Imagine, if you will, a time. A time so very long ago. One of encyclopedias (look it up), of phones attached to cords (look it up), of letter writing (yeah, go ahead and look that one up, too). A time – without the internet. In the context of romance, it was a whole different can of beans. Once you broke up with someone, there were few mechanisms by which to keep track. A family member might spot your ex at the local watering hole, or – if you maintained ties with common friends – you might get wind of your former paramour’s whereabouts (and WHOM-abouts, if you know what I mean).  

Today, there is no shortage of ways to seek and find a person with whom you’ve been involved. But SHOULD you? Is stalking an ex helpful in any way?  

It’s true that we have a wide variety of avenues through which to achieve this. However, most experts agree with the old adage “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should”. First and foremost, if you are mourning the loss of this person and what they meant to you, what good can come from seeing them live their lives without you? While you may not wish them any ill will, it won’t boost your mental health to witness them moving on without you. Scrolling social media for any purpose induces a chemical our bodies produce called dopamine. Conventional wisdom is that dopamine gives us little boosts of satisfaction; hence, when we get one pic of our ex out at the club, we want more. But actually, dopamine is what incites us to keep going and going because one post isn’t enough and then we tell ourselves there must be more and the more there is the more dopamine is generated and then we need to spend more time scrolling and by this time you’ve forgotten to feed the dog and it’s 4 in the morning and… 

In fact, according to experts, the pain of a breakup can be physically painful (and those of you who’ve experienced a breakup didn’t need any expert to tell you that, am I right?).  

A Columbia University study found that “when participants looked at photos of a recent ex, the same centers in their brain lit up as when they were poked in the arm by a red-hot probe. The same thing did not happen when the same participants were asked to look at photos of their friends”. 

Experiencing the grief of a split is difficult enough, in other words. Why pour more salt in the wound? It doesn’t mean that at some point – if both parties are amenable – there can’t be some contact. But needless ex-scrolling won’t make your former person stop dating others, it won’t wipe the smiles off their faces in their travel photos, and it won’t bring them back to you.  

If you’re going through a breakup, surround yourself with support and comfort, and make sure to treat yourself like a friend who’s going through the same thing. If you feel as though you’re unable to move forward on your own, seek out a licensed therapist who can help you process your feelings and progress, in your own time, toward healing. To learn more about sexual health diagnosis and treatment, contact us today for a free phone consult.

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High Cholesterol Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Many people see erectile dysfunction as an unfortunate side effect of getting old, but this condition can also affect young men struggling with high cholesterol. Cholesterol, like other fats, does not dissolve in the blood. Because of this, too much cholesterol clogs your arteries and restricts blood flow throughout the body, including to your penis. Without a steady stream of blood, you can’t reliably achieve an erection. That’s why cholesterol levels are one of the first things doctors check in patients presenting with erectile dysfunction.

Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Can Impact Libido

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that a few pills will solve your problems. Studies have shown that many statins prescribed to lower cholesterol levels actually lower libidos as well.

However, not all drugs carry this side effect. Some men respond well to cholesterol-lowering drugs, and find that they actually improve their sex lives by giving them stronger erections. Note though, this is because the medication has helped the body work as it should. For this reason, if at all possible, it’s smart to lower your cholesterol level naturally with the right diet and exercise, rather than letting your health deteriorate so medications are the only options.

The improvement in erections from cholesterol-lowering drugs is relatively minor when compared to other forms of treatment for erectile dysfunction. For example, cholesterol-lowering drugs were shown to improve erections by between a third or half as much as impotency drugs including Viagra. So if you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, seeking treatment in this way will get the best results.

Cholesterol Helps the Formation of Sex Hormones

Cholesterol isn’t all bad though. In fact, a healthy level of cholesterol is vital for creating testosterone. So without cholesterol, you couldn’t produce mature sperm and your libido would take a hit. When you think about it, healthy cholesterol is actually fueling your sex drive! Testosterone is also responsible for a host of other important bodily functions that wouldn’t occur efficiently without cholesterol.

So next time you head for the drive-through, rethink your decision. While some cholesterol is important for normal sexual function, cholesterol-elevating treats could seriously impact your sexual health. Want more information? Contact us to schedule your free phone consult.

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Before we jump into the interpersonal, let’s get a sense of what trauma is. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) says that,

“-trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or threatening and that has lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.”

It’s generally accepted that those who experience a trauma do so uniquely. In other words, two people could live through the exact same scenario and then describe it very differently. Person A might have frightening flashbacks for months, while Person B sees it as just a scary event that they are able to put behind them.  

Additionally, two people might find themselves in an objectively terrifying situation (ie a serious car accident) and still report it in divergent ways. Research shows that many people who receive appropriate emotional support at the time they experienced the trauma, report fewer-to-no PTSD symptoms than others who receive little-to-no support. SAMHSA says,

“If there is a strong support system in place, little or no prior traumatic experiences, and if the individual has many resilient qualities, it may not affect his or her mental health.”

Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder can sometimes be tied directly to triggers. Other times, one can be flooded with fear, anxiety, anger, or sadness out of seemingly nowhere. This can make romantic relationships extra challenging when it comes to communication, sharing needs and preferences, and even sexual engagement.  

If the trauma was of a sexual nature, an individual might fear specific positions, acts, behavior, environment or simply any sexual engagement whatsoever. Others might become sexually active to a point that the amount or type of sex they’re having causes dysfunction, clouding their judgment or leaving them feeling empty and unsatisfied. It could even threaten their safety, health, and livelihood.  

If you’ve experienced trauma and feel that it’s getting in the way of your relationship, it’s a good idea to seek out a trauma-informed therapist who can help you process your emotions, help identify triggers, and collaborate with you on an effective treatment plan. It can also be helpful to talk with your partner If you feel safe about what you’re experiencing so that they can support you and make accommodations if necessary.  

Need to learn more? Give us a call. We offer free 10-minute phone consults and can help you determine next steps toward feeling happier and healthier.

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Oysters – A Zinc-Rich Delicacy

Oysters have long been identified as an aphrodisiac, but there’s some real science behind how they boost your sexual health. Oysters are rich in zinc which plays an important role in regulating testosterone levels. Crab and lobster contain zinc as well, though they lack the super-doses that oysters can offer.

Peaches – For Peak Fertility

If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your fertility, peaches offer a juicy answer. Their high vitamin C content helps improve sperm motility. The effect of vitamin C on sperm health is so drastic that men who were considered infertile after smoking most of their lives became fertile again after increasing their vitamin C intake. Vitamin C also lowers cortisol, a stress hormone. Increasing your vitamin C for just two months can have dramatic results. Other foods high in this vitamin include watermelon, tomatoes, and green and red peppers.

Chocolate – A Mood Boost with Health Benefits

Chocolate contains phenylethylamine that boosts serotonin and endorphins in the brain, which are chemicals associated with happiness. Chocolate also boosts your cardiovascular health and improves circulation. This in turn can increase blood flow to the penis making it easier to get an erection. So go ahead and indulge in dessert, just don’t overdo it.

Walnuts – A Sexual Superfood

Walnuts play a major role in men’s sexual health. Packed with vitamins B1, B2, A, E, and F, they offer a range of benefits. Walnuts improve motility, morphology, and vitality of sperm. They’re also beneficial for the lining of blood vessels, supporting a strong erection.

Leafy Greens – A Big Magnesium Boost

The magnesium in leafy greens dilates blood vessels which will increase blood flow to the penis for a stronger erection. They’re also packed with other healthy nutrients. Load up on cabbage, spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and other greens.

If you’re ready to change your lifestyle for the better and improve your sexual health, start adding these powerful foods to your weekly menus. A healthy diet and other lifestyle changes can help, whether you’re battling erectile dysfunction or just looking to add extra sparks in the bedroom. Experiencing sexual dysfunction or fertility issues? Contact us for a free phone consultation to find out how we may be able to help you.

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Penis: Man’s Best Friend

The penis is the part of the reproductive system men are most familiar with because it’s the organ used in sexual intercourse and masturbation. It actually has three parts: the root, the body, and the glans penis or head. The root attaches to the abdominal wall. The body’s three chambers fill with blood to cause an erection. If blood flow is compromised, erectile dysfunction occurs. The glans penis has a high concentration of nerve endings which makes sex pleasurable.   

Scrotum: Holds Testes and Regulates Temperature

The scrotum is a sack of skin and muscles that houses the testes. The scrotum helps keep the testes away from the body, so they’re cool for optimal sperm development.

Testes: Sperm & Testosterone Producers

The testes are two glands which produce sperm and testosterone. If the testes don’t work effectively, you may have a low sperm count and low testosterone levels. While the terms testicles and testes are often used interchangeably, the testicles are actually the testes and their surrounding structures.

Epididymis: Transports and Stores Sperm Cells

After the testes make sperm, the sperm travels to the epididymis to grow. During sexual arousal, contractions send the mature sperm on their way. An epididymal obstruction can sometimes form, causing infertility, but this can be diagnosed and effectively treated.

Vas Deferens & Seminal Vesicles: Aid Ejaculation

Together the vas deferens and seminal vesicles form the ejaculatory duct. Sperm from the epididymis reaches the vas deferens, then travels to the seminal vesicles where it joins with fluids to become semen. During ejaculation, muscles surrounding the seminal vesicles expel the semen. Up to 30% of men can experience premature ejaculation, while many men, particularly as they age, may experience delayed ejaculation.

