SMSNA receives and publishes “guest editorials” periodically. The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher specializing in women’s health, wellness and healthy living. She is its Founder and Editor-in-Chief Body+Mind Magazine
Changes in sexual health can be difficult to discuss, especially when they are associated with a medication you need for your physical or mental health. Decreased sexual desire, difficulty in arousal, erectile dysfunction or changes in orgasm are common and can affect overall well-being and quality of life.
Health care 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 untreated 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 certain medications can affect sexual function. Almost 30% of patients with anxiety or depressive disorders reported sexual dysfunction, with rates increasing after initiation of antidepressant treatment.
Sexual dysfunction may include decreased sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, difficulty arousal, vaginal dryness, or problems achieving 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 can affect sexual health in some people, although responses vary depending on the formulation and the person using it. For example, antidepressants are commonly associated with sexual side effects, such as lower sexual desire, delayed orgasm, or difficulty in arousal.
Antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety medications can affect sexual function, depending on the drug and the dose. Other medications, such as blood pressure medications, heart medications, chemotherapy treatments, hormone treatments, and certain 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 to achieving positive health outcomes and could affect over 70% of cases. Discussing the topic of sexual health can be uncomfortable, but your doctor is a trained professional who handles these concerns regularly. Preparation can make the conversation easier and more productive. Try to bring this up early in the appointment to ensure there is enough time for a thorough discussion.
A simple, direct statement is often the most effective way to start. Think of one of these phrases:
- “I have noticed some changes in my sexual function since starting this medication and would like to talk about it.”
- “I wonder if any of my current medications could be affecting my sex drive?”
- “I read that it could be a side effect of my medication [symptom]. I think I might be experiencing that and I was hoping we could talk about it.”
Once the conversation starts, it’s important to get the right information. Before your appointment, note your specific symptoms. Consider asking if it’s a common side effect of your medication and if there are alternative medications for your condition that have fewer sexual side effects.
You can also ask if adjusting the dose or the time of day you take the medicine could make a difference. Asking about the treatment or lifestyle changes your doctor recommends to manage the 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 there are many treatment options. Speaking openly with you health care provider can help you determine if 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 health care 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, SP et al. (2024, August 18). Relationship between sexual dysfunction and quality of life in psychiatric patients receiving regular treatment: A cross-sectional study. Cureus.
Manninen, S. et al. (June 2022). Patients with chronic conditions: Are general practitioners informed about sexual health during appointments? An online study. Graduation.
Montejo, A. et al. (2018, January 19). The impact of serious mental disorders and psychotropic drugs on sexual health and its implications for clinical management. Global Psychiatry.
