A better sex life takes more than popping a pill

A better sex life takes more than popping a pill Image: iStock The never-ending advertisements for erectile dysfunction drugs seem to suggest that popping a pill is all it takes to guarantee a great sex life for men dealing with this challenging problem. But a satisfying sex life takes a lot more than functioning body parts — erectile dysfunction can set in motion a cycle of emotional and relationship problems. And "fixing" the ability to achieve an erection may uncover other sources of sexual dysfunction, such as low libido, difficulties with arousal, or sexual issues in a partner. Get your copy of Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond The physical transformations the body undergoes with age have a major influence on  sexuality. This report will take you through the stages of sexual response and explain how aging affects each. You’ll also learn how chronic illnesses, common medications, and emotional issues can influence your sexual capabilities. Finally, you’ll find a detailed discussion of various medical treatments, counseling, and self-help techniques to address the most common types of sexual problems. In these situations, your sex life may need some expert advice, and a sex therapist can help. He or she can help you determine whether you and your partner are both comfortable with using erectile dysfunction drugs. adapt your lovemaking to coincide with when the medication takes effect. talk about what makes sex pleasurable for both partners. For example, some people need more romantic time that includes talking, affection, and sensual touching before moving to sexual activity. explore expectations about the sexual relationship. The therapist can help you accept that sex will sometimes be okay instead of great, that arousal problems may still occur despite erectile dysfunction drugs, and that these medications won't work without desire and physical stimulation. delve into emotional and relationship issues that are interfering with intimacy. create strategies to deal with instances of unsuccessful intercourse. To learn more about how sex can change for older adults and how to realize the full potential of later-life sex, check out Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School. Share this story: Featured in this issue Sexuality in Midlife and Beyond Featured content: • Understanding sexuality • Trends in sexual behavior among older adults • Emotional and social issues • Health problems and sexuality • Treating common sexual problems •  ... and more! Click here to read more » Harvard Medical School offers special reports on over 50 health topics. Visit our website at http://www.health.harvard.edu to find reports of interest to you and your family. PHONE ORDERS - please call our toll-free number: 1-877-649-9457. You are currently subscribed to HEALTHbeat as dr.samah.saied.ahmed@gmail.com. UNSUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE TO HEALTHbeat VIEW HEALTHbeat ARCHIVES PRIVACY POLICY Visit our website at: www.health.harvard.edu Email us at: healthbeat@health.harvard.edu FOLLOW US ON:  Facebook Twitter Copyright © 2015 by Harvard University. Harvard Health Publications, 10 Shattuck Street, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02115, USA * Please note, we do not provide responses to personal medical concerns, nor can we supply related medical information other than what is available in our print products or website. For specific, personalized medical advice we encourage you to contact your physician.