Which Is The Better Choice? |
What is Viagra? | Sexual Problem in Men
Sexual Problems in Men
- Introduction to sexual problems in men
- What causes sexual problems in men?
- Who is affected by sexual problems?
- What are ejaculation disorders?
- What is erectile dysfunction?
- What is inhibited sexual desire?
- How are male sexual problems diagnosed?
- What tests are used to evaluate sexual problems?
- How is male sexual dysfunction treated?
- Can sexual problems be cured?
- Can sexual problems be prevented?
- When should I call my doctor?
#1. Introduction to sexual problems in men
A sexual problem, or sexual dysfunction, refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual r couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity. The sexual response cycle has four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
While research suggests that sexual dysfunction is common (43% of women and 31% of men report some degree of difficulty), it is a topic that many people are hesitant to discuss. Fortunately, most cases of sexual dysfunction are treatable, so it is important to share your concerns with your partner and doctor.
#2. What Causes
Sexual Problems?
Sexual dysfunction can be a result of a physical or psychological problem.
- Physical causes -- Many physical and/or medical conditions can cause problems with sexual function. These conditions include diabetes, heart and vascular (blood vessel) disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic diseases such as kidney or liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. In addition, the side effects of certain medications, including some antidepressant drugs, can affect sexual desire and function.
- Psychological causes -- These include work-related stress and anxiety, concern about sexual performance, marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the effects of a past sexual trauma.
Who Is Affected
by Sexual Problems?
Both men and women are affected by sexual problems. Sexual problems occur
in adults of all ages. Among those commonly affected are those in the
geriatric population, which may be related to a decline in health associated
with aging.
What Are
Ejaculation Disorders?
There are different types of ejaculation disorders, including:
- Premature ejaculation -- This refers to ejaculation that occurs before or soon after penetration.
- Inhibited or retarded ejaculation -- This is when ejaculation is slow to occur.
- Retrograde ejaculation -- This occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced back into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis.
In some cases, premature and inhibited ejaculation are caused by a lack of attraction for a partner, past traumatic events and psychological factors, including a strict religious background that causes the person to view sex as sinful. Premature ejaculation, the most common form of sexual dysfunction in men, often is due to nervousness over how well he will perform during sex. Certain drugs, including some anti-depressants, may affect ejaculation, as can nerve damage to the spinal cord or back.
Retrograde ejaculation is common in males with diabetes who suffer from diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). This is due to problems with the nerves in the bladder and the bladder neck that allow the ejaculate to flow backward and into the bladder. In other men, retrograde ejaculation occurs after operations on the bladder neck or prostate, or after certain abdominal operations. In addition, certain medications, particularly those used to treat mood disorders, may cause problems with ejaculation. This generally does not require treatment unless it impairs fertility.
What Is Erectile
Dysfunction?
Also known as impotence, erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability
to attain and/or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse. Causes
of erectile dysfunction include diseases affecting blood flow, such as
atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries); nerve disorders; psychological
factors, such as stress, depression, and performance anxiety (nervousness
over his ability to sexually perform); and injury to the penis. Chronic
illness, certain medications, and a condition called Peyronie's disease
(scar tissue in the penis) also can cause erectile dysfunction.
What Is Inhibited
Sexual Desire?
Inhibited desire, or loss of libido, refers to a decrease in desire for,
or interest in sexual activity. Reduced libido can result from physical
or psychological factors. It has been associated with low levels of the
hormone testosterone. It also may be caused by psychological problems,
such as anxiety and depression; medical illnesses, such as diabetes and
high blood pressure; certain medications, including some anti-depressants;
and relationship difficulties.
How Are Male
Sexual Problems Diagnosed?
The doctor likely will begin with a thorough history of symptoms. He or
she may order other tests to rule out any medical problems that may be
contributing to the dysfunction. The doctor may refer you to other doctors,
including a urologist (a doctor specializing in the urinary tract and
male reproductive system), an endocrinologist (a doctor specializing in
glandular disorders), a neurologist (a doctor specializing in disorders
of the nervous system), sex therapists and other counselors.
What Tests Are Used to Evaluate Sexual Problems?
Several tests can be used to evaluate the causes and extent of sexual problems. They include:
- Blood tests -- These tests are done to evaluate hormone levels.
- Vascular assessment -- This involves an evaluation of the blood flow to the penis. A blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the penis may be contributing to erectile dysfunction.
- Sensory testing -- Particularly useful in evaluating the effects of diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), sensory testing measures the strength of nerve impulses in a particular area of the body.
- Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity testing -- This test is used to monitor erections that occur naturally during sleep. This test can help determine if a man's erectile problems are due to physical or psychological causes.
How Is Male
Sexual Dysfunction Treated?
Many cases of sexual dysfunction can be corrected by treating the underlying
physical or psychological problems. Treatment strategies may include the
following:
- Medical treatment -- This involves treatment of any physical problem that may be contributing to a man's sexual dysfunction.
- Medications -- Medications, such as Maxidus, Libidus, Vicerex , Cialis, viagra or livetra, may help improve sexual function in men by increasing blood flow to the penis.
- Hormones -- Men with low levels of testosterone may benefit from hormone supplementation (testosterone replacement therapy).
- Psychological therapy -- Therapy with a trained counselor can help a person address feelings of anxiety, fear or guilt that may have an impact on sexual function.
- Mechanical aids -- Aids such as vacuum devices and penile implants may help men with erectile dysfunction.
- Education and communication -- Education about sex and sexual behaviors and responses may help a man overcome his anxieties about sexual performance. Open dialogue with your partner about your needs and concerns also helps to overcome many barriers to a healthy sex life.
Can Sexual Problems
Be Cured?
The success of treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the underlying
cause of the problem. The outlook is good for dysfunction that is related
to a treatable or reversible physical condition. Mild dysfunction that
is related to stress, fear, or anxiety often can be successfully treated
with counseling, education, and improved communication between partners.
Can Sexual
Problems Be Prevented?
While sexual problems cannot be prevented, dealing with the underlying
causes of the dysfunction can help you better understand and cope with
the problem when it occurs. There are some things you can do to help maintain
good sexual function:
- Follow your doctor's treatment plan for any medical/health conditions.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Quit smoking.
- Deal with any emotional or psychological issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety. Get treatment as needed.
- Increase communication with your partner.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
Many men experience a problem with sexual function from time to time.
However, when the problems are persistent, they can cause distress for
the man and his partner, and have a negative impact on their relationship.
If you consistently experience sexual function problems, see your doctor
for evaluation and treatment