LLoss of libido and Lyme disease: An Overlooked Symptom

Lyme disease loss of libido is an under-recognized symptom that may reflect the broader neurologic and systemic effects of infection.

A cross-sectional pilot study conducted by the Breakspear neuroscience department in the United Kingdom examined sexual function in patients with Lyme disease.

The study found that 50% of 16 serologically positive Lyme disease patients reported a loss of libido, compared to 0% in 18 control subjects (p<.001).

What the Study Found

Importantly, the investigators reported that the loss of libido:

Was not associated with detrusor muscle dysfunction
Was not explained by medication use

This suggests that the symptom may be directly related to the disease process itself.

Possible Explanations

Lyme disease can affect multiple systems that influence sexual health, including:

The central nervous system
Autonomic nervous system function
Hormonal and inflammatory pathways
Energy levels and fatigue

These overlapping factors may contribute to changes in libido in some patients.

Why This Matters

Loss of libido can significantly affect quality of life, relationships, and emotional well-being.

Because this symptom is rarely discussed, it may go unrecognized or unaddressed in clinical care.

Recognizing these changes as part of a broader illness may help reduce stigma and improve patient support.

Need for Further Research

The investigators recommended additional studies using validated measures of sexual function.

They also suggested evaluating whether treatment—such as antibiotic therapy—may improve symptoms.

Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between Lyme disease and sexual health.

Clinical Perspective

Lyme disease can affect many aspects of a patient’s health beyond the commonly recognized symptoms.

Clinicians should be aware of quality-of-life concerns, including sexual health, when evaluating and treating patients.

Open discussion may help identify symptoms that would otherwise go unreported.

Reference

Puri BK, Shah M, Julu PO, Kingston MC, Monro JA. The association of Lyme disease with loss of sexual libido and the role of urinary bladder detrusor dysfunction. Int Neurourol J. 2014;18(2):95-97.

Dr. Daniel Cameron, MD, MPH
Lyme disease clinician with over 30 years of experience and past president of ILADS.

Symptoms • Testing • Coinfections • Recovery • Pediatric • Prevention