When you start taking an SSRI, a class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood. Also known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, these drugs are among the most prescribed medications for depression and anxiety. But for many people, the benefits come with a hidden cost: SSRI sexual dysfunction, a group of sexual side effects including reduced libido, trouble getting or keeping an erection, delayed orgasm, or inability to climax. It’s not rare—it affects up to 70% of users. And yet, most patients never bring it up with their doctor because they assume it’s just part of the deal.
This isn’t about being embarrassed. It’s about your quality of life. SSRIs, including drugs like sertraline, fluoxetine, and escitalopram, work by flooding your brain with serotonin. That helps with mood, but serotonin also shuts down pathways involved in sexual arousal and response. The result? You might feel emotionally better but physically disconnected. And unlike some side effects that fade after a few weeks, sexual problems often stick around—or get worse over time. What’s worse, many doctors don’t proactively ask about it. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone, and you’re not broken.
There are ways to fix this without stopping your medication. Some people switch to an SSRI with lower sexual side effects, like bupropion or vortioxetine. Others add a low-dose medication like sildenafil or use timing strategies—like taking their pill after sex instead of before. Even non-drug approaches, like therapy or adjusting your routine, can help. The key is talking to someone who understands this isn’t just "in your head." It’s a real, measurable biological effect of a common class of drugs.
Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from people who’ve been there. We’ve pulled together posts that cover everything from how SSRIs change your body’s chemistry to what alternatives actually work, and how to talk to your doctor without sounding like you’re complaining. No fluff. No jargon. Just clear, usable info that helps you take back control—without giving up the mental health progress you’ve made.
SSRIs are the most common antidepressants, but side effects like sexual dysfunction, weight gain, nausea, and withdrawal are widespread. This guide breaks down what’s normal, what’s serious, and how to manage it-all backed by real data and patient experiences.
Many common medications - from antidepressants to blood pressure pills - can cause sexual side effects like low desire, erectile dysfunction, or orgasm problems. Learn which drugs are most likely to cause these issues and what you can do about them.