What is sex drive?
Sexual desire, also known as libido, is a person's natural desire and interest in sexual activity. Sex drive is influenced by biological, psychological and social factors, emotional states, societal norms and the body's hormones. Sexual desire varies from person to person and over time and is an individual experience that may deviate from stereotypical gender patterns.
Which hormones are important and can affect our sex drive?
Hormones play an important role in sexual desire in both women and men, but there are differences in the specific hormones that affect sexual desire. Here are the main hormones that affect sexual desire:
Testosterone
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone and has a significant role in sexual desire in both men and women. In men, testosterone is linked to libido and sexual performance. Women also have testosterone, but in much smaller amounts, and this also has an impact on women's sexual desire.
Estrogen and progesterone
Estrogen and progesterone are the primary female sex hormones. Estrogen contributes to vaginal moisture and sexual response in women. Progesterone also plays a role in sexual desire and can affect hormonal balance during the menstrual cycle.
Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone primarily known to stimulate breast milk production in lactating women. High levels of prolactin can reduce sexual desire in both men and women.
Oxytocin
Oxytocin, sometimes called the "love hormone", is released during sexual activity and intimacy. It helps create feelings of connection and trust between sexual partners.
You will find the markers that we at Testmottagningen can offer under this article.
What can I do if I suspect that my sex drive is affected by my hormones?
If you notice that your sex drive has decreased and if you suspect that it may be your hormones that are playing havoc, it may be an idea to test your levels of hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, prolactin and oxytocin. By examining these hormones, you can get a better picture of any imbalances and how they can be best managed.
However, it is important to remember that sexual desire is a personal and complex experience. Hormonal levels are one of several factors that can affect your sexual desire, and an imbalance is not always the only explanation. Psychological and social factors, your health, your relationships and your lifestyle also play a significant role in how you feel and react sexually. It is important that you take into account an overall picture in order to fully understand your situation.
