If you’ve found yourself here, then you’re likely searching for reasons and solutions as to why you (or possibly your significant other) are experiencing men’s sexual health struggles.
Maybe you’ve noticed some changes in “performance” or that things aren’t “working” like they used to? Perhaps your sex drive has either slowly or suddenly tanked? You might even have recently found out you’re dealing with fertility or reproductive issues.
We understand that, as men, these topics can be a bit difficult to talk about and address. But trust us, you are not alone. Sexual health issues like low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and infertility affect millions of men at every age and stage of life. Yes, even men in their 30s or younger.
How these issues impact your sex life and self-esteem is probably your biggest concern. However, the sexual wellness struggles you are experiencing aren’t just “performance” problems. In some cases, they could also be a warning sign of another health issue.
In this article, we’ll discuss why men’s sexual health is important, explain why they shouldn’t be ignored, and explore the most safe, modern, and effective treatment options and enhancements available that will not only have you feeling like yourself again but potentially improve your overall health and quality of life for years to come.
Why Men’s Sexual Health is Important
If you have sexual health issues, we understand you are probably frustrated as to how it impacts your vitality and things in the bedroom. That’s fair; having self-confidence and a satisfying sex life is important.
However, many of the sexual health issues men face can also be early warning signs of health issues that need attention. Optimal sexual function is often connected to many aspects of your health—your cardiovascular system, hormones, nervous system, metabolic health, immune system, and mental health.
Take erectile dysfunction (ED), for example. It’s not just frustrating; most people don’t know this, but ED commonly appears as the initial sign of underlying cardiovascular disease. Research shows that ED often precedes a heart attack or stroke by 3-5 years.
That’s because the blood vessels in the penis are smaller than those in the heart, so they show damage sooner. When those vessels can’t dilate properly due to plaque buildup or inflammation, it’s often a preview of what’s happening throughout your entire cardiovascular system.
Then, there is low testosterone, which can cause decreased libido, erectile issues, fatigue, weight gain, muscle loss, and mood changes. But having low testosterone doesn’t only affect your sex life and aesthetics.
Low testosterone in men is also linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, fertility issues, and even the risk of earlier mortality. Even minor hormonal imbalances can have health consequences.
Of course, it depends on the root cause, but when left untreated, men’s sexual health issues can potentially contribute to:
- Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Relationship Problems
- Sleep Disorders
- Chronic Fatigue
- Accelerated Aging
- Cognitive Decline
- Muscle Loss & Weakness
- Increased inflammation (which affects nearly every system in your body)
Beyond the physical, your sexual health also directly impacts your mental wellbeing and relationships. Men experiencing sexual health issues often report higher levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and relationship strain.
These emotional effects can create a loop that only makes things worse—stress and poor sleep raise cortisol levels, and cortisol is a known testosterone killer. Before you know it, the cycle is feeding itself and impacting every part of your life.
Bottom line: Addressing sexual health concerns isn’t just about improving your sex life—it’s about taking control of your overall health and potentially adding years of quality living. Brushing off symptoms of poor sexual health isn’t just unnecessary—it could be risky to your long-term health and vitality.
Common Sexual Health Issues Men Face
Men’s sexual health issues, like a decline in testosterone, low sex drive, and erectile dysfunction, are more common with age, but they can affect men at any stage of life. These concerns can range from mild to severe and may have physical, psychological, or combined causes.
Here are some of the most common sexual health challenges men experience and how they can impact your sexual wellness, vitality, and overall health:
Low Testosterone or Other Hormone Imbalances
Hormone imbalances, specifically low testosterone, are often the root cause of many of the sexual health issues men face that we’ll be talking about.
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, fat distribution, and mood regulation. After age 30, men typically experience a gradual decline in testosterone production of about 1% per year on average. However, individual rates of decline can vary.
While aging is a primary factor in testosterone decline, other contributors like poor lifestyle habits, certain medications, underlying medical conditions, and even exposure to environmental toxins or endocrine-disrupting chemicals (found in some plastics, pesticides, and processed foods) can also play a role in lowering testosterone levels.
