Does Being Overweight Lead to Sexual Health Problems for Men?

There is a lot of evidence that suggests that obesity can negatively impact physical well being, but studies also seem to indicate that it could affect sexual health as well. Being overweight has been linked to sexual problems for both men and women. A recent study in France published by the British Medical Journal has has linked obesity with erectile dysfunction in men.

How does being Overweight affect Sexual Health in Men?

Obesity affects sexual health in men for a number of reasons. It can lower their confidence and make them feel less deserving of sexual intimacy. Being overweight can make men feel embarrassed by their bodies and this can interfere with their ability to enjoy sex. It is not only psychological effects that are the problem though because obesity is also linked to other health problems that can influence libido and sexual performance.

People who are obese are also at greater risk of developing diabetes and this has been shown to be a causative factor in erectile dysfunction. Even before diabetes has developed fully it may be that insulin resistance is causing problems with sexual performance. High cholesterol has also been shown to interfere with a man's ability to achieve an erection. Once a man starts to have problems with erectile dysfunction he will often lose interest in sex altogether.

How Men Can Avoid Sexual Health Problems due to Obesity

The way to avoid sexual health problems due to obesity is to exercise regularly and eat sensibly. Taking care of the body provides an overall sense of well-being and increases confidence; sex is more pleasurable when we feel good about ourselves. Keeping in shape should also help us avoid any medical problems that could be causing erectile dysfunction or other sexual problems.

Men often find it difficult to discuss issues surrounding sex and they can be resistant towards the idea of getting advice about things like erectile dysfunction. It is important to get things checked out as sexual problems, particularly erectile dysfunction, can be an indicator of other health problems. Recent research suggest that a sudden problem with getting an erection could indicate the possibility of heart disease.

One of the great joys in life is the ability to share sexual intimacy; it is also important for our emotional well-being. If we are overweight it can get in the way of this pleasure or eventually mean that we stop having sex altogether. In most instances there will be actions we can take to stop this occurring.

Sources British Medical Journal - Sexuality and obesity, a gender perspective: results from French national random probability survey of sexual behaviours (Accessed 19^th June 2010)

MedicineNet - Better Sex; what's weight got to do with it? (Accessed 19^th June 2010)

Time Magazine Online - Obesity's Impact on Sexual Health (Accessed 19^th June 2010)