Unconsummated Marriage

Although it is hard for many of us to believe, about 10 percent of couples who enter sex therapy have an unconsummated marriage. That means that they have never had intercourse.

There are many reasons for this. One reason is the man's failure to get an erection, even after many attempts, so that finally the couple gives up. Another is ignorance of sexuality. The couple may have little or no information about each other's anatomy or exactly how to accomplish intercourse.

Couples like this often seek help when they want to have children. While the problem can be caused by any number of factors, including sexual problems in the woman, ED is frequently involved.

Psychological problems that lead to erectile dysfunction can be successfully treated by a sex therapist or by a psychologist or psychiatrist, especially if the therapist specializes in sexual dysfunction. Treatment may take the form of individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, or sex therapy. For some people, the services of a professional hypnotist can also be helpful.

What part does Viagra play in this treatment?

Viagra has a higher rate of effectiveness in men who have psychogenic erectile dysfunction than it does in men who have ED due to a physical cause. Therefore, men who have been diagnosed with psychogenic ED should expect to get help from this new pill.

However, when he knows his problem is psychological in origin, a man should pursue therapy while he is on the medication. In this way, he and his partner-if he has one and if she is willing to enter therapy with him - can resolve their problem and it is helped reach a point where the medication is no longer required in order for him to have satisfactory erections.