Low Libido: Which Blood Tests Are Worth Considering?

A change in sex drive is extremely common and usually isn’t a sign of anything serious, but when it’s persistent and out of character, it’s fair to wonder whether a blood test for low libido could help explain what’s going on. Hormones are one piece of the puzzle, alongside stress, sleep, relationship factors, mental health and certain medications.

Hormones commonly linked to libido

Testosterone

Testosterone plays a role in sex drive for both men and women, though the levels involved differ considerably between the sexes. Low testosterone can contribute to reduced libido, low energy and low mood in men, and can also be relevant for some women, particularly around perimenopause.

SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin)

SHBG binds testosterone in the blood, affecting how much is “free” and biologically active. A high SHBG can mean your total testosterone looks normal while less is actually available, which is why SHBG is often measured alongside testosterone.

Prolactin

Raised prolactin can suppress sex hormones and reduce libido in both men and women, and is worth checking when other hormone results don’t fully explain your symptoms.

Thyroid hormones

An underactive thyroid commonly causes fatigue and low mood, both of which can affect libido indirectly. TSH is a sensible marker to include.

Oestrogen (in women)

Falling oestrogen, especially around perimenopause and menopause, is commonly linked to reduced libido, alongside other symptoms like vaginal dryness and hot flushes.

What blood tests can’t tell you

Libido is influenced by far more than hormones. Stress, poor sleep, relationship dynamics, anxiety, depression, certain medications (including some antidepressants and blood pressure treatments), and alcohol can all play a significant role, and none of these show up on a blood test. A normal hormone panel doesn’t rule out a cause; it simply means hormones are less likely to be the main driver, which can still be a useful and reassuring thing to know.

When it’s worth testing

Testing is most useful when a change in libido is persistent, comes alongside other symptoms (fatigue, low mood, hot flushes, erectile difficulties), or when you simply want to rule hormones in or out before exploring other causes.

Which test should I consider?

• For men: our Men’s Hormone Health Panel, covering testosterone, SHBG and related markers.
• For women: our Female Hormone Profile, covering oestradiol, testosterone and related markers.
• If thyroid symptoms are also present: a Thyroid Function Test.

Not sure which is right for you? Use our free Test Finder for a personalised recommendation in under a minute, no GP referral needed.

Frequently asked questions

Can low testosterone really affect libido?

Yes, in both men and women, though the relationship isn’t always straightforward and other factors are usually involved too.

My results are normal but my libido is still low, what now?

This is common, and worth discussing with your GP, since non-hormonal factors like stress, mood and medication are frequent contributors.

Should I test at a particular time of day?

Testosterone is usually highest in the morning, so an early appointment can give a more representative result.

Could my medication be the cause?

Some medications, including certain antidepressants, can affect libido. It’s worth discussing this with your GP or prescriber rather than stopping any medication yourself.

How quickly will I get my results?

Most results are available within 1–2 working days and are reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor before you receive them.

Important note

This article is for general education only and is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Low libido has many possible causes, including relationship, psychological and medication-related factors that blood tests cannot show. Please speak to your GP if this is affecting you. Trupoint Health blood tests are analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory and reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor.

Medically reviewed by: ____________ (GMC-registered), pending review.