It took Ranveer Singh and Johnny Sins starring together in a commercial to start a conversation about men’s sexual health in a country that would much rather keep it under wraps. Portrayed in a typical Indian saas-bahu soap opera format, the ad depicts Sins, ironically an adult entertainment star, as unable to fulfill his wife’s needs, with her confessing this in a comically exaggerated dialogue, deeming his ‘pappu can’t dance saala’.
However, this is not an uncommon problem. If we were to go by Indian studies, then research published in 2018 in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care found that at least one sexual health disorder was reported by 81% of men. “The most commonly reported disorder was a self-perceived defect in semen (64.4%), followed by loss of libido (21%), masturbation guilt (20.8%), erectile dysfunction (5%), and premature ejaculation (4.6%),” the findings read.
While specific issues men face with their sexual health can vary widely, Dr Duru Shah, director of Gynaecworld, tells indianexpress.com that optimal sexual health isn’t merely the absence of disease but refers to a state of well-being that enables a man to fully and enjoyably participate in sexual activity.
“Indicators of good sexual health in men include consistent erectile function, a healthy libido, absence of pain or discomfort during intercourse, and satisfactory sexual desire,” she adds.
But unlike the ad, which suggests that men only need to pop a pill to ‘last longer‘ or awaken their dormant sex life, experts urge that men can enhance their sexual health naturally too.
Here are tips for men to improve their sexual health without resorting to supplements, according to Dr Gaurav Garg, senior consultant in urology at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep contribute to overall well-being, including sexual health.
- Manage stress: High-stress levels can impact sexual function. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation or yoga into your routine.
- Limit alcohol and quit smoking: Excessive alcohol intake and smoking can negatively affect sexual health. Moderation or quitting may lead to improvement.
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for various bodily functions, including sexual health.
- Communicate with your partner: Open communication about desires, concerns, and preferences can enhance sexual satisfaction for both partners.
- Practice safe sex: Use protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promote overall sexual health.
- Know your body: Understanding your sexual response and preferences can contribute to a more satisfying sexual experience.
If you’re still facing persistent issues, consult a healthcare professional, as they can provide guidance, identify underlying causes, and suggest appropriate treatments. “Regular screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and addressing any underlying medical conditions that may affect sexual function are crucial aspects of comprehensive sexual health care,” Dr Shah concluded.