Sexual Problems in Men
The problems during sexual activity cycle which prevent a man or couple from experiencing satisfaction is known as sexual problem. There are four phases of sexual response cycle that is excitement, plateau, orgasm and resolution. The sexual dysfunction is very common and about 31% of men and 43% of women have this problem. The sexual dysfunction is treatable.
What Causes Male Sexual Problems?
There can be physical and psychological causes of sexual dysfunction.
The physical conditions like diabetes, heart problems, hormonal imbalance, kidney or liver failure, neurological disorder and alcoholism and drug abuse can cause sexual dysfunction. It can also be due to side effects of some medications including antidepressant drugs.
The sexual dysfunction can be due to stress and anxiety, concerns about sexual performance, feeling of guilt and effects of past sexual trauma.
Who Is Affected by Sexual Problems?
The sexual problems may occur in men and women and these problems occur in adults of all ages. These problems are common in the geriatric population which is related to decline in health with age.
How Do Sexual Problems Affect Men?
Ejaculation disorder, erectile dysfunction and inhibited desire are common sexual problems in men.
What Are Ejaculation Disorders?
Men can have different types of ejaculation disorder including Premature ejaculation which occurs before or soon after penetration. The inhibited ejaculation when ejaculation is slow to occur. The ejaculation at the orgasm is retrograde ejaculation and this ejaculation forced back into bladder instead of urethra.
The psychological factors can cause premature and inhibited ejaculation. These factors can be lack of attraction for partner, and past traumatic events, nervousness about sex during sexual activity. It can also be due to certain drugs, anti depressants which can damage the spinal cord ort back. The diabetes patients may have retrograde ejaculation and it occurs after operations on the bladder neck or prostate. It can also be due to certain medications.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction which is also known as impotence is the inability to attain or maintain erection during sexual activity. Low blood pressure, atherosclerosis, depression, stress, anxiety and injuries to penis can cause erectile dysfunction. It can also be due to certain medications, chronic illness, Peyronie’s disease.
What Is Inhibited Sexual Desire?
The decrease in desire for sex or no interest in sex is the inhibited sexual desire and it can be due to physical and psychological factors. It can be due to low level of hormone ttestosterone. Psychological problems like anxiety, depression, diabetes, high blood pressure and certain medications may cause the inhibited sexual desire.
How Are Male Sexual Problems Diagnosed?
The complete physical exam will be taken about symptoms. Other tests will also be taken contributing to dysfunction. You can also go to urologist, endocrinologist, sex therapist, neurologist and other counselors to find out the causes of the sexual problems in men.
How Is Male Sexual Dysfunction Treated?
The sexual problems can be treated by treating the underlying physical or psychological problems.
Medical treatment: physical problems contributing to sexual dysfunction can be treated with medical treatment.
Medications: the sexual dysfunction can be reduced by taking certain medications like Levitra or Viagra which can increase the blood flow into the penis.
Hormones: the low level of testosterone can be good with testosterone replacement therapy.
Psychological therapy can be taken to overcome fear, anxiety and guilt which can affect the sexual activity.
The men can get help from aids like vacuum devices with erectile dysfunction.
It is veryb important to have the education about the sex and sexual behaviors. You can overcome problems through open dialogues with your partner about your needs.
Can Sexual Problems Be Prevented?
You can get help by dealing underlying causes of the dysfunction and cope with the problem when it occurs. You can maintain good sexual function with the help few things. You should follow the instructions of your doctor about your health conditions.
The alcohol intake should be limited and quit smoking. You should deal with stress, depression and anxiety and get treatment. The communication with your partner should be increased.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
The sexual problems may occur from time to time in men. You should contact your doctor if these problems are persistent and you are experiencing these problems consistently.