Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

I have low sexual desire and wondered if it could be caused by the vitamins I take. I have no known physical problems according to my urologist.

Answer

Good for you for getting a good physical exam -- a fine basis for starting to track down possible sources of your low sexual desire. As discussed in Q & A "Normal Level of Testosterone" and Q & A "More Manliness from Testosterone?", testosterone is the hormone responsible for the physiological contribution to sexual desire and its lack results in a condition called "hypogonadism." This can only be detected by a series of blood tests (as discussed earlier). It is unlikely that vitamins will decrease the level of testosterone, although some of the new miracle dietary supplements, such as, MDMA can.

What about alcohol intake? High amounts of alcohol in the system can lead to an increase in estrogen and decreases in testosterone which can affect sexual desire.

Finally, emotional and social contributors can tip that desire in the negative direction, especially if one is depressed or feels disaffected from or has lost one's partner.

So check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if those levels of vitamins are appropriate and safe for you and look to some of these other factors for some answers with your declining desire.

03/18/98

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.