It is a well-known truism that the largest sexual organ humans possess is between their ears. The brain controls many aspects of sexual stimulation for men and women. However, the act of intercourse is physical, and there are a number of physical conditions and tactile activities that can decrease or eliminate sexual desire, at least temporarily.
The Squeeze Technique
Premature ejaculation occurs when a male orgasm takes place sooner than both partners would like, according to the Mayo Clinic. A common treatment for premature ejaculation is the squeeze technique, which can be ejaculation by the male himself or by his partner. During the act of intercourse, the man or his partner squeezes the penis where the head, or glans meets the shaft for several seconds just when he feels he is about to achieve orgasm. Wait 30 seconds, then resume sexual activity. Repeat the squeeze technique as necessary until both partners are ready for the male to ejaculate.
Childbirth and Breastfeeding
Childbirth can increase vaginal discomfort and decrease sexual desire, according to D. Ashley Hill, M.D. of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency in Orlando, quoted on ObGyn.net. Breastfeeding decreases estrogen levels in nursing women, which can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse, according to Susan Kellogg-Spadt, CRNP, Ph.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, quoted on Healthy Women. Breastfeeding also increases levels of prolactin, a hormone that decreases sexual desire, while also reducing the levels of testosterone.
Overstrenuous Exercise
Men who trained rigorously for endurance sports often showed decreased levels of testosterone, the major hormone that governs the male sex drive, according to a study conducted by Anthony C Hackney, an exercise physiologist and nutritionist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, reported in the Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine and Science. Pressure on the penis from long periods of bicycle riding can cause nerve compression, reduced blood flow to the penis and temporary erectile dysfunction, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Cold Showers
Cold showers and cold baths were a regular part of hygiene for gentlemen during the Edwardian era, according to the Independent newspaper. In more modern times, cold showers were viewed as a means of controlling sexual desire. In fact, exposure to cold water can cause significant shrinkage in the size of the male penis.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Premature Ejaculation -- Treatments and Drugs
- Healthy Women, Susan Kellogg-Spadt, CRNP, PhD: Ask the Expert
- ObGyn.net, D. Ashley Hill, MD: Diminished Libido (Sexual Desire)
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: Erectile Dysfunction
- Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine and Science, Andrew C. Hackney: Testosterone and Reproductive Dysfunction in Endurance-Trained Men
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