Sleep deprivation has been conclusively linked to numerous health conditions, including high blood pressure, weight gain, depression, cardiovascular disease, a weaker immune system, and diabetes, to name just a few. Less frequently discussed is the impact sleep deprivation can have on a person’s sexual health.
Insomnia-Related Sexual Issues Are Different for Men and Women
A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine studied the sex lives of 4,000 men and women in their 60s and found that those who got insufficient sleep were more likely to have some type of sexual dysfunction. However, the specific issues were different depending upon gender. Men were more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction if they were sleep-deprived. Women, on the other hand, were more likely to suffer from low sex drive and difficulty reaching orgasm.
Insomnia and Low Testosterone
While a lack of sleep may directly impact sexual function and libido due fatigue, there is a secondary cause and effect: a lack of sleep can result in lower testosterone levels in both men and women. Low testosterone, meanwhile, can cause a reduction in sexual function and libido.
Treatments for Insomnia
The key to treating insomnia lies in finding the underlying cause. For many women and men, that underlying cause is age-related hormone decline. If you are not getting enough sleep and you suspect your hormones are to blame, contact Renew Youth at (800) 859-7511 to learn more about how we can help.