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Four of 10 women and three of 10 men experience sexual problems, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The most common problems reported by women were low sexual desire (22 percent), problems with arousal (14 percent) and pain during intercourse (7 percent). Men most commonly reported problems with premature ejaculation (21 percent), erectile dysfunction (5 percent) and low desire (5 percent).
Lifestyle Changes
Here are some ways to deal with your sexual problem. Remember, sex is one of the most important parts of your relationship and a vital piece of who you are.
- Talk with your partner. Discuss how to please each other. Discussing changes in sexual response, erectile dysfunction or a loss of sex drive helps deal with the problem. Communication is your best tool for fighting problems in the bedroom.
- Take your time. Some may need more manual stimulation or foreplay.
- Find a doctor who you trust and feel comfortable with.
- Set up romantic dates with your significant other.
- Remember what attracted you to your partner in the first place.
- Get in shape, exercise and eat a balanced diet. Taking care of yourself is one step to a positive body image and self esteem. Exercise can also help you reduce stress.
- See a doctor right away if you think you are depressed.
- Take care of your stress levels.
Herbs
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Herb |
Claims |
Possible Interactions, Side Effects and Dangers |
What the experts say |
| Black cohosh |
Can help with menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness. |
Do not take if you have breast cancer, uterine cancer, endometriosis, a history of blood clots, allergies to aspirin or a history of seizures. Do not take this for more than three months. May interact with hormone replacement, birth control pills and blood pressure medications. May cause dizziness, stomach upset, headache and weight gain. |
Although there have been many studies involving this herb, the evidence is still lacking. Experts still don't know much about its risks and benefits. |
| Yohimbe bark extract |
Treats erectile dysfunction, loss of sex drive in women and sexual side effects from SSRI medications. |
Cases of kidney failure, seizures and death have been reported. May cause anxiety attacks. May interact with blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, antihistamines, morphine, phenelzine and benzodiazepines. May also cause low red blood cell count and heart failure. May lead to skin flushing, cough, rash, chest discomfort, change in blood pressure, dizziness, headache, problems with urination and muscle aches. |
It is unsafe and does not work in humans. Do not take this. |
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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