Emotional fulfilment and physical intimacy are two essential aspects of relationships. Sometimes, however, a low sex drive can get in the way of your sex life. 

There are several potential explanations for this, but it may be a sign of a severe health issue that needs to be investigated. Our sex life as men can be affected by many factors – mental and physical characteristics and certain chronic conditions.

However, the inability to have or enjoy sex is usually a common symptom of sexual dysfunction. One or more forms of sexual dysfunction may result from any medical condition that interferes with blood flow to the penis. Sexual dysfunction can also be an early indicator of a more significant health issue.

Perhaps, you often mistake external factors, like age or health, for sexual dysfunction. Chronic health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and other long-term health issues can play a role in erectile dysfunction. On the other hand, your mental health may affect your sexual performance as well. And all these health conditions should not be taken lightly.

Mental Health Conditions

Depression.

Tiredness, low self-esteem, low energy, and low sex drive are all common symptoms of depression.

As your libido decreases, you probably aren't as interested in having sex, making it harder for your brain to get an erection. In response, you might isolate yourself from people who once brought you joy, including your partner.  All of these conditions can have severe consequences for your sexual health.

Anxiety.

Other mental health issues like anxiety and stress can also trigger erectile dysfunction.  Low sex drive is also associated with both depression and anxiety disorders. When you have fear, it can divert attention away from sexual stimuli. This is why stress can sabotage the natural progression of sex drive. 

Lifestyle Habits

Smoking.

Heart disease is just one of many illnesses made more likely by smoking. The risk of erectile dysfunction in men is increased when you smoke. Cigarette smoke contains toxins that can harm sperm count and affect your fertility. 

If you're a smoker, quitting can significantly lessen the likelihood that you'll experience any of these problems with your sexual or reproductive health. Consult your primary care physician or the local health department for assistance if you're a smoker having trouble quitting independently. Additionally, you can consult friends or relatives who have quit smoking and ask for tips. 

Alcohol Consumption .

Constant or excessive drinking can negatively impact your sexual health. As a result, it interferes with the body's natural testosterone production. You may also notice a reduction in chest and facial hair. The worst case scenario is that too much alcohol can do to you is leading you to the possibility of having risky sex behaviours like not using protection.

Chronic Health Conditions

Diabetes.

Consistently high blood sugar is known to have serious adverse effects on health. Having sex increases blood flow all over the body, including the reproductive system. If you have trouble controlling your blood sugar, diabetes can cause long-term damage to vital nerves and blood vessels – blocking the blood flow to the penis. 

This is why diabetes dramatically increases the risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction. If you have diabetes, you also risk developing erectile dysfunction at a younger age. To prevent this and other complications associated with diabetes, it is essential to maintain outstanding control over blood sugar levels, which can be done by adopting a healthy diet. 

Support and Treatment 

The good news is that these health conditions can be treated. If you deal with mental health issues, mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, and sex therapists, can offer guidance on how to deal with symptoms and improve sexual well-being. Try mindfulness and meditation classes like yoga and breathing exercises to improve mental health. 

It is crucial to address your health issues, not just for your sexual health but for your overall well-being, no matter what kind of support or treatment you choose. 

Exercising also has the added benefit of making your sexual life all for the better. Also, if you engage in regular physical activity, you will experience enhanced overall health and quality of life. Try to exercise for 30 minutes every day regularly, and you will notice an improvement. 

Final Words

Your overall physical and mental well-being influences the state of your sexual health. A wide range of medical conditions and medications can cause sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction may be an early indicator of a more severe health issue. If you want better sexual health, you must treat these conditions first.

It's understandable if consulting your problems in bed makes you uncomfortable. However, a professional doctor is used to discussing sex as it is a normal part of life and issues like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation are very common. They will be available to discuss your condition, your concerns, and the available treatments with you in complete privacy.

Sexual health issues should not be disregarded. Sexual dysfunction and overall health can benefit from general health improvements like weight and fat loss, hypertension control, and cholesterol reduction. This means that improved health may also result in enhanced sexual performance.

Your sex life and overall quality of life can be enhanced by adopting a healthier lifestyle and addressing any underlying conditions. You should still talk to a professional if you're experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, or depression – even if they aren't affecting your sex life.