Male Sexual Issues
Popular media reinforces the idea that men are always highly sexual and should be ready to have sex when provided the opportunity. This stereotype is only accurate to part of the population. Many men are ashamed to talk about sexual issues because society tends to associate masculinity with strong sexual ability. The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions ranges from 10% to 50% in males. Common male sexual issues include:
- Low sexual desire
- Erectile disorder
- Premature ejaculation
- Delayed ejaculation
- Genital pain
Sexual issues are caused by multiple factors like biological, psychological, relational, and social. For example, a man’s low sexual desire may be caused by low testosterone (medical), belief that I’m not manly enough (cognitive), anxiety about erection during sex (emotional), shame driven by a family belief that sex is dirty (social/cultural), and conflicts in the relationship (relational). Sexual issues are usually comorbid with other mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Childhood adverse experiences like physical/emotional neglect and physical/emotional/sexual abuse are usually linked with sexual issues.
Clients should first check with their family doctors to rule out any organic medical reasons that cause the sexual issues. There are mixed results about the efficacy of medications, and the side effects are high. The most well-researched treatments for sexual issues are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness practice. Sensate Focus exercise is usually suggested to couples to practice together. Emotionally Focused Therapy can be helpful to solve the relational and communication issues that may contribute to sexual dysfunctions.
Parenthood brings extra challenges to sex. 60% of women have sexual issues, and 20-60% of both men and women experience sexual problems after pregnancy. Fertility issues can also change the meaning of sex and decrease sexual satisfaction.
