Male Sexual Disorder

Male Sexual Disorder

Sexual dysfunction is any physical or psychological problem that prevents you or your partner from getting sexual satisfaction. Male sexual dysfunction is a common health problem affecting men of all ages, but is more common with increasing age. Treatment can often help men suffering from sexual dysfunction

Symptoms & Causes

Physical causes of overall sexual 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 sexual performance.
• Marital or relationship problems.
• Depression, feelings of guilt.
• Effects of past sexual trauma.
• Work-related stress and anxiety.

Treatment

Many cases of sexual dysfunction can be corrected by treating the mental or physical problems that cause it. Treatments include:

• Medications: Drugs that help improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to the penis. 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 sexual function.
• Mechanical aids: Vacuum devices and penile implants that can help some men with erectile dysfunction.