Hormones and Desire: What You Should Know
Hormones influence desire, arousal and mood in complex ways. Understanding them helps explain changes over time.
Hormones play an important role in desire and sexual function, but they are only one part of a complicated picture that also includes emotions, relationships and circumstances. Understanding their influence can help explain changes you notice in yourself or a partner.
Testosterone
Testosterone influences desire in people of all genders, not only men. Levels vary considerably between individuals and may change with age, stress, illness and certain medications. Low levels can contribute to reduced libido and fatigue, but testosterone is rarely the whole story.
Oestrogen
Oestrogen affects vaginal health, natural lubrication and elasticity, as well as mood and energy. Falling levels during perimenopause and menopause can lead to dryness and discomfort that affect desire indirectly.
Progesterone
Progesterone levels rise and fall across the menstrual cycle and may influence mood, energy and libido. Many people notice their desire varies at different points in their cycle.
Stress hormones
Cortisol and other stress hormones prepare the body for challenge rather than pleasure. Ongoing stress can suppress desire and make arousal more difficult.
Thyroid hormones
An underactive or overactive thyroid can affect energy, mood, weight and libido. Thyroid problems are common and usually straightforward to test for.
Prolactin and other factors
Less commonly, other hormonal conditions can affect desire and function. A doctor can investigate if symptoms suggest a hormonal cause.
Hormonal contraception
Some people notice changes in desire, mood or lubrication when using hormonal contraception, while others notice no change at all. If you are concerned, discuss alternatives with a GP.
Hormones are not everything
Relationship satisfaction, self-esteem, tiredness, health and circumstances all influence desire. Addressing these can be as important as any hormonal treatment.
Seek medical advice
If you notice a significant or distressing change, a GP can assess hormonal and other possible causes and discuss appropriate options.
Understanding hormones helps you approach changes with knowledge rather than worry.
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