Sexual Health

When it comes to men’s sexual health, there are few key issues that stand out in most men’s minds – penile function (or dysfunction), libido (and what can affect it), sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and prostate health. These are by far not the only men’s sexual health issues; they are just a few that may seem to pop up more than others.

So I’m sure we all know what erectile dysfunction (ED) is, right? It’s when a man can’t sustain an erection. And for most men, it can cause a lot of embarrassment. This kind of issue can embarrass him in front of his partner and make him feel emasculated. In the past, erectile dysfunction was seen as psychological or just an age issue. But since then, we’ve learned that most of the time there are actual physical issues that cause ED.

Any man having problems maintaining an erection should talk to his doctor immediately. There is most likely an underlying issue like heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, or one or more of several other factors. Treatment for ED can be as simple as changing eating habits, medication or surgery.

Related to ED is a man’s libido. A man’s libido measures the amount of interest he has in sex. Again, there are several factors that can affect a man’s libido. Age, stress, depression, diet, exercise, testosterone level and even medications can all affect a man’s libido. In recent years, as doctors have begun to prescribe medications like antidepressants men have noticed that these medications have lead to a reduction in their libido. However, some drug companies now make antidepressants that don’t have as much of an effect on the libido. Just be sure to talk to your doctor and ask about the side effects of any medication you are taking.

Another issue facing men’s sexual health is that of sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s). Men and women can both get the same STD’s. But signs and symptoms in men may be different that in women. This can be the case with Chlamydia where many times men won’t show signs. Abstinence, condoms and dental dams are the best way to prevent passing or catching STD’s like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and HIV.

As men get older, an important part of their sexual health is paying more attention to their prostate. This is especially true for men over 40. Men’s prostates begin to grow during puberty and then again after the age 40. This can lead to a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH – where the prostate gets too big and begins to cause symptoms. Men are also more at risk for prostate cancer and prostatitis (infection of the prostate).

It’s always important to be open with your doctor about any symptoms you may be having – even if it’s relating to your sexual health.