21/08/2021
What causes s*xual dysfunction in males?
Physical causes of overall s*xual dysfunction may be:
Low testosterone levels.Prescription drugs (antidepressants, high blood pressure medicine).Blood vessel disorders such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and high blood pressure.Stroke or nerve damage from diabetes or surgery.Smoking.Alcoholism and drug abuse.
Psychological causes might include:
Concern about s*xual performance.Marital or relationship problems.Depression, feelings of guilt.Effects of past s*xual trauma.Work-related stress and anxiety.How does s*xual dysfunction affect men?
The most common problems men face with s*xual dysfunction are troubles with ej*******on, getting and keeping an er****on, and reduced s*xual desire.
Ej*******on disorders
Problems with ej*******on are:
Premature ej*******on (PE): Ej*******on that occurs before or too soon after pe*******on.Inhibited or delayed ej*******on: Ej*******on does not happen or takes a very long time.Retrograde ej*******on: At or**sm, the ej*****te is forced back into the bladder rather than through the end of the p***s.
The exact cause of premature ej*******on (PE) is not known. While in many cases PE is due to performance anxiety during s*x, other factors may be:
Stress.Temporary depression.History of s*xual repression.Low self-confidence.Lack of communication or unresolved conflict with partner.
Studies suggest that the breakdown of serotonin (a natural chemical that affects mood) may play a role in PE. Certain drugs, including some antidepressants, may affect ej*******on, as can nerve damage to the back or spinal cord.
Physical causes for inhibited or delayed ej*******on may include chronic (long-term) health problems, medication side effects, alcohol abuse, or surgeries. The problem can also be caused by psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, stress or relationship problems.
Retrograde ej*******on is most common in males with diabetes who suffer from diabetic nerve damage. Problems with the nerves in the bladder and the bladder neck force the ej*****te to flow backward. In other men, retrograde ej*******on may be a side effect of some medications, or happen after an operation on the bladder neck or prostate.
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get and keep an er****on for s*xual in*******se. ED is quite common, with studies showing that about one half of American men over age 40 are affected. Causes of ED include:
Diseases affecting blood flow such as hardening of the arteries.Nerve disorders.Stress, relationship conflicts, depression and performance anxiety.Injury to the p***s.Chronic illness such as diabetes and high blood pressure.Unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking too much alcohol, overeating and lack of exercise.
Low libido (reduced s*xual desire)
Low libido means your desire or interest in s*x has decreased. The condition is often linked with low levels of the male hormone testosterone. Testosterone maintains s*x drive, s***m production, muscle, hair and bone. Low testosterone can affect your body and mood.
Reduced s*xual desire may also be caused by depression, anxiety or relationship difficulties. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain medications like antidepressants may also contribute to a low libido.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTSHow is male s*xual dysfunction diagnosed?
Your doctor may begin the diagnosis process with a physical exam. Physical tests may include:
Blood tests to check your testosterone levels, blood sugar (for diabetes) and cholesterol.Blood pressure check.Rectal exam to check your prostate.Examination of your p***s and testicles.
Other tests can show if you have problems with blood flow to the p***s.
Your doctor may also ask questions about your symptoms and your medical and s*xual history. Though these questions may seem very personal, do not be embarrassed. It is important to answer honestly so the best treatment can be recommended. You may be sent to a different type of doctor (urologist, endocrinologist or s*x therapist, for example) who can help you.
MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENTHow is male s*xual dysfunction treated?
Many cases of s*xual dysfunction can be corrected by treating the mental or physical problems that cause it. Treatments include:
Medications: Drugs that help improve s*xual function by increasing blood flow to the p***s. Sildenafil (Viagra®), vardenafil (Levitra®), and tadalafil (Cialis®) are safe and effective for most men.Hormone therapy: Low levels of testosterone raised by hormone replacement therapies that include injections, patches or gels.Psychological therapy: A psychological counselor to help you address feelings of anxiety, depression, fear or guilt that may affect s*xual function.Mechanical aids: Vacuum devices and pe**le implants that can help some men with erectile dysfunction.
PREVENTIONCan male s*xual dysfunction be prevented?
While male s*xual dysfunction cannot be prevented, dealing with the causes of the dysfunction can help you better understand and cope with the problem when it happens. To help maintain good s*xual function you should follow the same program that is recommended to maintain cardiovascular health.
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan for any of your medical/health conditions.Limit your alcohol intake.Quit smoking.Eat a heart healthy diet (the Mediterranean diet is often recommended).Get regular aerobic and weight building exercise.Get treatment if needed for any emotional or psychological problems such as stress, depression and anxiety.Communicate better and more often with
