“Normal” sexual function requires vascular, neurological, hormonal, and psychological systems to function together. As such, issues with any of these symptoms may produce issues with sexual function.[1]
Sexual dysfunction can be caused by:
- Neurological issues (e.g., damage to the brain, the spinal cord, or the nerves of the penis)
- Vascular issues (e.g., reduced penile blood flow due to cardiovascular disease)
- Endocrine issues (e.g., low testosterone, high prolactin, high/low thyroid hormones)
- Psychosocial issues (e.g., depression, stress, or relationship issues)[2]
- Sleep disturbances
- Medications (e.g., SSRIs, opioids, certain blood pressure medications)
- Recreational drugs
