What is the most common cause of sex problems among men and women?

While they can take many forms, sexual problems are defined as any physical or emotional issue that prevents a couple from achieving a mutually satisfying intimate relationship.

Among the most common for men include:

• premature ejaculation
• prostate problems
• a decrease in the blood supply to the penis because of diabetes
• heart disease
• nerve damage to the spinal cord
• decrease in the hormone testosterone.

Studies show that it is premature ejaculation which can affect up to 75 per cent of men.

Clinically, it is defined as the release of the ejaculate from the penis either before intercourse can take place, or quickly after it starts, usually within less than 15 thrusts.

While every man will experience premature ejaculation at least once in their life, for some, the problem is chronic. When this is the case, causes can be linked to a highly sensitive and easily stimulated nervous system, obsessive compulsive disorder, or sometimes a lack of control over the body's response to excitement.

A frequently overlooked cause of temporary premature ejaculation is an infection in the prostate gland known as prostatitis. When this is the case, a course of antibiotics often solves the problem. Temporary problems can also result from stress, or from the use of certain medications, including some cold pills.

Treatments for chronic premature ejaculation include the antidepressant medication Anafranil, taken 12 hours before sex, and use of a condom to help reduce sensation. Sometimes a prescription lidocaine cream can also help by reducing sensation, but that can also impact the partner.

Common sexual problems in women include:

a lack of desire caused by a decrease in the hormone oestrogen

thyroid disorders (which can also affect some men)

pain during intercourse caused by any number of vaginal problems, including a lack of lubrication.

Some couples also find that the use of certain drugs can also cause sexual problems. These include alcohol, nicotine, narcotics, stimulants, some blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, and certain antidepressant medications.

Adapted from medicinemet.com.