Problem: "Partner Betweenness" or when a woman comes between a man and his friends ... by getting closer to his friends .
How it interferes : Partner betweenness decreases the man's feeling of privacy and independence with his friends , compromising his concept of masculinity . This can put a damper on relationshipsatisfaction and attraction .
Research : Men whose female partners were more in touch to their confidants were 92% more likely to have erectile trouble than a man who was closer to his own friends.
Bottom line :It's okay to have shared friends , it can even help give a positive sense of "couplehood" However , giving each other space is essential for your relationship to grow .
Problem: Oxidative Stress .
How it interferes : Free radicals can destroy nitric oxide production ( which would otherwise help dilate the blood vessals , getting the blood flow going when you want it to).
Research :Some ED medications increase nitric ox ide in the body , those little pills don't come without side effects .That's why researchers are hoping to find a more natural means to enhance the function of blood vessels . Antioxidants fight free radicals , so it's possible that boosting antioxidents can help keep nitric at a healthy level for blood flow.
Bottomline: There isn't a ton of proof that antioxidants can help fertility problems , but DHA ( the effective component of fish oil) does.We like to get 900 mg daily from algae (as the fish do !), because you know you are getting the real stuff . Some minerals may help as well ...zinc is being studied , this is still an area in its infancy . Handling stress helps too (try the Cleveland Clinic's award-winning online stress management program ) .
Problem : Low Testosterone From Antidepressants
How it interferes : Not having enough of this sex hormone can lead to decreased sexual desire , which would make it more difficult to be aroused during sex.
Research : Some anitdepressants , like serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can lower testosterone . Think Paxil , Prozac and other drugs for depression. [Burpropion ( marketed as Wellbutrin) doesn't interfere here , and can help you quit smoking too.]
Bottomline:Talk to your doctor if you think something in your medical history could be affecting your sex life. It's not just your hormones that can be affected . An automobile or sports accident you had a long time ago could have left you with injured nerves that affect your sexual functioning today.
Problem :Diabetes , Heart Problems And / Or Obesity
How it interferes : Any of these health conditions can affect inflammation , blood flow and hormone levels that need to be at there peak functioning for sexual intercourse.
Research :For obese men with type 2 diabetes , losing 5 % of their weight boosted sexual desire and alleviated ED within eight weeks
Bottomline : Drastic diet changes may be necessary if you fall into the obese range . Any healthy lifestyle change that wards of cardiovascular disease and diabetes can help prevent ED too , like regular physical activity , less drinkin g and no smoking.
It may be an uncomfortable conversation to have with your partner or doctor , b ut looking at the big picture of what may be causing a sinking sex drive can save your sex life , or life-life !
Very sensible. I learned a thing or two
ReplyDeleteAlways keep your weight at a normal level ... and most of all keep a healthy attitute toward sex .
ReplyDeleteExplore and have fun with your partner.