Male Sexual Dysfunction
In men, sexual dysfunction is typically related to problems with arousal, getting an erection, and/or ejaculating. Sexual dysfunction is complicated and can be caused my many things. Improving diet, exercising more, and identifying underlying factors are all important for treating sexual dysfunction.
Male Sexual Dysfunction falls under theHealthy Aging & Longevitycategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Male sexual dysfunction refers to difficulties related to sexual interest or arousal, achieving an erection, and ejaculation. These issues can affect one or more of these factors in men.
Men with sexual dysfunction may exhibit symptoms such as a lack of interest in sex, difficulty in becoming aroused, challenges in achieving or maintaining an erection, and issues with ejaculation timing. Additionally, low testosterone levels can also be a contributing factor.
Male sexual dysfunction is diagnosed primarily based on an individual's identification of problematic symptoms because many are subjective. A comprehensive history, psychiatric evaluation, and lab tests may also be used to explore emotional factors and rule out physiological causes.
Medical treatments for male sexual dysfunction vary by condition and include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as well as topical anesthetics for premature ejaculation, cessation of certain medications for delayed ejaculation, phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors for erectile dysfunction, and testosterone replacement therapy for low libido. Additionally, underlying issues such as depression or cardiovascular disease may contribute to sexual dysfunction.
Some studies suggest that maca may enhance sexual desire, and cocoa extract could improve sexual function through vascular health support. Other supplements like fenugreek, yohimbine, Tribulus terrestris, and Eurycoma longifolia show potential, but research on them is limited.
Diet can significantly affect male sexual dysfunction because weight loss in people with overweight or those with diet-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes can lead to marked improvements in sexual function.
Regular exercise, psychotherapy, and sex therapy can effectively treat male sexual dysfunction, particularly when it is associated with personal beliefs or experiences. Additionally, quitting smoking and addressing underlying health conditions may also improve erectile dysfunction.
Male sexual dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological, vascular, endocrine, and psychosocial issues, as well as sleep disturbances, medications, and recreational drugs. Any disruption in the normal functioning of these systems can lead to sexual function problems.
- ^The content of this page was partially adapted from MedlinePlus of the National Library of Medicine
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