Every 14 February we mark European Sexual Health Day, a date that invites us to reflect on an essential aspect of human wellbeing which, nevertheless, is still surrounded by silence and taboos.
As a urologist, and as a doctor who supports patients at particularly sensitive moments in their lives, I can confidently say that sexual health is not a secondary matter: it is a central dimension of physical, emotional and relational health.
Sexual health forms part of a person’s overall health. It is not limited to biological function; it directly influences self-esteem, emotional stability and the quality of intimate relationships. Furthermore, in some cases, sexual dysfunction may be the first sign of an underlying medical condition, which reinforces the importance of not dismissing these symptoms.
A reality affecting male sexual health
In urology clinics, problems related to male sexual health are more common than many people realise. However, there is still a tendency to delay seeking medical advice due to discomfort or the belief that certain changes are “normal with age”.
Erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual desire or ejaculatory disorders should not be considered inevitable. When these changes persist, they should be properly assessed.
Erectile dysfunction, in particular, is not always an isolated problem. It may be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal disorders or neurological conditions. In some cases, it may even be the first indicator of an underlying vascular disease.
For this reason, when a persistent change in sexual function occurs, a urological assessment aims not only to improve a patient’s intimate life, but also to rule out potential associated health problems.
Many sexual health conditions are treatable. In certain cases, they may also provide an opportunity for the early diagnosis of other diseases.
Data that invite reflection
International data reinforce the need to address sexual health with clinical rigour and without prejudice.
Every day, more than one million people aged between 15 and 49 contract a curable sexually transmitted infection worldwide. In Europe, infections such as gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia have shown a rising trend in recent years.
In addition, it is estimated that up to half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 may experience some degree of erectile dysfunction during their lifetime. Despite this, awareness and medical consultation remain insufficient.
These figures should not cause alarm, but awareness. Prevention, early diagnosis and health education are fundamental pillars of good sexual health.
Cancer, urological surgery and sexual function: a necessary conversation
One of the aspects I consider essential in my practice is speaking clearly about the potential impact of certain surgical procedures on male sexual function.
Procedures for prostate, bladder or kidney cancer, as well as complex prostate or pelvic surgeries, may affect erection, ejaculation or sensitivity. The extent of this impact depends on multiple factors: the type of pathology, the surgical technique used, preservation of the nerve structures and the patient’s pre-operative condition.
Anticipating these possible consequences is part of responsible medical practice. It is not only about treating disease, but also about preserving quality of life wherever possible.
Urology has advanced considerably in recent decades. Minimally invasive techniques and approaches designed to better preserve neurovascular structures have reduced functional impact in many cases. When difficulties do arise, we now have effective treatments available, ranging from oral medication and erectile function rehabilitation programmes to surgical solutions such as penile prostheses in selected cases.
Recovery of sexual function forms part of the rehabilitation process following illness or surgery. It is not a secondary issue; it directly influences mental health, self-esteem and relationship dynamics.
Breaking myths and normalising consultation
If I had to summarise the message of European Sexual Health Day, it would be this: talking is the first step towards improvement.
No man should assume that losing quality in his intimate life is simply “part of ageing” or an inevitable consequence of having experienced illness. Healthy sexuality is compatible with ageing and with living a full life after cancer or surgery.
As a urologist, my commitment is to provide evidence-based medicine, honest information and care centred on the individual. But it is also to encourage patients to seek advice, to ask questions and to normalise these conversations in the medical consultation.
Because caring for sexual health is, ultimately, caring for overall health.
