterone
• Thyroid imbalances – affecting energy, mood, and sexual function
• Hormonal contraceptives or therapies – which may alter sexual desire

Dr. Joseph Leveno, an OBGYN at Medical City Plano, helps patients identify how these hormonal changes might be influencing their sexual health. By evaluating hormone levels and overall reproductive health, he can recommend tailored strategies to restore balance and support sexual wellbeing.

Stress, Mental Health, and Emotional Wellness

Mental health plays a crucial role in sexual desire. Anxiety, depression, including postpartum depression, or chronic stress can significantly reduce libido. When the body is in a constant state of stress, it prioritizes survival over reproduction, leading to a natural decline in sexual interest. Emotional strain, whether from work pressures, family responsibilities, or personal challenges, can further reduce the desire for intimacy.

Addressing mental health alongside physical health is key. Counseling, stress-management techniques, mindfulness practices, and open communication with your partner can help alleviate these barriers. Dr. Leveno often works in conjunction with patients’ mental health providers to ensure a holistic approach to sexual wellness.

Medications and Their Impact

Certain medications may unintentionally lower sexual desire. While these prescriptions are often essential for overall health, some can affect libido as a side effect. It’s important to understand how medications may influence sexual wellness and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider rather than discontinuing them on your own.

Common medications that may impact sexual desire include:

• Antidepressants – which can affect sexual arousal and satisfaction
• Antihypertensives – some blood pressure medications may reduce libido
• Hormonal treatments – including hormone replacement therapy or contraceptives
• Other prescription drugs – various medications can have libido-related side effects

Dr. Leveno can review current prescriptions and, when appropriate, suggest alternatives or supplemental strategies to mitigate these effects while maintaining overall health.

Sleep, Fatigue, and Energy Levels

Quality sleep is vital not only for physical and mental health but also for sexual wellness. Chronic fatigue and poor sleep can lower energy levels and reduce interest in sexual activity. Sleep deprivation can disrupt hormone balance, increase stress, and contribute to mood changes, all of which may negatively affect libido.

In addition to discussing lifestyle changes, Dr. Leveno can provide guidance on sleep hygiene and strategies to boost energy, helping patients feel more alert, relaxed, and connected to their sexual health.

Relationship Factors and Intimacy

Sexual desire is rarely just about biology. Emotional connection, intimacy, and communication are critical components of a healthy sexual relationship. Relationship challenges, unresolved conflicts, or a lack of emotional closeness can reduce desire, even when physical health is optimal.

Couples may benefit from therapy, couples counseling, or guided communication exercises to strengthen emotional bonds. Dr. Leveno emphasizes the importance of considering relationship dynamics as part of a comprehensive approach to sexual wellness.

Taking Action: Personalized Solutions

Low sexual desire is not something you have to accept as inevitable. Whether the cause is hormonal, psychological, lifestyle-related, or a combination, personalized care can make a meaningful difference. Dr. Joseph Leveno at Medical City Plano works with patients to identify root causes and develop individualized plans. This may include hormone evaluation and treatment, lifestyle modifications, stress management strategies, sleep optimization, and communication guidance to improve intimacy and sexual satisfaction.

Understanding your body, your mind, and your relationships allows you to reclaim sexual confidence and pleasure. It’s important to remember that solutions are available, and seeking help is a positive and proactive step.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re experiencing a decline in sexual desire, taking action today can help restore balance and improve quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leveno by calling (972) 596-5821 to discuss personalized strategies for your sexual wellbeing and overall health. With a tailored approach, you can address the underlying factors and take meaningful steps toward renewed intimacy and vitality.