Viagra Can Create Relationship Problems As Well As Solve Them

Main Category: Erectile Dysfunction / Premature Ejaculation
Also Included In: Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 16 Apr 2007 - 0:00 PST

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For many men, the erectile-dysfunction drugs Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are the answer to their prayers. But, according to Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond, a new report from Harvard Medical School, these pills offer no help in untangling the emotional and relationship pressures that frequently accompany erectile dysfunction (ED).

For one thing, the medications work only if the man is feeling sexual desire for his partner. If emotional issues are impinging on libido, the pills won't help. A man struggling with ED may be so embarrassed that he is no longer willing to attempt sexual activity, and his partner may mistakenly believe that he is no longer attracted to her. She may assume that her partner's newfound erections are merely a chemical phenomenon, not the result of his interest in her. In these cases, sex therapy may be helpful.

When intercourse is suddenly a possibility again, relationship issues can emerge or resurface, as can dramatic differences in libido. The bottom line is that couples should try to regard these drugs as an opportunity to renew their sexual relationship, while realizing that ED drugs are neither a mandate to have intercourse nor a panacea for every problem in the bedroom.

Harvard Health Publications
Harvard Medical School 10 Shattuck St., Ste. 612
Cambridge, MA 02115
United States
http://www.health.harvard.edu

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