There are men who do not enjoy sex as much as other people because of how worried and stressed out they get while doing the deed. They just cannot stop thinking about how well they are performing or whether their partner is having a good or terrible time. Because their minds are filled with these kinds of thoughts, they end up having trouble getting an erection or achieving an orgasm, leaving their partners unsatisfied and disappointed, and themselves humiliated.
What is sexual performance anxiety and what causes it?
Sexual performance anxiety is a condition in which a person fails to perform at their best during sex because of worrying too much, stress, and other factors that prevent them from giving all of their focus on sex.
Below are some common worries, fears, and concerns that can affect sexual performance:
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Worrying about penis size
There are men who are insecure about their penis size. They constantly wonder if they measure up to their sex partner’s previous sexual partners, or if they are big enough to satisfy.
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Weight issues
Some men who are overweight, obese, or out of shape may suffer from body image issues that can prevent them from fully enjoying their sexual encounters.
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Sexual inexperience
Men who do not have a lot of sexual experience may be hesitant during sex because they have this fear of not knowing enough about sex to be able to perform well.
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Anxiety about ejaculating or reaching orgasm
Constantly thinking about when the right time to ejaculate or orgasm is may negatively affect a man’s sexual performance. Their minds are flooded with thoughts of whether it is too early or they are taking too long, causing an increase in their anxiety levels.
These situations may cause your body to increase its production of epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are stress hormones, raising your stress levels and impairing your sexual performance.
Moreover, sexual performance anxiety can also be caused by physical and mental factors, such as:
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Reduced testosterone levels
In men, testosterone is the primary sex hormone that is in charge of several important male sexual and reproductive functions. So, if there is not enough testosterone in the body, there is an increased risk of sexual health problems.
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Smoking, alcoholism, and drug abuse
Cigarettes, alcohol, and illicit drugs contain elements that can do serious harm and damage to the body. They are detrimental not only to your heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and brain, but they are also threats to your testosterone production, erections, sperm count, and other sexual and reproductive functions.
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Poor mental health
Having depression, anxiety, or some other mental health problem can contribute to sexual performance anxiety, so getting professional help as soon as possible is advised.
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Stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and others
These diseases can significantly impair your vital organs, such as your heart, brain, and kidneys, making it difficult to get your sex drive up and be at your best during sex.
There are also certain medications that can negatively affect sexual performance. Below are some examples:
- Hormone therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Antidepressants
- High blood pressure medications
- Chemotherapy
- Prostate medications
- Muscle relaxers
If you are taking any of these, you should pay your doctor a visit as soon as you get the chance so that you can be given alternative medications that will not disrupt your sexual functions and increase your risk of sexual performance anxiety.
What should you do to protect yourself against male sexual performance anxiety?
The impact of sexual performance anxiety varies for every man, but some signs and symptoms that usually manifest include:
- Reduced sexual desire or libido
- Inability to achieve orgasm
- Premature ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction
If you experience any of these, you have to go see your doctor to get a proper diagnose and receive the appropriate treatment. You should also make smarter and healthier lifestyle changes, such as:
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Not dwelling on the past
You should not let one or a few disappointing or embarrassing sexual encounters stop you from having sex. It is perfectly normal for men to occasionally have difficulty get an erection, maintain an erection, or achieve an orgasm, especially if they are dealing with sad or unfortunate events in their lives. If you let your past sexual failures drag you into a cycle of sexual performance anxiety, you are only increasing your risk of various sexual and reproductive health concerns that not only can ruin your sex life but also other aspects of your life.
What you should do is examine the negative event, and identify what may have caused it. You probably were dealing with too much stress at work or were so worried about your finances at that time. Then, think of solutions to the problem. Find ways to better manage your stress levels, so as your libido and sexual performance are not affected. Try meditation, yoga, or taking a relaxing vacation.
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Exercising on a regular basis
Several research studies have found that exercise offers a ton of benefits to a man’s sexual health. In one study, it showed how regular physical activity, even for just 20 to 30 minutes a few times a week, reduced stress levels and symptoms of erectile dysfunction. It also tracked an increase in testosterone production, resulting in improvements in sperm count, sperm quality, and sperm motility.
Cardiovascular exercises, high-intensity interval training, and weight training are some highly recommended exercise regimens for optimal sexual health. They can help facilitate blood circulation and flow in the body, enhancing erections and boosting sexual stamina.
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Getting sex therapy
Sex therapy is a kind of therapy in which people get help for their personal, interpersonal, psychological, or medical problems that affect their sex lives. It aims to assist individuals and couples in their efforts to overcome emotional, mental, and physical obstacles, and enjoy a happy and harmonious life with many pleasurable and satisfying sexual experiences.
