Decreased Male Libido: Care Instructions
Overview
A decreased libido means you have less desire to have sex. It may be hard to get sexually excited or have an erection. Problems such as low testosterone can cause this. So can stress, sexual abuse, tension between you and your sex partner, and some medicines. There may be more than one cause.
Your doctor may do tests to check your hormone levels. The doctor may ask you about your sex life. Trust your doctor. Try to be honest about your feelings toward sex. Your sex partner may want to take part in your treatment. And you may want to learn about how the body changes as you get older.
Most people can have a healthy sex drive again after the problem is found.
Medicines for depression can affect your sex drive. If you are taking any, ask your doctor about changing them.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Your doctor may prescribe a medicine to help you keep an erection. This could be a medicine such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or vardenafil (Levitra). But don't take these drugs if you take nitroglycerin or other nitrate medicine for angina. If you are taking medicine for prostate problems, ask your doctor if these erection medicines are safe.
- Be safe with medicines. Take your medicine exactly as prescribed.
- Tell your doctor about all the medicines and natural health products you take.
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Alcohol can make it harder to have an erection.
- Have more foreplay before sex.
- Reduce your stress before sex by doing something to help you relax.
- Try types of sexual activity other than intercourse.
- Be honest with your sex partner about what you enjoy during sex.
When should you call for help?
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: November 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
