# Reduced Libido

URL: https://thethyroidologist.com/symptoms/reduced-libido/
Section: Symptoms
Last medically reviewed: 2025-11-15

> Thyroid disease can affect sex drive through fatigue, mood, hormones and body changes. How thyroid function and libido are linked.

A reduced sex drive is common and has many causes, but thyroid disease can contribute — directly through hormone effects and indirectly through fatigue, low mood, weight change and relationship strain.
Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid have been associated with reduced libido.

## How the thyroid affects libido

Thyroid hormone influences sex hormone binding globulin, prolactin and the balance of oestrogen and testosterone. In hypothyroidism, prolactin can rise and sex hormone balance can shift; in hyperthyroidism, similar disruptions occur.
The effect on energy, mood and body image is often just as important as the hormonal one.

## Other contributors

Stress, relationship difficulties, sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, medication and other illnesses all affect libido. These should not be overlooked when thyroid tests are normal.
In menopause and ageing, hormonal changes also play a major role.

## What to do

If reduced libido accompanies fatigue, weight change, temperature intolerance, mood changes or menstrual irregularity, thyroid testing is reasonable.
Correcting thyroid dysfunction may help, but improvement can take months and may require addressing other factors.

## Talking about it

Sexual concerns are common and treatable. Raising them with a clinician — and, where appropriate, with a partner — is the first step. There is no need to accept persistent problems silently.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can thyroid disease lower sex drive?

Yes — both an underactive and overactive thyroid can reduce libido, directly and through fatigue, mood and body changes.

### Will treatment improve it?

It can, but improvement may take months and other factors such as stress, sleep and mood also need attention.

### Is it related to fertility?

Thyroid disease can affect both libido and fertility, so persistent difficulties should be assessed.

### Should I have my hormones checked?

Thyroid testing is a reasonable start. Depending on the picture, other hormone tests may be arranged.

## Disclaimer

The content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your specific condition.

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Part of The Thyroidologist — https://thethyroidologist.com