Prostate Gland: Makes Prostatic Fluid

The prostate produces prostatic fluid. This white fluid nourishes, protects, and supports sperm, and is the major component in semen.

Urethra: Empties Bodily Fluid

The urethra is the final stop before sperm leaves the body during an orgasm. This tube works double-duty, also carrying urine from the bladder. During an erection, urine flow is blocked to ensure only semen leaves the body during an orgasm. 

The next time you think about sex, remember all the complex parts of your body that are involved in the process. Such an amazing system should never be taken for granted. If you’re experiencing any type of sexual dysfunction or male infertility, contact us to learn more about the various treatment options. We’re here to help.

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Choosing if, how, and when to talk with kids openly about sex is no exception. It’s a personal decision that’s unique to each parent. Mothers and fathers often consider several factors such as their own upbringing and culture, belief system, societal messages, and as mentioned above, research. You might also think you don’t have to shoulder this alone, particularly if your school district offers sex ed.  

If you’re wondering how to best approach all of this, here are some things to bear in mind: 

• Not all schools provide sex ed to students. In fact, only 38 states and the District of Columbia mandate sex education and/or HIV education. 

• Even if you live in one of those states, not all sex education programs are created equal.

• 25 states and DC mandate both sex education and HIV education.

• 3 states only mandate sex education.

• 10 states only mandate HIV education.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “When children and adolescents lack access to comprehensive sex education, they do not get the information they need to make informed, healthy decisions about their lives, relationships, and behaviors.”

If kids don’t get solid information about the facts or clear communication from their parents about their own family’s values, children are at greater risk for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), unplanned pregnancy, misinformation, or inadequate details regarding dating violence, sexual abuse, and unhealthy relationships.  

While all of this can be daunting, there are many resources parents can turn to for advice! You can check out our Sex Education page here. And, as always, you can ask and should your pediatrician or primary care provider for guidance.

If you need more advice or have any other sexuality-related questions, reach out to our experts at Maze Men’s Health! We can help you choose your next steps toward healthy sex and relationships.  

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Andropause is similar to its female counterpart, menopause, in that it refers to declining levels of hormones, specifically testosterone in men. Often referred to as Low T, this condition occurs most often in men as they age and can be gradual, making it difficult for both patients and physicians to recognize. Fortunately, diagnostic tools for measuring testosterone levels are improving, making it easier to identify and understand this condition. Assess your Low T symptoms to determine the best treatment options.

When to Look for Andropause

Andropause typically occurs mid-life, around the age of 40. However, andropause can occur very slowly over several years. Testosterone levels may begin declining as early as age 30. It is normal for testosterone to decline between 0.4 and 1.6 percent per year between the ages of 30 and 40.

Signs of Andropause/Low T

If you’re within this age range and begin experiencing common symptoms of low testosterone, there’s a good chance you are experiencing andropause. Symptoms to look for include:

· Low sex drive

· Erectile Dysfunction

· Fatigue/No Energy

· Inability to Focus

· Fat accumulation

· Loss of strength and muscle mass

· Depression or mood changes

· Sleep Issues, such as Apnea

· Decreased agility

· Hair loss

· Skin changes

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider, as it can be difficult to officially diagnose andropause on your own. If you’re experiencing signs of low testosterone, your doctor will test your testosterone levels to confirm or disprove an andropause diagnosis.

Measuring Testosterone Levels

There are three ways to measure testosterone levels:

· Analog-free testosterone

· Free testosterone

· Bioavailable testosterone

While analog-free testosterone tests are the most common, they are not the most accurate choice. Free or bioavailable testosterone levels provide more reliable data. Total testosterone of less than 200 ng/dL is always considered low, while levels greater than 600 ng/dL are well within the healthy range. If your levels fall between these two numbers, your doctor will analyze your age, symptoms, and other factors to determine whether your condition can be classified as andropause.

Testosterone levels are measured using a simple blood test. For the most accurate results, this test should be done before ten in the morning, while levels are still at their peak. Your doctor will measure your testosterone levels over several days, as levels can vary dramatically from one day to the next.

If you suffer from low testosterone symptoms and are interested in starting treatment, contact us. Testosterone replacement therapy can restore sexual function, muscle strength, and other symptoms of andropause. If you think you may be suffering from andropause, it’s important to speak with a specialist so you can get relief from these symptoms.

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One option for men is to “freeze” (cryopreserve) their sperm before starting testosterone replacement therapy.  If testosterone replacement products (Testim, Androgel, etc) shut down sperm production, the frozen samples can be used for fertility treatment (intrauterine insemination or in-vitro fertilization). 

