More than " Just sex"
Sexual health is a holistic concept, encompassing the physical, emotional, hormonal, and psychological capacity to experience sexuality in a fulfilling, safe, and self-determined way. For men, sexual health is not only an intimate matter but also a reflection of their overall health . Libido, erection, orgasmic ability, and sexual self-confidence are directly linked to metabolism, hormones, vascular function, sleep quality, stress management, and emotional stability.
When sexuality suffers, it is often an early indicator of other health imbalances, such as testosterone deficiency, chronic stress, cardiovascular risks, or psychological overload.
What does sexual health actually mean?
According to the WHO, sexual health is "a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality, and not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction." For men, this means:
- To experience a natural sexual desire (libido)
- To experience sexual activity without pain, fear of failure, or performance pressure.
- Getting and maintaining stable erections
- To be able to experience a fulfilling orgasm
- To feel sexually attractive and confident
- To be able to talk openly and without fear about sexuality
Sexual health is not something to be taken for granted; it must be nurtured, protected, and, if necessary, therapeutically supported.
What does male sexual health depend on?
Sexual health arises from the interplay of many factors, both physical and psychological. Men who are under a lot of pressure at work, suffer from chronic sleep deprivation, or are unaware of their hormone levels often notice a gradual loss of libido, spontaneity, or self-confidence.
Important influencing factors include:
- Hormone levels , especially testosterone, DHEA, SHBG, estradiol
- Vascular health , blood pressure, arterial elasticity (e.g. in cases of erectile dysfunction)
- Mental state , stress, depression, anxiety, relationship situation
- Metabolic balance , insulin resistance, overweight, liver function
- Sleep quality , especially REM phases and testosterone release
- Nutrition and micronutrients (zinc, vitamin D, omega-3, magnesium)
- Medications , e.g., antidepressants, beta-blockers, statins
A disrupted hormonal balance, e.g. due to low free testosterone or increased SHBG, can severely impair sexual health long before classic symptoms of a hormone deficiency appear.
Signs that your sexual health is out of balance
Many men ignore early warning signs or attribute them to stress, age, or relationship conflicts. However, even small changes can indicate hormonal or health imbalances.
- Reduced desire (low libido)
- Reduced or absent morning erections
- Erectile problems despite sexual stimulation
- Orgasmic dysfunction or delayed ejaculation
- Feeling of "emotional distance" during sex
- Sexual frustration or withdrawal from intimacy
- Fear of failure, shame, or insecurity
How can sexual health be improved?
1. Check and understand hormone levels
A thorough blood test, such as the premium hormone analysis from Adon Health , provides you with a detailed picture of your current hormone profile. Values like free testosterone, SHBG, estradiol, and DHEA indicate whether your system is functioning optimally or is out of balance.
2. Optimize your lifestyle in a targeted way
- Strength training increases testosterone, libido, and self-esteem.
- Sufficient sleep (7–9 hours), especially deep REM sleep
- Healthy diet , rich in fiber and zinc
- Exercise (e.g., endurance combined with mobility) for vascular health
- Stress reduction through meditation, nature, and digital detoxification
- Less alcohol, no nicotine products
3. Addressing psychological and emotional factors
- Honest communication with the partner
- Professional sex counseling or coaching available if needed.
- Addressing old relationship patterns, self-esteem issues, or performance pressure
Conclusion
Sexual health is a fundamental component of male identity, vitality, and enjoyment of life. It depends not only on "function" but on the entire interplay of your physical, hormonal, and mental systems.
The better you know your body, including your hormone levels, the more effectively you can shape sexuality as a natural, self-determined part of your life . And if you notice that something is out of balance: Get help. Sooner, not later.
