Title: 
Testosterone Levels, Sexual Performance, and Happy Marriages

Word Count:
658

Summary:
Many people consider sex as a vital component of a healthy marriage. The sexual act is not just for the purpose of satisfying one's libido. It is about effective communication and intimacy. Problems couples may encounter are boredom, lack of intimacy, low sexual desires, and passionless sex. Another cause of sex problems include the failure of one partner, particularly the men to perform to the expectations of their female partners.


Keywords:
sexual health, diet, stress, anxiety 


Article Body:
Many people consider sex as a vital component of a healthy marriage. The sexual act is not just for the purpose of satisfying one's libido. It is about effective communication and intimacy. Many wives claim that they often feel rejected when their husbands lack intimacy. Lack of intimacy in marriage often takes an  emotional and physical toll on the husband and wife.  Their sexual frustrations can also lead to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. 

On the other hand, couples who engage in regular sexual activities have been reported to be much happier and closer as a marriage partners. Happiness expert Dr. Robert Holden says that, “...sexual intercourse is not just an act of lust or a biological need. Sex is a unique form of communication and intimacy.” According to Dr. Holden:  “One of the big mistakes I think we make in relationships is that we don't give our best energy to the people that matter most.”  He said that married partners should work hard to have a  satisfying sex life along with the balance of a gratifying emotional connection. 

But why do some couples have trouble with their sex lives.  According to marriage experts, sex problems are just normal. Some of the common sex problems couples may encounter are boredom, lack of intimacy, low sexual desire, and passionless sex. 

Another possible reason for sexual frustration may be due to the failure of the man to perform according to the expectations of the female partner.  Low testosterone level is one reason why some men have poor sexual performance. Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is necessary for sperm production, development of the male reproductive system, enhanced libido and energy, and immune system function. In addition to its importance to sexual health, this hormone aids the development of many male characteristics like muscles, hair patterns, and voice modulation. Decreased testosterone production in men is a natural effect of aging. This decline in production may result in a low sex drive, constant tiredness, depression, and energy loss. Low levels of testosterone can also lead to sexual dysfunction, bone loss, muscle atrophy, and mood swings. 

There are different testosterone replacement options that may help many individuals keep normal testosterone levels in the bloodstream. These treatments are available in different dosages and may be administered via injections, patches, gels, and pills. Testosterone injections are usually done in the buttocks. Two popular injected testosterone products are testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate. The former is injected every three to four weeks while the latter is given every 4 weeks. Like many intramuscular injections, these injections may be painful and are usually administered by trained individuals at medical clinics. 
	
On the other hand, testosterone patches and gels, help maintain a constant level of sex hormones and are applied once on a daily basis. They are usually rubbed on clean, dry skin on the back, arms, abdomen, or thighs. These products are not designed to be applied directly to the genitals. Also, putting the patch or gel on broken, oily, or irritated skin should be avoided. Pills containing testosterone undecanoate is another way to boost testosterone levels in the bloodstream. Many testosterone pills are safe to use because they are made from natural ingredients. These pills should be swallowed entirely without chewing. 
	
Taking treatments for low testosterone levels should not be done without the prior advice of a health professional. Men are strongly advised to talk to doctors or other medical specialists and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of these low testosterone medications and treatments. Another focus of attention should be on maintaining a health lifestyle that includes eating good food, engaging in regular exercise, and having adequate sleep. Men should try to improve their sexual performance and communicate intimately with their female partners to nourish each others feelings. Improvement in sexual performance and frequent sex can deepen physical intimacy between married partners and strengthen their bond of love --- which is the real goal of sex in marriage.