When testosterone levels fall significantly below the normal range, men may experience one or more of the most common men’s health issues:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased semen volume
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Increased body fat (especially around the abdomen)
- Fatigue and low energy
- Mood changes, including irritability and depression
- Cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”)
- Sleep disturbances
It is important to note that most symptoms of low testosterone typically develop gradually rather than suddenly, leading many men to overlook them or attribute them to ‘just getting older’ rather than recognizing them as a treatable hormonal condition. If you notice one or more of these issues and they persist or worsen over time, you should make an appointment to have your hormones checked.
Additionally, testosterone isn’t the only hormone that can become imbalanced in men and lead to sexual wellness struggles. Other key hormones like DHEA, estrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormones can also become too high or too low and play a role in everything from libido and performance to mood and energy levels.
Hormone imbalances don’t just mess with your sex drive—they can affect every part of your health and quality of life. That’s why a thorough hormone panel should be part of every man’s yearly health check. If your hormones are the root cause, a personalized treatment plan that usually involves testosterone replacement therapy and/or peptide therapy can be a game-changer.
Identifying and correcting hormone imbalances is one of the most powerful ways to restore vitality, improve sexual wellness, and feel like yourself again. Addressing them early can also prevent more serious health issues.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction—the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual activity—is the most common sexual disorder in men. While occasional difficulty is totally normal, persistent problems are a red flag that something more serious could be happening and should not be ignored.
ED affects approximately 30 million men in the United States alone, with prevalence increasing dramatically with age. By age 70, about 70% of men experience some degree of erectile difficulty. However, ED is not exclusively an older man’s issue; nearly 25% of men seeking help for ED are under 40.
There are many possible causes of ED. However, vascular issues are the most common physical cause, as erections depend on healthy blood flow to the penis. When arteries narrow due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), blood flow becomes restricted. This is why ED often appears before other cardiovascular symptoms—the smaller penile arteries show damage before larger vessels in the heart.
Other potential physical causes of ED include:
- Hormonal imbalances (particularly low testosterone)
- Medication side effects
- Anatomical abnormalities or injuries
- Neurological conditions affecting nerve signals to the penis
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity
Psychological factors can also play a significant role in many ED cases. Performance anxiety, stress, depression, relationship problems, and past traumatic experiences can all contribute to erectile difficulties.
Premature Ejaculation (PE)
Premature ejaculation—ejaculating sooner than desired, typically within one minute of penetration—is among the most common sexual dysfunctions in men. While nearly all men experience PE occasionally, chronic PE is not normal and can significantly impact sexual satisfaction and relationship quality.
PE can be classified as lifelong (present since first sexual experiences) or acquired (developing after previously normal function). Causes include:
- Neurobiological factors (hypersensitivity of the ejaculatory reflex)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Inflammation or infection of the prostate or urethra
- Psychological factors such as anxiety, guilt, or depression
- Relationship issues
- Early sexual experiences that conditioned rapid ejaculation
Many men with PE also develop secondary erectile dysfunction due to performance anxiety, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break without proper treatment.
Delayed Ejaculation
The complete opposite of PE is delayed ejaculation. This occurs when a man needs a significant amount of time and sexual stimulation to reach orgasm or cannot ejaculate at all despite adequate stimulation and desire.
This condition can be situational (occurring only in certain circumstances) or persistent. Physical causes include nerve damage, hormonal issues, and medication side effects, particularly from certain antidepressants. Psychological factors such as relationship problems, religious or cultural taboos, and past traumatic experiences can also contribute.
Peyronie’s Disease
While less common, Peyronie’s disease is worth mentioning. This is a men’s sexual health disease that involves the development of fibrous scar tissue (plaque) inside the penis, causing curved, painful erections.
The condition affects about 6% of men between the ages of 40 and 70, though many cases go undiagnosed due to embarrassment. The exact cause remains unknown, but Peyronie’s typically develops following trauma to the penis (often minor injuries during sexual activity) in men with genetic predisposition.
