Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

My husband is on anti-hypertensive medication and his doctor insists that it will have no effect on his sex drive. But I have noticed major differences. What can I do?

Answer

Either confront his doctor directly with your observations, requesting that he consider one of the newer medications for hypertension that do not have negative sexual side effects, or consult a doctor who is more comfortable dealing with the sexuality of men with hypertension. Many physicians are as uncomfortable dealing with sex as many other members of the population.

03/18/98

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.