Sexual Health Overview (cont.)
What is the true definition of erectile dysfunction -- and what are the most common causes?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, has a far broader
definition than many couples realize. It includes, of course, not being able to
obtain an erection, but also the inability to sustain an erection sufficient for
intercourse, as well as the inability to ejaculate on a consistent basis.
While once believed to be largely an emotional problem, today doctors know ED
is most often the result of other health concerns including
diabetes,
high blood
pressure, kidney failure, early
heart disease, prostate problems, and
depression. Additionally,
alcohol abuse is a major contributing factor, and in
some men, cigarette smoking.
Chronic stress can also play a role. In some men
certain drugs can result in erectile dysfunction, most notably some high blood
pressure medications and some treatments for depression.
What causes sexual dysfunction in women?
Unlike men who require certain physiological events to have intercourse,
women have no such restrictions. As such, the most common reasons for
sexual
dysfunction are often based in matters of desire, sexual arousal, or sometimes
painful intercourse. Some women also report an inability to have an orgasm or
experience pain when achieving one.
While a decrease in desire can be caused by many things, including a negative
relationship with a partner, or other life stresses, physical causes are often
traced to a decrease in the hormones estrogen and testosterone that occur during
menopause. Not only can this put a damper on desire, it can also cause a
decrease in vaginal lubrication making it more difficult to become aroused and
causing intercourse to be painful (see question 6). In addition, certain
illnesses, most notably a thyroid disorder or depression, can also impact a
woman's desire. The inability to achieve orgasm is seldom caused by a physical
problem, but more often the result of inadequate stimulation by a woman's
partner.
Next: What causes pain in the penis? »
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