In addition to the physical curvature, Peyronie’s can cause significant pain, erectile dysfunction, and psychological distress. Unlike some sexual health issues that resolve with time, Peyronie’s disease rarely improves without treatment and may progressively worsen if left unaddressed.
Low Libido (Decreased Sexual Desire)
While women’s low desire issues receive more attention, many men also experience periods of reduced interest in sex. While it might not seem normal, we promise you aren’t alone.
Low libido is something most men face at some point in their lives. However, when low and especially no sexual desire becomes persistent and causes personal distress, it’s classified as male hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Low libido in men typically stems from:
- Hormonal imbalances (low testosterone, elevated prolactin)
- Chronic illness (especially cardiovascular disease and diabetes)
- Mental health issues (depression, anxiety, stress)
- Medication side effects
- Relationship problems
- Lifestyle factors (poor sleep, inadequate exercise, substance use)
- Age-related changes
In most cases, a lack of desire creeps in. However, if low desire develops suddenly, it can be the first sign of an underlying medical condition requiring attention.
Popular Treatments and Innovative Enhancements for Men’s Sexual Function and Wellness
Whatever has you concerned about your sexual wellness, if you’re like most men, you are probably hoping the problem will either resolve on its own or that there is a simple solution.
After all, men are supposed to handle their problems without complaint, right? Wrong.
When it comes to men’s sexual health, silence isn’t a sign of strength; it’s a missed opportunity for better intimacy, more self-confidence, and, in many cases, a better overall quality of life.
Many men make the mistake of thinking that sexual health issues are inevitable with age, and there just isn’t anything they can do about it. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While certain changes are normal as you age, sexual wellness issues are not inevitable and are often treatable with modern treatments and enhancements.
Most of these treatments often do more than mask or treat symptoms; they identify and address root causes while optimizing overall sexual wellness. Here are the most effective evidence-based options currently available for men’s sexual wellness:
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
For men with clinically low testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy is the gold standard for restoring testosterone to a healthy range. Beyond improving libido and erectile function, optimized testosterone levels can enhance energy, mood, cognitive function, body composition, and overall quality of life.
Modern TRT typically utilizes bioidentical hormones, which are hormones that are molecularly identical to what your body naturally produces. They can be delivered through various methods, such as injections, topicals, patches, and pellet implants.
For years, many people didn’t consider TRT due to alleged safety concerns. Thankfully, a lot of clinical research has debunked myths about TRT’s safety over the years. The most recent and significant being in 2025 when the FDA removed the boxed warning regarding cardiovascular risks from testosterone products.
This removal came about following the TRAVERSE clinical trial, which found no increased cardiovascular risk in men using properly prescribed testosterone therapy. That trial concluded what those of us in functional medicine have known for a long time– when properly administered following comprehensive testing and with regular monitoring, TRT has an excellent safety profile.
While testosterone is the most common hormonal issue that men encounter, a qualified healthcare provider will evaluate all of your hormone levels and biomarkers to ensure an optimal balance. Sometimes, other forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be necessary to achieve this balance.
The most important factor in safe, effective HRT is working with experienced practitioners who specialize in hormonal health and can develop a personalized protocol based on your comprehensive blood panel results, unique biochemistry, symptoms, risk factors, and overall health history.
Erectile Dysfunction Medications and Treatments
Oral medications like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) remain first-line treatments for ED. These PDE5 inhibitors work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical that relaxes penile muscles and increases blood flow.
While these medications are effective for many men, they’re not the only option. Trimix, which is an injectable combination of three vasodilating medications (papaverine, phentolamine, and prostaglandin E1), is a newer ED solution for men who don’t respond adequately to oral medications.
Trimix is self-administered via a tiny needle directly into the penis and typically produces an erection within 5-15 minutes that lasts 1-2 hours, regardless of arousal state.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy utilizes growth factors from your blood to potentially enhance sexual function. The procedure involves drawing blood, processing it to concentrate platelets and growth factors, then injecting this concentrate into specific areas of the penis.
