Loss of libido due to stress: causes and how to regain sexual desire
Published: 7/27/2026
A lack of libido is an increasingly common concern amongst both men and women. Although we tend to associate it with hormonal changes or the natural ageing process, one of the factors that most influences a decline in sexual desire is stress. In this article, we explain the cause, the link between stress and libido, and what you can do to restore your desire naturally.
What is libido?
Libido refers to the sexual desire experienced by human beings – both men and women – which drives them to seek intimacy and sexual connection with others. It varies over time and from one individual to another, and is essential from both a physical and emotional perspective.
Why does stress reduce sexual desire?
Stress alters your mood and reduces your energy levels, which may be directly linked to this decline; however, this is not the only reason why stress lowers libido. It also raises cortisol – the stress hormone – which interferes with many bodily functions, including sexual function.
Cortisol and libido
When we go through prolonged periods of stress, cortisol levels remain elevated relative to other hormones that act as precursors to sex hormones. The result is a hormonal imbalance, affecting desire, energy levels and even sexual response.
How can you tell if a lack of libido is due to stress?
When a decrease in sexual desire is caused by stress, it is usually accompanied by other physical and emotional symptoms resulting from prolonged stress. Some signs that may indicate that stress is affecting your libido include:
- A constant feeling of tiredness or fatigue
- Difficulty switching off from work or daily worries
- Irritability or frequent mood swings
- Difficulty falling asleep or restful sleep
- A reduced interest in sex, even when you still feel attracted to your partner
- Difficulty concentrating or a feeling that your mind is always busy
- Reduced enjoyment of activities that were previously pleasurable
In these cases, the problem is not usually just a lack of sexual desire, but rather that the body is in a state of constant alert. When this happens, the brain prioritises functions related to stress management over others, such as sexual desire.
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Other causes of low libido
Although stress is one of the main factors that reduces sexual desire, it is not the only one, and in many cases, several factors are at play simultaneously. Below, we explain why sexual desire decreases.
- Low libido in women
In women, a decrease in sexual desire may be linked to hormonal changes typical of certain stages of life, such as the menopause, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Certain hormonal contraceptives, specific medications, vaginal dryness or emotional issues such as anxiety and depression can also play a part.
- Low libido in men
In men, a decrease in sexual desire may be linked to falling testosterone levels associated with: age, anxiety, fatigue, certain chronic conditions, or the use of specific medicines, such as some antidepressants or antihypertensives.
Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption or lack of rest can also have a negative impact on sexual desire in both men and women.
How to boost libido and what to take for a lack of libido
Identifying the cause is essential to determining the most appropriate course of action and restoring sexual wellbeing. When a lack of libido is linked to stress or lifestyle, small changes to daily habits can make a big difference.
- Adequate rest
- Regular physical exercise
- Eating a balanced diet
- Communication with your partner
- Identifying and trying to reduce stressors
When these measures are not enough, certain dietary supplements can provide support as part of a holistic approach. A good example of a supplement to boost libido in women is:
- MusaVigor: formulated to support women’s wellbeing and vitality, particularly for those experiencing a decrease in sexual desire linked to stress, tiredness or the changes associated with certain stages of life. It contains maca and damiana, which help to stimulate sexual desire, as well as ashwagandha, which helps maintain a state of relaxation, and Ginkgo Biloba, which promotes mental balance and helps improve sexual function. It also helps reduce fatigue thanks to its zinc oxide and B-complex vitamin content.
Remember that if a loss of libido occurs suddenly, persists for several months or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain during sexual intercourse, hormonal imbalances or erectile dysfunction, it is advisable to consult a specialist healthcare professional to assess the cause and receive the most appropriate treatment.
