How TCM and Western Treatments Can Improve Sexual Dysfunction

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Male sexual dysfunction refers to any disturbance of sexual function that prevents individuals or their partner from enjoying sexual activity and constitute conditions such as erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence (with the latter term less commonly used now), premature ejaculation, low libido, delayed orgasm/ejaculation. With the topic of sexual dysfunction remaining taboo, men find it hard to open up and seek professional help. In this article, we discuss male sexual dysfunction in-depth, treatments available as well as top tips to alleviate sexual dysfunction. We hope to change your perspective, sexual dysfunction is just like any other health condition out there. Principles of acupoint selection: *Study on Erectile dysfunction [1]; Study on Premature ejaculation [2] While sexual dysfunction commonly affects older men (age 45 and above), it is a condition that can affect adult men of all ages, especially in our generation. The 2 most common forms of sexual dysfunction affecting men are Erectile dysfunction (ED) and Premature ejaculation (PE). [3] Who is more likely to experience male sexual dysfunction? Factors How it affects your male sexual functions Age While older males (above 45) are more likely to be affected, sexual dysfunction can affect men of all ages, especially in our sedentary generation. Ageing, chronic health conditions and poor lifestyle habits are associated with poorer vascular and nerve health, which have a direct impact on men’s sexual functions. Low testosterone levels in men affect libido and erection. Chronic health conditions e.g. high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, low testosterone, nerve-related disease, obesity Poor lifestyle habits Smoking, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive weight gain Psychological issues e.g. stress, low confidence, sexual anxiety, depression, relationship problems As sexual activity (e.g. desire for sexual intimacy, erection, orgasm, ejaculation) is largely controlled by our nervous system, any form of psychological issues could affect the sexual response. Why is it important to seek help early? On the emotional side of things, proper sexual function is important in any relationship. Having a healthy sex life strengthens your bond and emotional intimacy with your partner. Leaving sexual dysfunction unattended could spiral into a vicious cycle where stress, sexual anxiety and relationship problems worsen your sexual dysfunction. In addition, sexual function problems can be an early warning of other chronic conditions. Recent research concluded, erectile dysfunction might be an indicator of poor cardiovascular health. [4] Can you fully recover from sexual dysfunction? With the right cause identified, doctors and TCM physicians can work out a treatment plan that includes lifestyle and dietary changes to improve your condition. In other words, with the right treatments, the chances of recovering or getting your sexual dysfunction managed are very high. The earlier you seek treatment, the easier it is to manage the condition. “We’re living in a time where information is readily available and help is everywhere. This makes it so much more important to seek treatment from trusted professionals that you are comfortable with.” ~ Dr. Chan Jun Yang What are the main types of sexual dysfunction in men? 1. Erectile dysfunction (ED) (阳痿) It is the repeated inability to achieve or maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual performance. What causes it: Psychological issues (e.g. relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, worrying about ED, fatigue) Ageing Poor lifestyle (e.g. excessive alcohol intake, lack of exercise, smoking, obesity) Chronic health problems (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, nerve disease) Hormonal disorders (e.g. low testosterone) Medications (e.g. antidepressants, certain blood pressure medications) Liver Qi stagnation syndrome Blood-stasis syndrome MingMen Fire weakening syndrome Heart-Spleen deficiency syndrome Yin deficiency raging Fire syndrome Phlegm-Damp syndrome 2. Premature ejaculation (PE) (早泄) It is early or rapid ejaculation that happens before the male and his partner would like. What causes it: Psychological issues (e.g. relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, fatigue) Low levels of brain neurotransmitters i.e. serotonin Testosterone deficiency Prostate problems (e.g. infection, inflammation) Concurrent ED (males with ED may form a habit of rushing to ejaculate as they are worried of the inability to maintain the erection) Liver Qi stagnation syndrome MingMen Fire weakening syndrome Heart-Spleen deficiency syndrome Yin deficiency raging Fire syndrome 3. Decreased/ Low libido (性欲减退) It is the lack of sexual desire or sex drive to put it simply. What causes it: Often linked to stress, relationship issues, low self-esteem, and fatigue Medical conditions (e.g. testosterone deficiency) Sexual dysfunctions such as ED and PE Liver Qi stagnation syndrome MingMen Fire weakening syndrome Heart-Spleen deficiency syndrome Phlegm-Damp syndrome 4. Delayed orgasm/ejaculation It is a persistent difficulty or delay in attaining orgasm after sufficient sexual stimulation, causing emotional distress. What causes it: Psychological issues (e.g. relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress) Reduced penile stimulation due to frequent or unusual masturbation techniques, hyperstimulation (e.g. porn), disparity between fantasy and partner Ageing Medications/substances (e.g. antidepressants, excessive alcohol use) Health conditions (e.g.diabetes, nerve disease, low testosterone) Prostate surgery 5. Sexual anxiety (性焦虑) Also known as sexual performance anxiety typically results from negative thoughts about your ability to perform well. What causes it: Fear of not being able to satisfy partner sexually Self-esteem issues like body weight, body image Problems in your relationship Concern about premature ejaculation or taking too long to reach orgasm Anxiety about not being able to have an orgasm or enjoy the sexual experience Medications (e.g. antidepressants, certain blood pressure medications) Liver Qi stagnation syndrome Phlegm-Damp syndrome Sexual dysfunction from a TCM perspective In TCM, imbalances and disharmony in the body lead to the development of health conditions and sexual dysfunction is one of them. The 6 most common syndromes causing sexual dysfunctions are: MingMen Fire weakening syndrome (命门火衰证) Liver Qi stagnation syndrome (肝郁气滞证) Phlegm-Damp syndrome (痰湿阻滞证) Yin deficiency raging Fire syndrome (阴虚火旺证) Heart-Spleen deficiency syndrome (心脾两虚证) Blood-stasis syndrome (血脉瘀滞证) 1.MingMen Fire weakening syndrome (命门火衰证) Mingmen is an area between the second and third lumbar vertebra. In TCM, our reproductive function and potency is directly linked to the MingMen.