Understanding Viagra: What You Need to Know If Your Partner Is Considering It
Viagra is often touted as a ‘miracle pill’ for men struggling with erectile dysfunction, but there’s still a lot of misunderstanding around it. If your partner is thinking about using Viagra, here’s what you need to know about the medication, its effects, and how it may impact your relationship.
Viagra Doesn’t Create Instant Results
It’s important to understand that Viagra isn’t a magic solution that instantly produces an erection. Sexual arousal is still required to activate the drug’s effects. In other words, you can’t just sit back and wait for the magic to happen. Viagra needs sexual stimulation to work its way into action, so it’s essential for both partners to engage in the experience.
He Still Needs to Be Attracted to You
One common misconception is that Viagra will make men instantly more attracted to their partners. In reality, Viagra doesn’t increase sexual desire or arousal. If your partner doesn’t feel attracted to you, the pill won’t work. Viagra merely helps with the physical aspects of an erection, but emotional and physical connection still play a crucial role in the experience.
How Viagra Can Benefit Women Too
While Viagra won’t magically turn your partner into a great lover, it can improve the sexual experience for both of you. In fact, 50% of women whose partners use Viagra report an improvement in their sex life. Many women also feel more emotionally intimate (about a third), and one in five say that Viagra has helped ‘save’ their relationship. While the pill won’t resolve relationship issues like poor communication, it can certainly improve the quality of intimacy.
Changes to Your Sex Life: What to Expect
You may notice that your sexual dynamic changes once your partner begins using Viagra. If you’ve spent time adjusting to his erectile difficulties and focusing on other forms of intimacy, you might feel a shift as his erections return. Some women find themselves feeling pressured to have sex more often, not wanting to “waste” the pill or let their partner down. This new dynamic might take some adjustment, especially if it feels like there’s an added expectation to be “sexual” more frequently.
Be Mindful: Prolonged Sex Isn’t Always Better
A potential downside of Viagra is that it shortens the time between orgasm and achieving another erection. While your partner might see this as a benefit, it’s important to note that prolonged intercourse may not always be what you desire. Extended sessions without proper lubrication can cause discomfort, including vaginal abrasions, and may increase the risk of yeast infections.
Planning Is Key
For Viagra to work effectively, timing is important. It’s recommended to take the pill about an hour before sex. After taking it, wait at least 30 minutes for it to take effect. However, certain factors can impact its efficacy. Avoid fatty foods, as they can slow down the drug’s absorption, and be mindful of alcohol consumption—too much booze can increase the risk of dizziness or fainting. Lastly, Viagra should not be taken more than once per day.
It’s also worth mentioning that Viagra does not increase a woman’s sex drive. If you were hoping for a miracle boost to your own libido, Viagra won’t provide that.
Exploring Alternatives to Viagra
While Viagra (sildenafil) is the most well-known treatment for erectile dysfunction, other drugs such as Levitra and Cialis work similarly, but with some differences. Cialis can be effective for up to 26 hours, whereas Viagra’s effects typically last for around four hours. There are also natural remedies like ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and reflexology, though their effectiveness may vary.
Is Viagra Suitable for Everyone?
Viagra works for around 80% of men, but it’s not for everyone. Men with certain health conditions, such as heart issues, should avoid taking Viagra. It can also interact with medications for cholesterol and high blood pressure, so it’s essential to consult with a GP before starting the medication.
While Viagra is available for purchase online, buying it without a prescription can be risky. Always ensure that your partner gets a proper health assessment from their GP to avoid complications.
Can You Get Viagra on the NHS?
Yes, Viagra is available on the NHS, but it may only be prescribed if your partner has certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney problems, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, prostate surgery, or some types of cancer. If your partner is experiencing erectile dysfunction, their GP can help determine whether they are eligible for a prescription.
Want to Learn More About Viagra?
For further information on Viagra, including details on how it works and any potential side effects, visit the official NHS page on Viagra (Sildenafil).
Why This Information is Important for Your Relationship
If your partner is considering Viagra or has started using it, it can bring up various emotions and questions about intimacy, expectations, and your relationship. Understanding what Viagra does – and doesn’t do – can help you both navigate this new chapter of your sexual relationship.
If you’re struggling with how this change is impacting your relationship or need guidance on discussing it with your partner, therapy can offer support. As a therapist specialising in relationship and sexual difficulties, I can help you explore the emotional and physical aspects of this transition and improve communication with your partner.
