The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine
Changes in sexual health can be difficult to discuss, especially when they’re linked to a medication you need for your physical or mental health. Reduced sexual desire, difficulty with arousal, erectile dysfunction, or changes in orgasm are common and can affect overall well-being and quality of life.
Healthcare providers regularly discuss these issues and can help identify possible causes and treatment options. Open communication with your provider can help you find safe, effective, and personalized care.
The Impact of Unaddressed Sexual Side Effects
Many patients want their healthcare providers to discuss sexual health, yet nearly 50% report never having these conversations during medical visits.
Mental health conditions and some medications can affect sexual functioning. Nearly 30% of patients with anxiety or depressive disorders reported sexual dysfunction, with rates increasing after the start of antidepressant treatment.
Sexual dysfunction can include reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, difficulty with arousal, vaginal dryness, or problems reaching orgasm. These symptoms can affect quality of life, relationships, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Despite the importance of sexual health, these concerns are often underreported and undertreated, particularly in patients with mental health conditions.
Common Medications That Can Affect Sexual Health
Hormonal contraceptives may influence sexual health in some individuals, although responses vary depending on the formulation and the person using it. For instance, antidepressants are commonly linked to sexual side effects, including lower sexual desire, delayed orgasm, or difficulty with arousal.
Antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety medications can affect sexual function, depending on the medication and dose. Other medications, including blood pressure drugs, heart medications, chemotherapy treatments, hormone therapies, and some neurological or urological medications, can also contribute to sexual health changes.
How to Start the Conversation with Your Doctor
Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is crucial for achieving positive health outcomes and could influence over 70% of cases. Broaching the topic of sexual health can feel awkward, but your doctor is a trained professional who handles these concerns regularly. Being prepared can make the conversation easier and more productive. Try to bring it up early in the appointment to ensure there’s enough time for a thorough discussion.
A simple, direct statement is often the most effective way to start. Consider one of these phrases:
- "I’ve noticed some changes in my sexual function since starting this medication, and I’d like to talk about it."
- "I'm wondering if any of my current medications could be affecting my sex drive?"
- "I read that a side effect of my medication can be [symptom]. I think I might be experiencing that, and I was hoping we could discuss it."
Once the conversation has started, getting the right information is key. Before your appointment, write down your specific symptoms. Consider asking if they are a common side effect of your medication and if there are any alternative medications for your condition that have fewer sexual side effects.
You can also ask if adjusting the dosage or the time of day you take the medication could make a difference. Asking about treatment or lifestyle changes that your doctor recommends for managing side effects can also help, as can asking if the side effect will go away on its own over time.
Take Charge of Your Treatment
Sexual side effects are common, but many treatment options are available. Talking openly with your healthcare provider can help identify whether a medication or medical condition may be affecting your sexual health.
Your sexual health is an important part of your overall well-being and quality of life. Asking questions and seeking clarification can help you make informed healthcare decisions and receive care that supports your complete health.
Resources:
Capsa Healthcare. 6 Ways to Improve Patient Communication. Capsa Healthcare. https://www.capsahealthcare.com/blog/computer-workstations/6-ways-to-improve-patient-communication/
Catlett, T. (2025, July 23). How to Talk to a Doctor About Your Sexual Health. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-talk-to-doctor-about-sexual-health
Damam, S.P. et al. (2024, August 18). Relationship Between Sexual Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Psychiatric Patients Receiving Regular Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11406823/
Manninen, S. et al. (June 2022). Patients with chronic diseases: Is sexual health brought up by general practitioners during appointments? A web-based study. Maturitas. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378512222000275
Montejo, A. et al. (2018, January 19). The impact of severe mental disorders and psychotropic medications on sexual health and its implications for clinical management. World Psychiatry. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/wps.20509
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