Men's Sexual Health
Sex is an important part of life. Love, affection and intimacy all play a role in healthy relationships from childhood to old age. For most men, thoughts of sex start before puberty and last until the end of life. Male sexual health includes desire and the ability to get and maintain an erection. Although physiological factors can affect both the desire and the ability to have sex, psychological and emotional factors play important roles.
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STI Prevention
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections commonly acquired though unprotected sexual contact. Most people who have an STI will not know it, as many STIs cause no symptoms, but specific STI’s can have specific symptoms. If you're sexually active, especially with a new partner: use protection and get tested.
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Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction, an inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex is common. ​Many things can contribute to ED, including stress, depression, relationship issues, low testosterone, surgery, and physical conditions e.g. diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease. ED can leave you and your partner frustrated. Unfortunately, men are reluctant to discuss ED with their doctors, but when discussed many things can be done, by individuals themselves, and by doctors with medications and other treatments.
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Ejaculatory Problems
Men can experience many difficulties related to ejaculation, including: premature ejaculation, inability to ejaculate; delayed ejaculation; painful ejaculation; reduced ejaculation or retrograde ejaculation. Seek help early, and do so without embarrassment.
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Testosterone
Testosterone plays an important role in a man's sexual experience. Testosterone levels gradually decline throughout adulthood at a rate of about 1% each year after age 30, but levels typically vary among men. If you feel you may be suffering with testosterone deficiency, or wish to know how to improve your testosterone levels, discuss this with your doctor.
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Sex and Ageing
Adults can remain sexually active regardless of age. An ongoing interest in sex, as well as satisfaction with the frequency and quality of sexual activity, is associated with better health in later life. However, there can be challenges: physical changes, illness, disabilities and some medicines may make sex more difficult to enjoy. There are many options and strategies available to older adults to achieve a satisfying sex life.
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Never be embarrassed about raising any concerns with your doctor at any time. They will be used to discussing these issues like any other medical condition. Most importantly take care of yourself and manage your physical and mental health as best as you can.
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