Sexual Problems in Men

Difficulty reaching orgasm or ejaculating is also known as inhibited or delayed orgasm. Not being able to have an orgasm at all is called anorgasmia. Both problems can interfere with sexual pleasure.

Difficulty reaching orgasm can be caused by a number of underlying medical conditions, including

• side effects from medications
• nerve damage from surgery, injuries or medical conditions
• stress or anxiety.

Let's start with medications. A variety of medications can affect the ability to achieve orgasm, including drugs used to treat the following conditions

• depression and other psychiatric conditions
• chronic pain
• seizures.

Drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are one of the most common causes of inhibited orgasm. Drugs in this family include fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and escitalopram (Lexapro). Keep in mind that these antidepressant drugs may be used to treat a variety of other conditions including anxiety and stress.

Are you taking any prescription or non-prescription medications, particularly for one of the conditions listed above? Yes, I am taking one or more of these drugs. No, I am not.

START OVER    PREVIOUS

Online Medical Reviewer: Faculty of Harvard Medical School Date Last Reviewed: 5/30/2006 Date Last Modified: 5/23/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

Related About.com Content

• STDs

• Men's Health

• Longevity