“I’m 50 years old and am having trouble with intimacy. I am worried this is affecting my relationship with my partner. What can I do?”

Answer sponsored by:

Dr. Robert Grand, M.D. Urologist

3 E. Appleby Rd Suite 201 • Fayetteville • (479) 404-1100

Answer:

Intimacy can be a sensitive issue, but you are not alone, and treatment options are available. Low sex drive is also called loss of libido and has multiple causes including lifestyle habits, medications, diet and psychological factors.

The first thing that you can do to improve your libido is to follow a healthy lifestyle. This includes daily exercise and eating a healthy diet. The Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains, has been shown to improve libido and reduce the incidence of erectile dysfunction in men. Try to avoid foods containing refined oils such as canola oil, refined grains such as those in white bread and pasta, and foods with added sugar.

Medications can also impact libido. Pain medications and mood stabilizers are most commonly associated with low libido, but other medications can also cause this side effect. Be sure to talk with your primary care provider if you are taking a medication that you think is affecting your libido.

Stress is strongly associated with changes in libido. If you are going through a stressful time in your life, be aware that this can affect your sexual performance.

If you continue to experience low libido despite making lifestyle changes, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor. For more information or to request an appointment at Washington Regional Ozark Urology, please call 479-404-1100.