Libido and Hormones: How They Are Connected

Sex drive is not just a matter of desire. Hormones play a huge role—and this is especially noticeable when you are on a fertility journey. Libido and hormones are inseparably linked: from estrogen and testosterone to cortisol and melatonin. But vitamins and minerals also influence the balance. So what actually happens in the body when desire changes?

Here we unfold the topic. How the rhythm of hormones shapes sex drive. Why stress and sleep can affect libido. And how you can support both your body and your relationship when the desire for pregnancy is at the forefront.

Hormones as the Key to Libido

Hormonal balance acts as an invisible conductor for sex drive. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone all play their part. When their levels fluctuate, libido changes. For women, this can be especially noticeable around ovulation, when estrogen and testosterone peak, and desire often follows. For men, testosterone is crucial for maintaining a healthy level of libido and energy.

Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction, as well as to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood. It is an important piece for both hormonal balance and libido. For men, selenium is also relevant, as it contributes to normal sperm cell formation—a part of the bigger picture when fertility and sex life meet.

Libido During the Fertility Journey

When sex becomes focused on conception, the dynamic changes. What used to be play and passion can suddenly feel planned and pressured. Many experience a drop in libido precisely during the periods when the chances of pregnancy are highest. A paradox, but also completely normal.

The article from duty sex to love sex highlights exactly this challenge. And project baby: from duty sex to love sex provides concrete advice on how to maintain intimacy. Rediscovering closeness and joy may be the most important tool in making the fertility journey feel like a shared experience rather than a project.

Cortisol, Stress, and Sex Drive

Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, is one of the biggest libido killers. When levels are high, it suppresses both estrogen and testosterone. The result can be lack of desire, tension, and sleep problems. A vicious cycle that easily drains energy from your sex life.

This is why it makes sense to actively work on stress reduction. Fertility yoga, meditation, or even a calm walk can lower cortisol and restore balance to the system. Small habits that can make a noticeable difference over time.

Melatonin and the Role of Sleep

Sleep is closely tied to libido. Melatonin regulates circadian rhythm, but sleep is also the time when the body restores hormonal balance. Sleep deprivation can lead to lower testosterone, disrupted estrogen balance, and increased cortisol. All factors that can reduce desire.

Prioritizing 7–9 hours of quality sleep can therefore be one of the most effective ways to support your sex life—especially during a fertility journey, when both body and mind need extra resources.

Vitamin B6 and Hormonal Activity

Vitamin B6 contributes to regulating hormonal activity. This means that stable levels can support the balance between the hormones that influence libido. Many notice that mood and energy improve when hormonal activity is more balanced. This applies both in daily rhythm and in the more sensitive phases of the cycle.

Antioxidants and Cellular Health

Cells in both the reproductive organs and hormone glands are affected by oxidative stress. Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, and riboflavin help protect cells from oxidative stress. Think of it as an invisible shield that ensures hormones can do their job optimally. When cells have good conditions, it is also felt in vitality and desire.

A colorful salad with fruit or a handful of berries in your daily routine can be simple ways to provide the body with more antioxidants. Small steps, big effect.

Estrogen and the Cycle

The female cycle is closely connected to sex drive. Many women notice a boost in libido leading up to ovulation, when estrogen and testosterone peak. Biologically, this makes sense, as the body is most fertile at this point. Estrogen also affects mood and energy, which can further support desire. But during times of low estrogen—such as right before menstruation or in menopause—many experience a decline in libido.

Being aware of these patterns can bring peace of mind. You learn to understand that desire naturally fluctuates—and that it is not necessarily about you or your relationship.

Sex Life, Intimacy, and Fertility

Sex life during a fertility journey is not just about timing. It is just as much about maintaining closeness, even when the project takes up space. Many find it helpful to talk openly about expectations and concerns. To dare to say: “I want to—but right now I’m tired.” Or: “I need intimacy without intercourse tonight.”

The article what happens in the brain when we have sex offers insight into why closeness affects us so deeply. And do you know your erogenous zones can be an eye-opener to exploring the body in new ways.

Diet, Energy, and Libido

A balanced diet can support sex drive. Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) contributes to normal heart function, and healthy circulation is essential for sexual function. At the same time, stable blood sugar is important for avoiding energy dips that can drain vitality.

If you want inspiration, a green smoothie can be a simple place to start. It delivers energy, fiber, and antioxidants in one glass.

When Libido Declines – and What You Can Do

Libido naturally goes up and down. But if desire is absent for a long time, it may be a sign of hormonal imbalance, stress, or lack of sleep. Talk to your partner about it—and if needed, seek professional guidance. No one should deal with loss of desire alone, especially when it impacts both the relationship and the fertility journey.

Summary

• Libido and hormones are closely linked—especially estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
• Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction, as well as to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood.
• Selenium contributes to normal sperm cell formation—relevant for male fertility.
• Vitamin B6 contributes to regulating hormonal activity and can support balance in sex drive.
• Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, and riboflavin help protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) contributes to normal heart function and thereby to sexual health.
• Sleep, stress management, and open communication are crucial for a healthy sex life during a fertility journey.

Libido is a dance between hormones, mind, and relationships. When you understand the interplay and make room for both body and emotions, sex life becomes not just part of the fertility journey—but also a source of joy, closeness, and balance.

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Our team is ready to help you with personal guidance on diet, lifestyle, and fertility preparation.
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