How to Address Performance Anxiety for Better Sex

Sex is a wonderful experience that brings you and your partner closer. It fosters intimacy and helps build a stronger bond. However, the joys of sex can be marred by anxiety. Anxiety can stem from negative thoughts about your ability to perform in bed and satisfy your partner. If you are frequently anxious before sexual encounters, you might have performance anxiety, and it can throw you off your game. Read on and we will share with you the secrets of how to break the cycle of performance anxiety. 

Communication is Key 

It sounds cliché but open and honest communication can work wonders. If you are feeling sex anxiety symptoms like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, or the inability to orgasm during sex, you may need to talk to your partner. 

Don’t be afraid to open up with your partner. For all you know, your partner doesn’t have any idea about the anxiety you are feeling. If you feel that you are not living up to your partner’s expectations, tell your partner. Disclose with your partner the sexual activities you are uncomfortable doing. 

It’s also important to manage your partner’s expectations. Knowing that not all sexual encounters will be perfect can help relieve pressure. If your partner thinks that you are a sex expert when you’re not, man up and admit your limitations. Properly setting expectations lets your partner know what to expect from you. 

Take Time to Relax 

Performance anxiety usually stems from stress. You might feel stressed because of your inadequate sexual experience, your body image, or because of stress from the workplace. If stress is causing performance anxiety, you might want to try relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, massage, yoga, and even music and art therapy. 

The best sexual experiences are those that happen in a loving and relaxed environment. If you feel tense before having sex, do some breathing exercises. Deep breathing exercises can help you relax so your mind is focused solely on having enjoyable and meaningful sex. 

Practising Tai Chi or Yoga can help you have a calmer and more relaxed personality. This can benefit not just your sex life but your personal and professional life.  

Explore Intimacy 

Intimacy is not just about sex. There are non-sexual ways of getting intimate with your partner. Cuddling, kissing, and hugging are non-sexual ways that help you grow closer to your partner. 

Another option is engaging in activities that heighten the sexual connection between you and your partner. For example, you can learn how to give sensual massages. You can also try using sex toys and gadgets to add spice to your usual routines. 

Focus more on foreplay. An extended foreplay can ensure that your partner is at the peak of sexual pleasure before penetration. Foreplay doesn’t require that you are fully erect the entire time so it reduces the pressure of staying erect during long penetrations. 

Invest in a Healthy Lifestyle 

Switching to a healthier lifestyle is not just good for your health, it can also help reduce performance anxiety. One of the main causes of performance anxiety is poor body image. If you see yourself as unattractive because you are overweight, your ego will take a hit and it might affect how you perform in bed. By making exercise a part of your daily routine, you can keep your weight at a normal level. Exercising can also help improve your strength and stamina. Knowing that you can last long in bed can help ease your anxiety. 

Eating food with less sugar and fat content can help you manage your weight. Another thing you can do is get enough quality sleep each night. Fatigue can worsen anxiety and affect your performance. Sleeping is also your body’s way of recharging and recuperating. A good night’s sleep can help ensure that you have enough energy for sexual intercourse. 

Seek Medical Help 

If you feel that your performance anxiety is getting out of hand, don’t be afraid to seek help from a licensed doctor. Tell your doctor about your sex anxiety symptoms for a better diagnosis. Your doctor can help unearth the root cause of your anxiety and develop an appropriate treatment plan. They can prescribe medications or refer you to a specialist who is better equipped to help you with your issue. 

Conclusion 

Performance anxiety is a real issue that negatively affects sexual relationships. It can result in sexual frustration. It can also blemish an otherwise amazing romantic relationship. The good news is you can avoid performance anxiety with the help of the male performance anxiety solutions above. By communicating with your partner, implementing positive lifestyle changes, exploring intimacy, practising relaxation techniques, or seeking professional help, you can conquer performance anxiety and be the man that your partner deserves.  

If you are dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE), feel free to book a FREE consultation with MHC. Men’s Health Clinic (MHC) offers a comprehensive and customised treatment plan for ED and PE. We are partnered with different licensed specialists such as psychologists, sex and relationship counsellors, and even nutritionists who can address the root cause of your performance anxiety and provide a personalised treatment plan.