Sexual Health and Urology: Understanding Your Body and When to Seek Care

Sexual health is an important part of overall well-being. It affects physical health, emotional health, relationships, and quality of life. Yet many people feel uncomfortable talking about it or are unsure where to turn for help.

At Mayo Clinic, we understand that sexual health concerns are common—and treatable. Our Department of Urology provides expert, respectful, and personalized care for a wide range of conditions affecting sexual function in men and women.

This page is designed to help you better understand sexual health, recognize when something may be wrong, and know what to expect when seeking care.

What is sexual health?

Sexual health includes more than just sexual activity. It involves:

• The ability to experience desire, arousal, and satisfaction
• Comfort with your body and sexual function
• Healthy relationships and communication
• Physical and emotional well-being

Changes in sexual health can happen at any age and may be related to medical conditions, stress, medications, or life events.

Common sexual health concerns

Many people experience sexual health issues at some point. Some of the most common concerns include:

Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It can be caused by:

• Blood flow problems
• Nerve conditions
• Hormonal changes
• Stress or anxiety
• Pelvic floor muscle issues

ED is very common and often treatable.

Low libido (low sex drive)

A decrease in sexual desire can affect both men and women. Causes may include:

• Hormonal changes
• Stress or fatigue
• Relationship concerns
• Chronic illness
• Medications

Ejaculatory or orgasm concerns

Some individuals may experience:

• Delayed or absent ejaculation
• Premature ejaculation
• Reduced intensity of orgasm

These concerns may have physical or psychological causes, and effective treatments are available.

Penile curvature or structural changes

Conditions such as Peyronie’s disease can cause:

• Curvature of the penis
• Pain with erections
• Changes in shape or firmness

Early evaluation can help guide treatment and prevent progression.

Pelvic floor dysfunction

The pelvic floor muscles play an important role in sexual function. When these muscles are too tight or not working in coordination, they can lead to:

• Erectile difficulties
• Pain or discomfort
• Changes in ejaculation
• Sensation of pressure or “tightness”

Pelvic floor physical therapy is often a key part of treatment.

Female sexual health concerns

Urologists also work closely with specialists to address:

• Pain with intercourse
• Vaginal dryness
• Difficulty with arousal or orgasm
• Pelvic floor disorders

Why sexual health changes happen

Sexual health is influenced by many systems in the body. Changes can be related to:

Physical factors

• Heart and blood vessel health
• Nerve function
• Hormone levels
• Pelvic floor muscle function

Emotional and psychological factors

• Stress
• Anxiety or depression
• Relationship concerns
• Performance worries

Lifestyle factors

• Sleep
• Exercise
• Alcohol, tobacco, or substance use

Often, sexual health concerns are caused by a combination of these factors—not just one.

When should you seek care?

It may be time to see a specialist if you notice:

• Ongoing difficulty with erections or arousal
• Changes in sexual function that persist for several months
• Pain during sexual activity
• Changes in penile shape or structure
• Concerns about ejaculation or orgasm
• Symptoms that are affecting your confidence or relationships

Seeking care early can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes.

What to expect at your visit

At Mayo Clinic, we approach sexual health with respect, privacy, and a focus on your individual goals.

Your visit may include:

• A detailed discussion of your symptoms and concerns
• Review of medical history and medications
• Physical examination (when appropriate)
• Lab testing or imaging if needed

In many cases, we already have enough information to begin treatment without extensive testing.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and your preferences. Options may include:

Lifestyle and behavioral changes

• Improving sleep and exercise
• Reducing stress
• Adjusting medications when appropriate

Medications

• Oral medications for erectile dysfunction
• Hormone therapy when indicated
• Other targeted treatments based on symptoms

Pelvic floor physical therapy

This is an important and often underused treatment. It can help:

• Improve muscle coordination
• Reduce tension
• Enhance blood flow and function

Devices and procedural options

• Vacuum erection devices
• Penile injections
• Surgical options in select cases

Counseling and support

Sexual health often involves both physical and emotional factors. Support may include:

• Counseling
• Education
• Partner involvement when appropriate

A team-based approach to care

At Mayo Clinic, sexual health care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that may include:

• Urologists with expertise in sexual medicine
• Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) who help coordinate care and provide ongoing support
• Nurses and care coordinators who guide you through your treatment plan
• Pelvic floor physical therapists who specialize in muscle function and coordination
• Other specialists, depending on your needs

This team-based approach ensures that all aspects of your health are considered.

Taking the first step

It can be difficult to talk about sexual health, but you are not alone. These concerns are common, and effective treatments are available.

Taking the first step may feel uncomfortable, but many patients find that simply having a conversation brings relief and clarity.

Why choose Mayo Clinic?

• Expertise in complex and common sexual health conditions
• Access to a full range of diagnostic and treatment options
• A collaborative, patient-centered approach
• Focus on respectful, confidential care

Moving forward

If you have concerns about sexual health, we encourage you to seek care. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide treatment that aligns with your goals.

Your health, comfort, and quality of life matter—and sexual health is an important part of that.

Request an appointment
If you would like to be seen by a specialist in sexual health, you can request an appointment with the Mayo Clinic Department of Urology. Our team is here to help you take the next step.