These growth factors may stimulate tissue regeneration, enhance blood flow, and improve nerve sensitivity. Some men report stronger erections, increased sensation, and even modest gains in size, though results vary significantly between individuals.
While more clinical research is needed, many men who haven’t responded well to other treatments report very high satisfaction with PRP therapy. Another thing that makes PRP more appealing to some is a lower risk of side effects since it uses your blood components.
Peptide Therapies
Peptides are one of the most exciting newcomers in sexual wellness. These short chains of amino acids serve as signaling molecules in the body and can address many health issues, including multiple aspects of sexual health and function.
While clinical trials and human studies are still lacking, many peptides are showing promise in improving multiple areas of sexual wellness. Some of the most popular peptides being used for men’s sexual wellness include:
- PT-141 (Bremelanotide): PT-141 works by turning on the part of the brain that controls sexual arousal, making it a promising option for treating sexual dysfunction. It was primarily studied and used for treating women’s sexual desire disorders, but it is showing promise for men with sexual dysfunction. Animal studies showed that when tested on men—both with and without erectile dysfunction—it led to a quick, noticeable increase in erection quality, depending on the dose.
- BPC-157 and TB-500: These regenerative peptides are primarily known for supporting tissue healing and wound healing. While research on their direct effects on sexual health is limited, many patients see positive effects using these peptides to address ED-related issues due to tissue damage or inflammation.
- Growth Hormone Secretagogues: Peptides like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin stimulate natural growth hormone production, which can improve body composition, energy, and potentially sexual function in men with age-related hormonal decline.
Vacuum Erection Devices
Vacuum erection devices, sometimes called penis pumps, are external pumps that can help create a suction that draws blood into the penis, followed by a constriction ring to help men reach and maintain an erection. Success rates vary, and the results are temporary as these devices do not address the root cause of ED. However, they could be a possible alternative for men who cannot take certain medications or prefer a non-pharmaceutical approach.
Penile Implants
For men with severe ED who don’t respond to other treatments, surgically implanted devices offer a permanent solution with high satisfaction rates. Modern implants are nearly undetectable and allow for spontaneous intimacy with natural-feeling erections.
Lifestyle Changes for Improved Sexual Health
Sometimes, making small changes to your daily habits can have a significant impact on sexual health. Additionally, men’s sexual wellness treatments often work best when combined with lifestyle practices that support optimal sexual function.
Here are some lifestyle optimization tips for improved sexual health:
Exercise
One of the best ways to improve your sexual health is through regular physical activity. Both strength training and cardio have numerous benefits that can contribute to better sexual health.
There are many reasons for this. For starters, physical activity, particularly strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), naturally boosts testosterone production and improves cardiovascular health—both essential for optimal sexual function.
While there might be more test-boosting benefits to strength training and HIIT, even low-impact exercise, like swimming and walking, can have a significant impact on your sexual health. These low-impact activities build endurance, boost blood flow, improve flexibility and strength, and reduce stress.
Exercise also boosts whole-body blood flow (including below the belt), which is crucial for erectile function and strong erections. Strong blood flow helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissues that support erections, contributing to better sexual performance.
You might also want to throw in some core exercises and even kegels. A strong core supports almost everything you do, including how well you “perform” between the sheets.
As for Kegels, you might think these exercises are only for women, but they are also shown to help men prevent premature ejaculation, enhance erectile function, and improve overall pelvic floor strength.
Nutritional Support
We know you’ve heard it a million times… you are what you eat. This statement holds true for all areas of health, including sexual health.
Eating healthy won’t only make you feel better and help you maintain a healthy weight—both of which are key for sexual wellbeing—but there are specific nutrients you might want to pay special attention to for optimal performance.
- Foods that boost nitric oxide: Nitric oxide is essential for improving blood flow, which is crucial for sexual function. Foods like beets, dark leafy greens (like spinach and kale), and watermelon are rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, helping to enhance circulation and erectile function.
- Zinc-rich foods: Zinc is essential for testosterone production and overall sexual health. Oysters, pumpkin seeds, and beef are excellent sources of zinc, helping maintain healthy hormone levels and optimal sperm production.
