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during the mid to late stages of adulthood for men, and they also express less desire for sex, or have increased sexual response times. Left untreated or misunderstood, these situations can lead to extended periods where there are no sexual encounters at all. As a result, depressive states may become more profound, and neither party will be capable of reaching the orgasmic stage. It is possible however, for both men and women to achieve a sexually pleasurable state if they are willing to explore one another and be stimulated by kissing, caressing and touching. It is not unusual for a couple with premature ejaculation and orgasmic disorders to resolve their own problems and resume a healthy sex life when they have a clear understanding of their sexuality and the needs of their partner.

The National Health and Social Life Survey (NHSLS) (Laumann et al., 1994) found that "Higher percentages of women reported problems in the areas of painful sex, lack of pleasure, inability to reach orgasm, and lack of interest in sex. Higher percentages of men reported reaching orgasm too early and being anxious about their performance." As was previously mentioned, physical ailments as well as psychological problems can be the cause of sexual dysfunction. Diabetes can cause both male and females to have a lower level of testosterone, which can deplete the sex drive of both parties. A person who is overweight has heart disease, or who abuses alcohol can also experience a substantial decrease in libido.

Eric Rim (2000) from the Harvard School of Public Health also concluded that men with high cholesterol levels can also have a reduced blood flow to the penis, resulting in the inability to experience or maintain an erection. Ironically, drugs taken to reduce cholesterol levels can also cause erectile dysfunction, as can anti-depressants, anticonvulsants, and some diuretics. (Ashton et al., 2000; Michelson et al., 2000; Ralph & McNicholas, 2000). It can be said then, that overall physical health, or lack of it, can be a contributing factor to sexual dysfunction. The same can also be said for psychological health, because anxiety can also inhibit one's sexual performance. The need to please a partner or not being reassured of competence in the bedroom can lead to repeated unsatisfying sexual encounters. Subsequent events may be associated with previous disappointments which helps the continuation of the cycle.

Irrational beliefs about one's own performance and a low self-esteem are mostly to blame for this type of condition. By reducing ignorance about sex, and introducing the concept of various nondemand encounters, most couples will find that they will soon overcome anxiety and enjoy a more calm and relaxed approach toward the subject of sex. As a result, it is likely that a pleasurable experience will soon follow without being prompted.

Reference

Nevid, J.S., & Rathus, S.A. (2005). Psychology and the challenges of life: Adjustment in the new millennium (9th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

Learn more about this author, Kerry Hosking.
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