The other option is to use Clomid.  Clomid is not FDA-approved in men.   Although we have years of data and clinical trials that show its effectiveness in increasing testosterone levels, it has never garnered FDA approval for men.   Men use Clomid to increase their testosterone levels.  Clomid works by stimulating more testosterone release from the testes and men continue to produce sperm.

Clomid is used off-label and may not be covered by some insurance plans.  It comes in a generic formulation that is very affordable.  Clomid is usually dosed at 50mg every other day.  Dosing can be adjusted to reach goal testosterone levels.

Clomid is well tolerated with the most frequent side effects being headaches and visual disturbances.  Both are reversible once the medication is stopped. 

In some men, estrogen levels will increase.  If estrogen levels get too high, we use anastrozole to block the conversion from testosterone to estrogen.

Clomid can be an effective treatment option for men who have low testosterone and want to maintain fertility options. If you want to start Clomid and are ready to bank your sperm, contact us today.

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Porn is one of those things that can be quite variable depending on the individuals involved, communication between those individuals, past behavior, and current relationship conditions – even the type of porn can be a factor. So partners can find themselves in a variety of scenarios. Here are just a few to consider:

Scenario 1: The relationship is 6 years old. Partner X has never watched porn before, but suddenly sneaks off to their laptop every night to log on to Pornhub, which makes Partner Y feel insecure.

Scenario 2: Both partners approve of some porn, but not on specifics. Misogynistic movies online? They might agree those are off-limits, but what about “ethical” or “feminist” porn websites? What about apps that feature audio porn?

Scenario 3: Partners agree to watch porn to turn up the heat, and Partner X is psyched while Partner Y- who was taught that ALL porn is wrong- is dreading the big event.

Scenario 4: During a rough patch in a 3-year-old marriage, Partner X becomes concerned when they find Partner Y’s erotica collection in their night table drawer.

Scenario 5: Partner X and Partner Y both grew up in cultures that believed all porn is wrong and sinful. However, they disagree and would like to explore. Regrettably, they never get around to it because they don’t know how to talk about their sexual preferences with one another.

Scenario 6: Partner X becomes upset when learning that Partner Y is watching someone on OnlyFans and interacting with them, despite having expressed the opinion that other types of porn are okay.

So what conclusions can you draw? Perhaps the only surefire takeaway is that porn, like anything else that has to do with sexuality, is intensely personal. As with any other sexual health issues, the best way forward is for partners to communicate their needs and desires with one another. This way, they can create a set of collective values that aren’t set in stone but instead can serve as a springboard for conversation as the relationship evolves.

Are you interested in exploring porn and how it might impact your sex life? Interested in exploring Sex Therapy? Arrange your free 10-minute phone consult, with Maze Men’s Health, today. Our experts can support you as you outline and work toward your sexual health goals.

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Most men rely on an erection to be the primary focus of all sexual expression and pleasure. And, while we definitely want erections on the menu, it’s always important to remember that erections are not necessary for either ejaculation or an orgasm; erections are not mandatory to enjoy sexual pleasure. Many men are surprised to discover this. I find that if a man gradually develops erectile dysfunction, he will often figure this out on his own through masturbation. However, men who have experienced sudden onset erectile dysfunction, such as from prostate cancer surgery or some kind of trauma, tend to be almost immobilized sexually because they cannot get an erection. I have had many patients express astonishment that they are able to experience an orgasm and ejaculation with a flaccid penis.

Does it feel different? Yes, slightly. The muscular contractions are different; they are somewhat diminished. Some men feel the orgasm may be slightly less intense, but other men say they experience the orgasm more fully in their entire groin area with a flaccid penis. But no matter what, all men concur that an orgasm/ejaculation with a flaccid penis is better than no orgasm/ejaculation at all!

Obviously, penetrative intercourse is not possible, but with sex education and a sense of exploration, one can find fulfilling sexual activity. Masturbation techniques will definitely change. With a flaccid penis it is impossible to stroke the penis, so many men develop different ways of stimulating the penis. Lubricant is mandatory. We also recommend men use body massager vibrators which are much stronger than the usual sex toy vibrator. I instruct men to simply wrap the penis around the vibrating head and hold it there and especially apply pressure at the frenulum. It may take a bit of practice, but there is no reason to discontinue having fun. It is very common for men who are unable to get an erection to avoid letting their partner play with their flaccid penis. There is often an underlying sense of shame about the lack of an erection. I frequently hear from partners how much they enjoy performing oral sex on a flaccid penis because it is softer, they don’t gag, it’s fun, and it’s just different.

Yes, erections remain mysterious. But let’s remember that erections are not mandatory. Our goal is to get every man who wants an erection the ability to have an erection – and trust me, we can do that. But just because we do not have an erect penis should not prevent us from engaging in sexual fun. For more information about Erectile Dysfunction and ways to enhance your sex life, contact us for a free phone consultation. We’re happy to help.

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