Less interest in sex rarely comes from one thing. Often your hormones, your head and your lifestyle all play a part. On the hormonal side we usually look at your testosterone, your SHBG and sometimes your prolactin. A blood test shows the hormonal part, not the whole story.
And yes, this is a conversation many men prefer to postpone. Needlessly, because libido is simply a health signal.
What sets your interest in sex?
Libido is an interplay of hormones, mood, relationship, stress and sleep. Testosterone plays a role, but a low libido doesn't automatically mean a low testosterone, and the other way around just as much. So the picture is only complete once you look at more than one thing.
An honest note: stress and poor sleep often dampen drive harder than men think.
Which hormones and blood values play a role?
For less interest in sex a few values are interesting. None proves the cause on its own, together they sketch a picture.
- Testosterone. A low testosterone can go with less drive. Measure in the morning.
- Free testosterone and SHBG. Free testosterone is the part your body can use directly; SHBG partly sets how much that is.
- Prolactin. A raised prolactin can affect drive and erection.
In a large study of men, sexual complaints went together with a low testosterone (Wu, 2010). How testosterone and drive relate is covered in libido and testosterone.
When is less drive a reason to look?
If it lasts weeks to months, or other complaints join in such as fatigue or erection problems, then measuring and discussing it with your GP is reasonable. A sudden change deserves attention sooner than a gradual one.
Are your morning erections gone or are there erection problems at a young age? We cover those separately.
Private and on your own time
Your libido is personal. A blood test can be done calmly and confidentially, so you go into the conversation with your GP informed. You set the pace yourself.
Getting started
The Testosterone Panel maps your testosterone and SHBG. For a broader hormonal view, the Men's Hormones panel looks at more values at once.
References
- Wu FCW, Tajar A, Beynon JM, et al. Identification of late-onset hypogonadism in middle-aged and elderly men. N Engl J Med. 2010;363(2):123-135. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa0911101.
- Harman SM, et al. Longitudinal effects of aging on serum total and free testosterone levels. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2001;86(2):724-731. PMID: 11158037.
- NHG-Standaard Erectile dysfunction (biology). Dutch College of General Practitioners.
Disclaimer
Caliberhealth works with BIG-registered doctors who assess your blood results. This article gives general information and is not a substitute for medical advice from a GP or specialist. A blood test is a tool, not a diagnosis in itself. For serious symptoms, contact your GP, or in an emergency call 112.
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