A sexual problem or sexual dysfunction refers to a problem that prevents an individual or a couple from experiencing complete satisfaction from any sexual activity like intercourse, oral sex or masturbation. Sexual dysfunction can result from both physical and psychological problems. A good lifestyle and timely medical intervention can help treat sexual dysfunctions.

Studies suggest that sexual dysfunction is fairly common. Almost every 4 in 10 women and every three in 10 men report some degree of difficulty. However, many people are hesitant to discuss these problems. Fortunately, most cases of sexual dysfunctions are treatable, so it is important to share your concerns with your partner and doctor.

Premature ejaculation is the inability to delay ejaculation till the man wishes or when ejaculation occurs too early in the sexual act to satisfy both partners. The time to reach the stage of ejaculation is subjective and varies form one man to another. Some men may ejaculate immediately after copulation begins while another may not ejaculate even after 10 minutes. Thus, time is not a criterion for ascertaining whether the ejaculation is premature or not; mutual satisfaction is the benchmark against which this condition is measured.

Also referred to as inhibited or restarted ejaculation, delayed ejaculation occurs when the man unable to ejaculate, either during intercourse, or with manual stimulation in the presence of a partner. Most men ejaculate within 2 to 4 minutes after onset of active thrusting in intercourse. Men with retarded ejaculation may be entirely unable to ejaculate in some circumstances (for example, during intercourse), or may only be able to ejaculate with great effort and after prolonged intercourse (for example 30 to 45 minutes).

This occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced back into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis.

Premature ejaculation primarily has a physiological basis. Biologically, men have an orgasm approximately 2-3 minutes after penetrating the vagina. Women, on the other hand, typically take more time to reach the climax. Since in most cases, the partners may not climax together, they are not satisfied and the ejaculation is termed premature. Certain drugs, including some anti-depressants, may also affect ejaculation, as can nerve damage to the spinal cord or back.

The term erectile dysfunction covers a range of disorders, but usually refers to the inability to obtain an adequate erection for satisfactory sexual activity. An occasional episode of erectile dysfunction happens to most men and is normal. As men age, it's also normal to experience changes in erectile function. Erections may take longer to develop, may not be as rigid or may require more direct stimulation to be achieved. Men may also notice that orgasms are less intense, the volume of ejaculate is reduced and recovery time increases between erections.

The most common nonphysical causes of erectile dysfunction are stress, anxiety and fatigue. Impotence is also an occasional side effect of psychological problems such as depression. Nerve damage from longstanding diabetes (diabetic neuropathy) and cardiovuscular disorders can also result in erectile dysfunction.

Inhibited desire, or loss of libido, refers to a decrease in desire for, or interest in sexual activity. Variations in sex drive do occur in all males at different points of time. There are physical as well as psychological reasons for this. Long standing diseases can result in lack of sexual interest and stress, depression, loss of a family member, and other such traumatic events can also lower the sec drive.

Reduced libido (low sex drive) can result from physical or psychological factors. It has been associated with low levels of the testosterone hormone. It also may result from psychological issues, such as anxiety and depression; medical illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure; certain medications, including some anti-depressants; and relationship difficulties.

Improving lifestyle helps a lot in fighting sexual problems. Limit or avoid the use of alcohol and other similar drugs

Both smoking and erectile dysfunction have often been associated - individually - with plaque build-up in the arteries, called atherosclerosis. The plaque obstructs blood flow through vessels, causing a host of circulatory problems throughout the body, such as erectile dysfunction. So, if you want to perform well in the bed, stop smoking.

Stress related to a job, marriage, or finances is a common cause of erection problems. Ongoing stress may result in erectile dysfunction. So, de-stress yourself by meditating or doing yoga.

Insufficient sleep and sleep disturbances make you feel low and lethargic. So, take proper rest and sleep for at least 7-8 hours a day to feel energetic and to reduce the episodes of erectile dysfunction.

Performance anxiety is where a person has an anticipation of some sort of problem occurring in the sexual act. As a consequence of which they develop a sense of anxiety, which often translates into an inability to achieve a good erection or an inability to go ahead and have sex. So, cut out anxiety and depression by thinking positive about yourself and your sexual health.

Stay away from the junk food, fast food, soda, colas and processed sugar. Healthy fruits, veggies, grains etc. will make you feel better and more energetic.

Sexual intercourse is not merely a physical act with your partner. It is important that both of you are ready for it and enjoy it for fulfillment. It is, therefore, necessary that the mood be right and both partners be adequately aroused sexually. Arousal can be heightened by foreplay, which is an important part of intercourse.

Safe sex requires prior planning and good communication between partners. Given that, couples can enjoy the pleasures of a sexual relationship while reducing the potential risks involved.

The more oxygen, fresh air, and movement you get by walking, biking, swimming, exercising etc, the healthier you'll feel overall. Physical and emotional intimacy is connected to how active you are during the day. Remember, exercising never depletes energy but increases it.

See the doctor for regular checkups and medical screening tests so that any health problem like high blood pressure or diabetes, which may result in erectile dysfunction can be treated timely.