Sexual intimacy is an integral part of a relationship and almost as imperative as trust and communication to sustain and enhance that relationship between two people. It is associated with feelings of love, romance, emotions, affection and most importantly commitment to each other. Sex helps bond relationships further and creates a broader sense of intimacy in a loving relationship. However, lack of intimacy with a partner can be a source of frustration and anxiety in both men and women. This can create feelings of rejection in a person and can develop feelings of self-doubt in them. Further, It can increase a gap between a couple which in the long run can cause irreparable damage to their relationship. Hence, It is very important for a person to know and understand what can be the probable causes of low sexual desire in their respective partners. Listed below are a few causes: 

1. Stress

Studies indicate that stress can be a major reason for decreased sex drive in people especially, in men. Stress at home, at work or any kind of stress that may have a huge impact on a person, can leave them exhausted. This can make sleep or any other way to unwind and relax more appealing compared to sex which can feel like a chore for that person at that time.

2. Unresolved conflicts

Problems and unresolved issues in a relationship can make your partner withdraw themselves emotionally and show less affection. If one feels disrespected, unappreciated, criticized or feels let down by their partner, it may put a strain on intimacy.

3. Emotional intimacy

Lack of emotional intimacy can be a reason for a lack of sexual intimacy too. Be it a man or a woman, feeling disconnected from your partner can make it hard to connect during sex or enjoy it. Spending quality time together can help build emotional intimacy and ultimately bring back physical intimacy.

4. Depression

Depression is a serious illness that interferes with all aspects of your life, including your sex life. It is not the same as feeling sad for a short while as that is temporary and fades away with time. If your libido has been low for an extended time, and if it’s causing you stress or sadness, it might be time to talk to your doctor.

5. Self-Esteem

Body image issues and low self-esteem affect both men and women. If a person doesn’t feel confident in their skin and feels unattractive it can take a toll on their relationships, particularly when it comes to physical intimacy because it leads to inhibitions. In such a case, complimenting your partner and showing patience and understanding can help your partner feel more comfortable about themselves.

6. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalance can compromise your sex life by affecting your energy, physical sensitivity and desire. The three main hormones that could be affecting sexual desire are estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels. The hormonal imbalances found in menopause, pre-menopause and post-menopause can result in the decline of sexual drive in women. If it persists it’s best to visit a health professional for proper guidance.

7. Rejection

Rejection by your partner in earlier times can lead to a lack of sexual intimacy. If you have ignored and turned down sexual advances from your partner in the past, it can make your partner feel unwanted and can put them off intimacy. This can make them distant and not initiate sex.

Sexual intimacy plays a major role in any relationship/marriage. When there is a lack of sexual intimacy it makes the couple less satisfied with each other. Seeking help from a professional marriage counsellor or relationship expert can be beneficial in understanding your issues and guiding you to work it out together.

Dr Nisha Khanna as a Relationship/Marriage Counsellor proffers online, telephonically and face to face Counselling Services. If you are living in Delhi, India or any other part of World, you can approach us through any of these mediums. For further details visit Bye Tense, or call us at +91-9312730331