Sexual Dysfunction and Disorder

Four phases of a normal sexual cycle and sexual dysfunction in women were discussed in the past days. Today, we are going to have a discussion about sexual dysfunction in men.

Sexual Dysfunction in Men

• Erectile dysfunction: ED is perhaps the most common and frequently reported sexual dysfunction in males. Stressful lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, use of antidepressant drugs or beta blockers, anxiety, muscular disorders or psychological stress can all lead to ED. In addition, certain disorders such as chronic, uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension etc. can also lead to erectile dysfunction.
• Ejaculation difficulty: Ejaculation is an orgasmic phase in which male reproductive or sexual glands release the secretions (carrying sperms) to the female copulatory organ i.e. vagina. Ejaculation dysfunctions can present as premature or delayed ejaculation. Pelvic and spinal injuries or emotional stress are primary pathophysiological factors that are implicated in ejaculation defects.
• Decreased libido: Low levels of testosterones and stress can alter sexual desires or emotions. This may also result from prolong use of antidepressants, psychological issues and physiological aging.

References:

1. Hatzimouratidis, K., Amar, E., Eardley, I., Giuliano, F., Hatzichristou, D., Montorsi, F., ... & Wespes, E. (2010). Guidelines on male sexual dysfunction: erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. European urology, 57(5), 804-814.
2. Wang, C., Jackson, G., Jones, T. H., Matsumoto, A. M., Nehra, A., Perelman, M. A., ... & Cunningham, G. (2011). Low testosterone associated with obesity and the metabolic syndrome contributes to sexual dysfunction and cardiovascular disease risk in men with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes care, 34(7), 1669-1675.