- Healthy fats: Healthy fats support hormone production and joint health, both of which are vital for sexual function. Incorporate foods like olive oil, avocados, and nuts (like almonds and walnuts) to provide your body with essential fatty acids that support overall well-being and balanced hormone levels.
- Antioxidant-rich foods: Antioxidants help protect blood vessels and improve vascular health, which is crucial for sexual performance. Berries (like blueberries and strawberries) and dark chocolate (with at least 70% cocoa) are loaded with antioxidants that support blood flow and reduce inflammation, benefiting your cardiovascular and sexual health.
In addition to what you should eat for sexual wellness, the foods you should limit or avoid are of equal importance. Alcohol, processed foods, sugary snacks, and trans fats can all negatively impact sexual wellness and performance.
Excessive alcohol consumption can reduce testosterone levels and impair erectile function, while processed foods high in unhealthy fats and sugars can contribute to weight gain, poor circulation, and hormone imbalances. Limiting these foods can help maintain optimal sexual health and overall well-being.
If you believe that you could have a nutritional deficiency or struggle to get these nutrients from diet alone, it might also be worth considering supplements and IV vitamin therapy.
Sleep Optimization
Poor sleep is strongly associated with numerous factors that have a negative impact on sexual wellness. For starters, not getting enough quality sleep is tied to reduced testosterone production and erectile difficulties.
Insufficient sleep can also lead to increased cortisol levels, which can further suppress testosterone production. Additionally, lack of sleep impacts energy levels and can impair dopamine function, affecting mood, sexual motivation, and satisfaction.
Prioritizing 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can go a long way in supporting hormonal balance, reducing stress, and enhancing overall sexual vitality.
Stress Management
Chronic stress is a significant disruptor of sexual health. When stress levels are high, cortisol increases, and as we’ve mentioned several times already, prolonged elevated cortisol can directly suppress testosterone production, which can lead to numerous sexual health issues.
High stress also impacts other aspects of sexual wellness. Increased cortisol can lead to poor sleep, fatigue, and reduced energy—all of which can lower sexual desire and make it harder to maintain an erection. Furthermore, stress can contribute to mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, which often worsen sexual function.
Psychological and Relationship-Based Approaches
For many men, sexual difficulties are psychological. If this is the case, sex therapy can help address performance anxiety, communication barriers, and other psychological factors contributing to sexual dysfunction.
Sex therapy sessions can be conducted solo or as a couple. Your therapist might use or suggest something called cognitive-behavioral techniques. These are simple techniques like mindfulness, sensate focus, and guided imagery, which can help men overcome mental blocks to sexual enjoyment and performance.
Sex therapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques are often all that is needed to improve sexual function and emotional well-being, but they are particularly effective when combined with physical treatments.
When and Where To Seek Professional Help For Men’s Sexual Wellness Issues
Many men delay seeking help for sexual wellness concerns, often waiting until symptoms become severe or persistent before reaching out to a healthcare provider. This hesitation is understandable but potentially harmful to both your sexual and overall health.
Unlike many health issues that might improve without intervention, sexual dysfunction rarely resolves on its own and often worsens over time. The moment you notice consistent changes in your sexual function—whether it’s signs of low testosterone, difficulty maintaining erections, decreased libido, or ejaculation issues—it’s time to consult a healthcare professional.
Even better is staying ahead of your sexual wellness before problems arise. Regular preventive care can identify risk factors and early warning signs before they develop into noticeable symptoms.
Every man should establish baseline health metrics through annual physical exams and regular blood work that includes hormone panels. These preventive measures allow your healthcare provider to identify subtle shifts in your health that might impact sexual function down the road.
For aging men and men with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or a family history of hormonal issues, these exams and labs are even more critical.
At Relive Health, we take a personalized, whole-person approach to men’s sexual health. Whether you are interested in hormone replacement therapy for men or other modern regenerative medicine options such as peptides, we’d love to help.
Use our clinic locator to find a Relive Health location near you. With the customized treatment plan, most men quickly see significant improvements in their sexual health, overall well-being, and vitality.
