Relationship and Sexual Interest Concerns 

I HAVE A DECREASED INTEREST IN SEX 

• See a doctor to find out about treatments for ED 

• Let your partner know how you have been feeling 

• Get sexual counseling alone or with your partner 

I HAVE LOST DESIRE FOR MY PARTNER 

• Take time to identify problems that may affect your relationship. 

• Be honest with your partner about what you are feeling and decide together whether to work on the relationship or move forward separately 

• Get some counseling, alone or with your partner 

MY PARTNER SEEMS LESS INTERESTED IN SEX 

• Tell your partner you would like to have an active sex life again 

• Ask your partner what may be affecting their interest in sex 

• If your partner has pain with intercourse, encourage them to talk with an appropriate health care provider 

• Try sexual counseling with your partner 

Emotional Well-Being 

I THINK I AM DEPRESSED 

• Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and possible treatment options. 

• Start gradually on a regular exercise program 

• Try stress management, such as meditation, yoga, hiking, a hobby, or gardening. 

• If you still feel depressed, request a referral for a counselor. 

I AM ALWAYS NERVOUS OR ON EDGE 

• Try stress management, such as meditation, yoga, hiking, a hobby, or gardening. 

• Keep a diary of negative thoughts and practice replacing them with more balanced thoughts. 

• If you still feel anxious, request a referral for a counselor. 

Alcohol, Substance Use, and Energy 

I AM DRINKING HEAVILY 

• Ask your health care team what amount of alcohol is safe for you, especially if you have liver disease, heart disease, take medications, or are in cancer treatment. 

• Some drugs are meant to improve sex, but any boost may be brief, and regular use can create sexual problems. 

• Both marijuana and alcohol can make it harder for men to reach orgasm. 

Pain and Physical Symptoms 

I HAVE CHRONIC PAIN OUTSIDE MY GENITAL AREA 

• Talk to your doctor about your pain 

• If needed, get a referral to a specialist 

• Create a plan to decrease your pain 

• If possible, avoid opiate pain medications 

I HAVE GENITAL PAIN TRIGGERED BY SEX 

• See a urologist to find out if there is something physical that can be corrected 

• If a urologist cannot help, find a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor therapy. 

I AM ALWAYS TIRED 

• Talk to your doctor about your fatigue 

• Start gradually on a regular exercise program 

• Make sure you go to bed around the same time every night 

• Avoid napping during the day 

• Keep your bedroom for sleep rather than reading or watching TV in bed. 

• Learn some relaxation techniques 

• If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, speak with your health care provider about having a sleep study completed.  

• You may need a referral to a specialist who can do tests and prescribe medication 

 Hormones and Medications 

MY TESTOSTERONE LEVELS MAY BE LOW 

• Talk to your doctor about your concern 

• Have a blood test for testosterone 

• Do not take testosterone unless done under the guidance of a medical doctor. 

• If you have had prostate cancer, consult an expert oncologist before taking testosterone 

• Even men on hormone therapy for prostate cancer can sometimes feel desire, get erections, and reach orgasm with more effort and both mental and physical stimulation. 

A MEDICINE I AM TAKING MAY BE INTERFERING WITH DESIRE 

• Ask your doctor about possible sexual side effects of your prescription medicines. 

• Use trusted medication information or ask your pharmacist whether sexual side effects are possible. 

• Do not stop a medication abruptly or on your own; ask your doctor whether a dose change or a different medicine is appropriate.