3 minutes read3 minutes readThe concept of ‘sexual health’ is multifaceted. It incorporates both physical and psychological elements, as well as other aspects surrounding general wellbeing. Like any other part of your health, there are steps men should take to look after their sexual health.
Men’s sexual health encompasses several different areas. Let’s start with the physical components. As with other medical conditions, physical symptoms can indicate that there may be something amiss with your sexual health.
Loss of libido
Libido, also commonly referred to as ‘sex drive’, is what influences our desire to have sex. Libido is an effect of the testosterone hormone present in both men and women. Low levels of libido can affect one’s sexual behaviour and their desire to engage in sexual activity.
What is considered a ‘normal libido’ varies from person to person. It doesn’t mean you should want to engage in sex every day or even every week, but if you are someone who previously enjoyed having sex regularly but recently have not been feeling much desire, it may be a sign of low libido.
What to do if you have low libido
Low libido is most commonly caused by relationship issues. If you are experiencing low libido, then it’s probably a good time to reflect on your relationship. Couples counselling can be a good option. Though if things in your relationship seem just fine, there is medication that can help, so consider visiting your doctor to discuss this.
Erectile Dysfunction
Men should be able to sustain an erection for as long as it takes to satisfy sex. This is an important part of every man’s sexual health. Those who are unable to do this may have an issue known as Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
ED can occur due to several reasons, from psychological causes such as high stress levels or depression, to issues within a relationship. It can also be a symptom of other health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.
What to do if you have ED
Firstly, visit your doctor to be sure that it isn’t a sign of any other serious health condition. Depending on the cause of ED, treatment will differ. ED treatments include medication and surgery. If the issue is non-medical, you may be advised to consider counselling.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
For both men and women, the prevention of STIs is crucial to maintaining good sexual health. STIs can have long-lasting negative impacts on your health and fertility. Regular STI testing is a necessary part of taking care of your sexual health.
Other important things to consider
Above all, good sexual health is about having happy, healthy, safe and consensual sexual relationships. It requires honest, open communication with partners and a mutual respect for one another.
Men who have sex with men (MSM) may be at greater risk of some STIs. Therefore, it is important to have a routine sexual health test. Better2Know offers a range of screens specifically designed for MSM.
Speak to our advisors in confidence
Do you have any other questions about your sexual health? You can talk to our highly trained sexual health advisors in confidence using the live chat on our website or by phoning the 24/7 number at the top of the page.
Better2Know can help you to book an appointment at a sexual health clinic near you. Visit our website for more information on STIs and sexual health.
Sources
[1] HEALTH.HARVARD.EDU: Men’s Sexual Health
[2] HEALTHYHORNS.UTEXAS.EDU: Men’s Sexual Health
[3] THEMALECLINIC.COM.AU: Libido Disorders
[4] THEMALECLINIC.COM.AU: Erectile Dysfunction
