This archive report was first published on 13 September 2021.
Performance anxiety in men is a widespread issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. It can manifest in various ways, from the fear of erectile dysfunction to the anxiety of not meeting expectations in the bedroom.
Prof. Joachim Osur, a reproductive and sexual health expert at Amref International University, notes that new opportunities can revive old fears, which can persist and worsen the problem. He explains, 'The fear can be very strong that actually, the person will end up failing. Performance anxiety rises from failure and also worsens with failure.'
According to Prof. Osur, insecurities can arise when men worry about their 'bed scores' and how their partners view them. This can lead to premature ejaculation, which is a common cause of performance anxiety. Additionally, a lack of appropriate sex education can contribute to the problem, as some men may lack techniques for achieving or giving pleasure.
Residents of Lamu, Nyaye Nzae and Hussein Bashora, also share their perspectives on the issue. Nyaye believes that erectile dysfunction is linked to genes and blood type, while Hussein blames the overuse of performance-enhancing pills. However, Prof. Osur emphasizes that erectile dysfunction is a medical condition that requires a full assessment and treatment of the underlying cause.
Other underlying conditions that can contribute to performance anxiety include psychological issues, relationship problems, and previous traumatic sexual experiences. Prof. Osur notes that the disease is individualized, and treatment should focus on addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
Women also experience performance anxiety, particularly those who experience pain during sex. This can lead to sex avoidance and further exacerbate the problem. Prof. Osur highlights that women's sexual response cycle is different from men's, and they may not experience the stages in the same order.
