What Do You Mean by Sexual Dysfunction?

When you start experiencing problems during sexual activity, doctors call it sexual dysfunction.

Male sexual dysfunction can be a result of several issues right from low libido, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and other problems.

Remember formula for enjoying a good sexual activity is having a mind and body that are in harmony.

Both physical as well as mental health of a man plays a vital role in a lovemaking session.

In case, you are concerned about sexual dysfunction then talk to your doctor immediately even if you feel uncomfortable.

What is sexual dysfunction?

Sexual dysfunction is when you start having trouble involving in sexual activity or enjoying it, and this upsets you.

Sometimes, condition of sexual dysfunction is also known as sexual disorders.

Remember sexual intercourse is an essential part of your health as well as quality of life.

This makes it difficult for you to deal with sexual dysfunction physically and emotionally as well.

However, sexual dysfunction is common, and most of the time it can be treated under a doctor’s supervision.

Some common sexual dysfunctions include:

• Orgasm disorder
• Hypoactive sexual desire ailment
• Vulvodynia
• Erectile dysfunction
• Premature ejaculation
• Genital arousal disorder

What are different types of sexual dysfunction?

Sexual dysfunction is mainly categorized into four different categories:

Desire disorders

It is an absence of sexual desire or interest in sexual activity

Orgasm ailments

During this ailment, there is a delay or lack of orgasm

Arousal disorders

Unable to become physically stimulated or excited during sexual intercourse with a partner.  

Pain conditions

While involved in a sexual interaction, you experience pain.

Symptoms of sexual dysfunction

When suffering from erectile dysfunction, you experience following symptoms:

• Difficulty in getting an erection
• Decreased sexual desire
• Trouble sustaining an erection

What causes sexual dysfunction in men?

When it comes to sexual dysfunction in men, there are different causes:

Physical causes

Several physical or medical conditions can be responsible for causing issues with sexual function.

Some physical causes of sexual dysfunction include:

• Diabetes
• Hormonal imbalances
• Heart and vascular disease
• Hormonal imbalances
• Neurological disorders
• Substance use disorder
• Chronic diseases like liver failure or kidney issues
• Alcohol use disorder

Apart from this, side effects of some medicines like antidepressant pills can affect your sexual function.

Psychological causes

There are certain psychological causes that have a negative effect on your sexual health.

Below-stated are some psychological causes of sexual dysfunction:

• Work-related stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Worry about your sexual performance
• Marital or relationship issues
• Feelings of guilt
• Worrying about body image and effects of a former sexual trauma

What are risk factors of sexual dysfunction?

As you get older, erections can take longer to develop and might not be firm enough.

You might require more direct touch with your male sexual organ to achieve and keep an erection.

Some risk factors which contribute to sexual dysfunction include:

Medical conditions, mainly heart disorders or diabetes

Tobacco usage, which restricts flow of blood to veins and arteries. Also, it can lead to chronic health problems like sexual dysfunction.

Drug and alcohol usage, particularly if you are a heavy drinker or long-term drug user.

Being overweight, especially if you are obese.

Certain medical treatments, like prostate surgery or radiation therapy for treating cancer.

Medicines, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and other medicines to treat pain or prostate conditions and high blood pressure.

Injuries, if they damage your nerves or arteries that are responsible for controlling erections.

Psychological conditions like depression, stress, or anxiety.

Complications of sexual dysfunction

Problems resulting from sexual dysfunction generally include:

• Relationship issues
• A disappointing sexual life
• Stress or anxiety
• Not able to get your partner pregnant
• Awkwardness or low self-esteem

When to meet your doctor for sexual dysfunction?

When you experience sexual issues frequently, both partners start having anxiety problems.

However, things continue to get worse when it is not addressed properly.

In case, your condition does not improve or you believe there is a physical reason behind it then consult a doctor.

You need to give a complete medical of your health, including a list of prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

Your doctor will start with a physical examination and depending on outcome, diagnostic testing can be done.

If there is not a physical cause then you need to visit a therapist once.

Treating physical causes of sexual dysfunction

Keep one thing in mind, your treatment of sexual dysfunction will depend on exact cause.

Sometimes, treating your underlying medical condition can also resolve sexual dysfunction disorder.

Nevertheless, doctors can prescribe you some medicines which will work best to treat your sexual disorder.

Nowadays, a number of sexual dysfunction treatments are available that provide quick relief from discomfort.

Several men even experience positive benefits by using prescription drugs like Viagra or Fildena tablets.

There are also other remedies for treating sexual dysfunction like surgery, mechanical aids, and penile implants.

Hormone therapy, lubricating gels, or creams can also provide you relief from sexual dysfunction.

Treating psychological causes

Psychological counseling can aid you in different ways. A therapist will help you to manage your anxiety and stress.   

Also, joint counseling with a partner can enhance communication as well as increase intimacy.

Sometimes, support and education about sexual behavior are all that you require.

In counseling, your doctor can address your body image and other inhibitions as well.

For men suffering from deeply rooted sexual dysfunction, psychotherapy is vital.

Thus, when you suffer from sexual dysfunction, communication is necessary.

Talk to your doctor and do not hesitate in seeking medical advice as this will help you to overcome your sexual dysfunction problem.