Sexual Dysfunction Therapy for Men
There are two components to a satisfying sex life: the desire to have sex and the ability to perform. If you have challenges with either one or both, we can help.
Facts About Sexual Dysfunction
- Erectile dysfunction (E.D.) is common. The rate of E.D. in the adult male population is 52%.
- A healthy sex drive is the foundation for sexual function.
- Testosterone levels directly impact penile sensitivity.
- Optimizing testosterone and estrogen resolves low sex drive and E.D. for many men.
- For those who continue to have issues with sexual dysfunction after hormones are balanced, we have a progression of targeted treatment options.
Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction
Hormones
First, we check testosterone and estrogen levels. If necessary, our physicians balance these hormones to healthy levels. This step alone resolves sexual dysfunction for many men.
If balancing testosterone and estrogen isn’t sufficient, we check prolactin levels. In men, prolactin can kill sex drive and make climax elusive. If prolactin is elevated, our physicians can prescribe medication to reduce it.
PDE-5 Inhibitors
- If symptoms remain after hormones are balanced, our physicians may prescribe a PDE-5 inhibitor. While PDE-5 inhibitors do nothing for sex drive, they do increase nitric oxide levels in the blood, making it easier to get and maintain an erection. Brand names like Cialis, Viagra, and Levitra are available in generic form.
- PDE-5 inhibitors can be mixed with other medications to enhance arousal, thereby increasing their effectiveness. Our physicians can work with you to determine what to try, and in what order.
- PDE-5 inhibitors can cause side effects in some men, they don’t work for others, and they are sometimes contraindicated due to other pre-existing health conditions. If PDE-5 inhibitors aren’t a good fit, we continue on.
Other Solutions
If balanced hormones and PDE-5 inhibitors don’t completely resolve sexual dysfunction, we have other solutions at our disposal:
- A vasodilator can be topically applied to the penis to increase blood flow.
- L-Arginine is an amino acid that increases nitric oxide levels in the blood, thereby increasing blood flow. L-Arginine is best taken by injection, and can be tried before, after, or in conjunction with any of the above.
- The hormone oxytocin stimulates the desire for closeness and intimacy, resulting in greater sexual desire, improved function, and better orgasms. Apomorphine is a medication that stimulates dopamine in the brain to enhance the sexual response. Either one or both of these can be taken on an as needed basis prior to sex.
- Bremelanotide (also known as PT-141) is a peptide that increases arousal, improves the quality of erections, and enhances orgasm. Bremelanotide is taken by injection or by mouth prior to sex.
Penile Injections
If none of the above is effective with regard to E.D., penile injections are the safety net. They work for almost everyone, and we have many clients who swear by them. Some quick facts about this approach:
- Penile injections contain ingredients that stimulate an erection when injected into the penis.
- Penile injections are self-administered using a very small needle.
- With our physicians’ supervision, instructions are given to titrate dosing to pinpoint exactly the right amount.
- When done correctly, these injections do not hurt, and they work quickly.
The progression listed above alleviates sexual dysfunction for 99% of our clients. Sex is an important part of life. Apart from being enjoyable, having regular sex actually helps men to live longer. Don’t suffer in silence with sexual dysfunction. Let’s do something about it.