Medications & Sex: What You Should Know

If sex, or even the thought of sex, is about as appealing to you lately as flossing your teeth, it's time to figure out what's going on-if it's bothering you.

Consider making an appointment with your health care provider and make sure there's nothing physically wrong with you. Also, talk to him or her about your relationship, your stress level, your own sexual history and your perceptions about sex. But there's one other thing you should take a look at: your medicine cabinet.

There are several commonly used medications that can impact sexual functioning. You may have heard about the effects of certain antidepressants on sexual function. These sexual-health related problems include reduced desire, less arousal and sensation and difficulty reaching orgasm.

If you are taking an antidepressant that you think may be causing sexual side effects, or are not sure if the drug you are taking causes these problems, talk to your health care provider. Most important, however: Do not try to alter your treatment therapy on your own. This can be dangerous both in terms of side effects and a return of the depression. Instead, work with your health care professional to identify the best options for your health and sexual well-being.