Sex has a variety of health benefits, but often there are events in life that are not “sexually” interesting. What causes the lack of impulse and desire? Compare the following to see if you can find a clue and miss out on sexual happiness. Our actions are motivated, and there are many factors that can lead to a decrease in libido, so let’s call them “killers”. Killer 1: Tension and stress. Our bodies often react poorly to stress, and emotional stress can affect bodily functions, including libido and sexual performance. Recognizing that we may have underlying stressors is the first step in addressing them. Self-regulation is the first thing that comes to mind, but sometimes we need to use a professional to help us release them. Killer #2: Spouses and partners. Sex is like a tango; it’s a dance for two. Both partners need to just get to the point of caring for each other, and women especially need a sense of closeness. Poor communication, feelings of betrayal, lack of trust, repeated arguments and criticism can lead to a lack of connection and intimacy. How can a duo dance or dance well without a good mindset and cooperation? Killer #3: Indulging in alcohol. Alcohol is not the answer. While drinking alcohol lowers a person’s own inhibitions, it can also have a negative effect on sexual performance and libido. Your partner won’t appreciate a drunken encounter and may shut down the erotic channel as a result. If alcohol becomes an “addiction,” it’s even more destructive and needs to be stopped. Killer #4: Too little sleep. As with other behaviors, sexual performance is better when you are comfortable and relaxed. Lack of sleep or proper sleep plays an accomplice role in poor libido. Some people have sleep apnea, which can lead to poor sleep and lack of libido, and it’s time to turn to your doctor for proper treatment. Killer #5: Having children. Being a parent means having a full-time job and from time to time, you crave the time when your kids aren’t around. Finding quiet, undisturbed intimacy and sexual pleasure requires some creative thinking, such as having a precious “date” when the child is asleep, or having a babysitter. Killer 6: Medications. Certain prescription medications can have the side effect of reducing libido, such as diuretics and beta-blockers in antihypertensive medications, antihistamines and anti-nasal congestion ingredients in cold and flu remedies, antidepressants, birth control pills, narcotic pain relievers, and chemotherapeutic drugs. If they appear after taking the medication, consult your doctor for adjustments. Killer 7: Poor self-esteem. Sexiness is self-perceived, and many people’s sexual urges and desires are compromised by a lack of confidence in their physical appearance. Being happy with yourself and on your own is a priority, and of course, a partner who agrees with you will always promote confidence. Killer 8: Excessive obesity. Obesity is affecting a growing number of people, and being overweight can limit sexual desire through reduced sexual enjoyment, poor sexual performance and poor self-esteem. How you feel about yourself can affect your experience of sexual well-being for a long time. Change is more than just the word weight loss and sometimes requires the assistance of a medical professional. Killer #9: Erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (or ED for short) not only affects the ability to have intercourse, but also involves a man’s evaluation of how he feels about his sexuality. Currently, there are many options for treating ED and they have proven clinical applications. It only makes sense to address it head on and receive appropriate treatment if needed. Killer 10: Hormone decline. Men age while testosterone gradually declines, but there is not necessarily a direct cause and effect between declining testosterone levels and libido. This is only a potential factor when it comes to a decline in libido, and doctors will look for other factors besides this one. Killer 11: Depression. Depression affects all aspects of life, including the sex drive. Lack of interest in life requires treatment such as counseling and medication. However, some antidepressant medications can also reduce libido, and it is important to have your doctor or therapist advise you before taking medication if you are already experiencing low libido. Killer 12: Menopause. The physical changes brought on by menopause can affect intercourse, such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. There are many ways to improve this, from simple application of lubricants, medications, and specialists. We’ve seen so many factors that can adversely affect sexuality, yet even more prevalent is the lack of closeness that develops between partners over time. Making love isn’t just about intercourse; intimacy as one is important for overall lovemaking. If you find that sexual interest is fading, it may be time to inject romance into the relationship. Snuggling, caressing each other and spending time together are all elements that can rekindle the spark, as well as eliminating the “killers” mentioned above.