Erection Problems: Talking With Your Partner

Topic Overview

Talking with your partner may help your erection problems (erectile dysfunction). Couples often assume that they each know what the other person likes when it comes to sex. Sometimes they are wrong.

• Don't assume. Tell your partner what you do and don't find pleasurable.
• Make time outside of the bedroom to talk about your sex life together. If you withdraw sexually because you are afraid of having erection problems, your partner may worry that you are no longer interested or that you are involved in another sexual relationship.
• In some cases, you may find that your partner is less concerned about intercourse and is more concerned and interested in foreplay and other forms of sexual satisfaction.
• Discuss the strong and weak points of the whole relationship, not just the sexual relationship. Identify positive areas, areas of conflict, and areas that need improvement. Come to agreement on how or if you will both make changes.
• If you have trouble talking about sex with your partner, see a person who can help you communicate with each other, such as a certified therapist.
• Read books with your partner on sexual health.