The idea that men have a higher sexual drive than women is a stereotype that continues to be a topic of debate. However, this is not the case!
Our social norms and the ways we are brought up to either embrace or repress our sexuality can impact how we experience and present our sexuality to ourselves and society.
Libido in conservative societies
Generally, in ‘conservative’ societies, people typically raised as men are often given more latitude to speak openly about wanting sex, whereas young women are not allowed/ encourage to freely express their sexuality. Perception of whether or not one should express their sexuality would be affected if negative connotations were attached to it.
Additionally, oftentimes, there are several factors that can affect a woman’s sex drive like fluctuations in hormones during and post pregnancy, menopause, childbirth etc. and conditions such as pain during sexual intercourse. Age and other physical health conditions can also reduce sexual desire in women and men. Peoples’ sex drive can vary greatly throughout their lives and can be affected by several physical and psychological factors.
Factors affecting sexual drive
Social and religious beliefs have an impact on sexual attitudes. It can also influence how men and women choose to present their sexual experiences to other people including the sexual behaviours they engage in like masturbation, watching porn or even talking about the number of sexual partners they have had.
In summary, every person’s sex drive is unique and may fluctuate over time, which means that both men and women can have similar levels of libido and if one tends to show higher levels, this is probably due to external factors and not necessarily because ‘men have a higher sexual drive’.
Sexual drive or libido can differ depending on a person’s gender identity. It can be influenced by a wide variety of factors, like hormones, physical and emotional health, relationship dynamics, cultural and societal conventions, etc.
Libido in transgender and non-binary individuals
The gender identity and experiences of transgender and non-binary people, as well as any hormone therapy they may be receiving, could have an impact on their sexual drive. While some people might experience major changes in their libido both before and after hormone therapy, others may not.
There is no set definition of what constitutes a “normal” libido, therefore it’s essential to keep in mind that everyone experiences their sexual drive differently. It’s also important to note that for certain people, social stigma, discrimination, and obstacles to receiving healthcare may have an impact on their sexual drive, which may negatively affect their general physical and emotional well-being.
Causes of high and low libido
However, if we were to delve into some of the common causes of low libido, mental health issues (e.g., stress, depression), hormone imbalances, marital/ relationship issues, and some side effects of medications are a few of them. Low libido can also have physical causes including a persistent sickness, an injury, medication adverse effects and other medical/ health issues.
High testosterone levels, an active sex drive, or an increase in desire as a result of a new romantic relationship or sexual experience can all contribute to high libido. However, psychological conditions like hypersexual disorder or mania can also show symptoms of increased libido.
Impact of low libido on relationships
Additionally, low libido can have a significant impact on intimate relationships, as it can lead to decreased sexual intimacy and emotional fulfilment. When one partner is struggling with low sexual desire, it can create feelings of frustration, disappointment, and hurt for both partners. If someone or their partner is bothered by their sex drive, it can be addressed through therapy and medication after consulting with a sex therapist or doctor.
This would help in identifying possible factors causing the high/ low sex drive. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be an effective approach for improving sexual desire for some people. For individuals struggling with low libido, CBT may help identify and address negative thoughts and beliefs about sex, improve communication with partners, and reduce stress and anxiety that can interfere with sexual desire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s essential to recognize and appreciate the natural variations in libido that exist among individuals. There is no one-size-fits-all definition of what constitutes a high or low sex drive, as each person’s experiences and desires are unique. It’s important to acknowledge that fluctuations in sexual desire are normal and can be influenced by numerous factors, such as age, hormones, physical health, emotional well-being, relationship dynamics, and cultural or societal expectations.
Open communication about one’s sexual desires, preferences, and concerns can help foster understanding and strengthen the bond between partners. Encouraging honest conversations about libido can create a supportive environment where both partners feel comfortable discussing their needs and desires without judgment or shame.
If you are concerned about your libido, whether it feels too high or too low, seeking guidance from qualified healthcare professionals, such as sex therapists or doctors, is recommended. They can help identify potential underlying causes for your concerns and provide appropriate treatment options or coping strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Speaking with a professional can also help dispel any misconceptions or unfounded fears about one’s sex drive, leading to a healthier understanding and acceptance of one’s sexual desires and needs. In some cases, therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), may be beneficial in addressing negative thoughts and beliefs about sex, improving communication with partners, and reducing stress and anxiety that can interfere with sexual desire.
Author Bio: Anoush Gomes, a trailblazing writer and healthcare advocate at Allo Health, combines empathy, wit, and charisma to create engaging content that simplifies complex medical concepts and inspires readers to prioritize their wellbeing. With a background in Biomedical Sciences and journalism, Anoush has contributed to various health publications, becoming a beloved storyteller with a loyal following. Their passion for preventive medicine and holistic wellness drives them to empower individuals through informative and entertaining articles. Anoush Gomes is a force to be reckoned with in the health writing community, consistently breaking barriers and redefining the role of health writers in the modern age.
