Male sexual dysfunction can include a wide variety of problems, ranging from low libido, erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation, and other issues: https://bit.ly/2L1T6rm
While many men know that these issues are common, they can be difficult to talk about. In fact, many men wait several months, or even years, before raising the issue with their primary care physician.
Thankfully, both normal and abnormal male sexual function is now better understood medically than ever before. Often, men will first see a urologist and then are referred to me for a more detailed evaluation and discussion of their overall health.
*male sexual, physical, and mental health*
Sexual problems may signal a cardiovascular or other medical issues
Any man that experiences a change in libido, erection, or ejaculation should bring this up to their primary care physician. Any issue that lasts for several months may indicate a more serious medical issue that should be addressed:
Early ejaculation can develop because of medication, nerve damage, or other direct urinary conditions,
A change in libido or erection may be the first sign of diabetes,
Problems with libido or erection may be related to a hormonal imbalance,
Problems with erection may be a sign of a cardiovascular issue or prostate cancer,
There is a strong link between sexual function and mental health
Mental health issues — including depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric illnesses — can lead to many different types of sexual disorders. It’s very important to diagnose the psychiatric illness first to improve sexual function.
Sexual function is often improved by addressing, managing, and alleviating anxiety and depression.
With age, some changes in sexual function are normal
Some changes in sexual drive, performance, and function are normal parts of aging. They may need more time for foreplay or direct stimulation. If this isn’t enough to improve normal age-related changes in sexual function, sex therapy can be very beneficial.”
Improving overall health can improve sexual performance
The “biopsychosocial model” for overall and sexual health. “There is so much interconnectivity when it comes to our health,” she explained. “It’s important to take a holistic view.”
Indeed, cardiovascular, neurological, hormonal, and psychological systems all interact together for sexual performance. A healthy lifestyle can significantly help improve sexual function — improving diet, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly all help promote greater overall health and, therefore, greater sexual health.
