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Impotence and Loss of Libido

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• Impotence
• Loss of Libido
• Additional Resources

Many men, especially as they age, have problems with impotence (erectile dysfunction) or loss of libido (reduced or lost interest in sex). Some men also have problems with ejaculation. Others actually have a condition that causes their testicles to fail to make the normal amount of testosterone. The good news is that treatment often can help many sexual problems.

Impotence

Many things can cause impotence, including having atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and other mental illnesses, pelvic surgery, kidney failure, multiple sclerosis, stroke, some types of epilepsy, and alcoholism. Some men who take medicines for heart disease or drugs that can affect the central nervous system, such as hormonal medicines or heroin and cocaine, are at higher risk for impotence.

Loss of Libido

Over the course of a man's life, stress, illness, medications, emotional problems, or reduced levels of male sex hormones can result in loss of libido. Also, at times, your interest and desire for sex might not match that of your partner, which is normal in long-term relationships.

Talking frankly with your partner and your doctor about sexual problems or loss of libido is the first step towards restoring sexual health.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Erectile Dysfunction — This brochure discusses the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), as well as ED research underway.

   http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/impotence/index.htm

2. Effects of Cancer Treatment on Male Sexuality (Copyright © ACS) — Both men and women may lose interest in sex during cancer treatment. This publication explores the effects that cancer treatment can have on men and their sex lives. It also discusses options that men and their partners can use to reclaim enjoyment and fertility.

   http://www.cancer.org/docroot/mit/content/mit_7_2x_cancer_treatments_effects_on_male_sexuality.asp?sitearea...

3. Erectile Dysfunction (Copyright © MFMER) — This site provides an overview of erectile dysfunction, including symptoms, causes, factors, treatment, prevention, and more. It also provides links to more information.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/MC00050

4. Erectile Dysfunction: What to Expect During Your Doctor Visit (Copyright © MFMER) — This resource suggests some possible questions your doctor may ask and topics that will most likely be discussed. It also addresses the procedures that may be included during a physical exam or lab test.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/erectile-dysfunction/MC00060/METHOD=print

5. Penile Implants — What To Expect and How To Prepare (Copyright © MFMER) — This Web site gives information on penile implants, which are used to treat erection problems. It reviews the procedure, the results, and risks.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/penile-implants/MC00056

6. Sex After 50: How to Hold on to the Passion (Copyright © MFMER) — This publication explains the physical and psychological changes that can affect sexual function as you age and how you can improve your sex life as you grow older.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sexual-health/HA00035

7. Testosterone Therapy: Can It Help Older Men Feel Young Again? (Copyright © MFMER) — This publication discusses the potential risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy.

   http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/testosterone-therapy/MC00030/METHOD=print

Organizations

1.   National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, NIDDK, NIH, HHS
2. American Society for Reproductive Medicine
3. Hormone Foundation
4. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
5. Resolve
6. Yale Fertility Center

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated June 1, 2009.