Studies show that prolonged stress may have a bad impact on men’s sexual health.

Dr. Tra Anh Duy at Men’s Health Clinic in HCMC was quoted by thanhnien.vn as saying that effective stress control is an important factor in protecting men’s sexual health. Following are stress control methods recommended by the doctor. Doing physical exercises regularly: Workouts are a natural and effective way to relieve stress. A study in the medical journal Archives of Internal Medicine indicates that physical activities can help relieve stress and increase the release of endorphin – the hormone that can alleviate pain, lower stress, and improve mood. Physical exercises can help improve blood circulation, thus reducing erectile dysfunction (impotence). “Running, practicing yoga, cycling and swimming are highly recommended,” said Dr. Duy. “Yoga can help relieve stress, regulate breathing and improve sexuality.” Sound sleep: Sleep plays an important role in recovering energy and balancing hormones. Good sleep can help reduce cortisol (the primary stress hormone), thus improving sexual health. You should sleep 7-8 hours a day in a quiet and comfortable bedroom, which can help boost energy recovery and testosterone production. Meditation and breathing exercises: These have long been proved to be effective measures to soothe the mind and relieve stress, which helps boost the production of testosterone and maintain sexuality. Take 10-20 minutes to practice meditation and breathing exercises. This can help you improve your mood and sexual health. Healthy diet: Diet plays an important role in maintaining sexual health and lowering stress. Salmon, mackerel, drupe, chia seeds, eggs, vegetables and fruits have abundant antioxidants and are nutritious foods that are good for sexual and mental health. These nutrients can also help regulate the stress hormone cortisol. Logical working management: Managing your work logically can help relieve stress and pressure. According to Dr. Duy, it is recommended to follow Pomodoro Technique, a time management method requiring you to break work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. This can help optimize your work and mitigate unnecessary pressure. Building positive relationship: A study in the Journal of Marriage and Family shows that a happy life with your spouse or partner can help mitigate the bad impact of stress on sexual health. You should therefore spend enough time staying with family, beloved ones and friends, and for social activities. Expert consulting: In case prolonged stress exerts bad impact on sexual health, it is better to consult your doctor. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and stress reduction therapies have been proved to be effective in adjusting body reactions against stress and regulating hormones.