What To Expect When Your Husband Takes Viagra

Viagra, the little blue pill, has been a game-changer for many men struggling with erectile dysfunction (ED). Before we go any further, let’s establish that this article will include medical and intimate language.

While Viagra can enhance a man’s sexual abilities, it can also present unexpected challenges in a relationship. A study on women’s experiences with their partners’ use of Viagra found concerns about changes in sexual activities and worries about the impacts on both partners.

If you and your partner are considering Viagra for ED, it’s important to understand not just the physical effects but the potential emotional repercussions as well.

First, know that you’re not alone. ED is incredibly common, with 48% of men 65-74 years old and 52.2% of men 75 years and older age group meeting the diagnostic criteria for ED. The causes can vary, from health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease to side effects of certain medications. Additionally, stress, anxiety, and relationship issues can exacerbate ED.

Fortunately, Viagra is highly effective. A husband who has felt anxious and frustrated by ED may suddenly feel like a new man with Viagra. But that can come with complications for women. With open communication, realistic expectations, and perhaps a little blue pill, you may fall in love again.

Understanding How Viagra Works

To grasp what to expect from Viagra, it’s helpful first to understand what’s happening in the body during erectile dysfunction. ED occurs when there isn’t enough blood flow to the penis to produce or sustain an erection. This can happen due to various physical conditions that affect the blood vessels or nerves, as well as psychological factors like stress and anxiety.

Viagra and similar drugs treat Erectile Dysfunction by blocking the chemical reaction that allows blood to leave an erect penis. The active ingredient in Viagra is sildenafil, which belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Here’s a step-by-step of how it works:

1. When a man becomes sexually aroused, his brain sends chemical messages to the penis that cause the muscles of the corpora cavernosa (the spongy erectile tissue that runs along the length of the penis) to relax.
2. This relaxation allows blood to flow in and fill the open spaces, making the penis expand and harden—producing an erection.
3. Usually, after sexual activity, another chemical called PDE5 breaks down the messaging molecules that keep the penis erect, allowing the blood to drain and the erection to subside. In men with ED, this process happens too quickly, making it difficult to maintain an erection. Sildenafil in Viagra inhibits PDE5, keeping the chemical “on message” to promote better blood flow.

It’s important to note that Viagra does not produce an automatic erection. Sexual stimulation is still necessary. The drug simply helps the natural process by enhancing blood flow when a man is already aroused.

Does Viagra Work?

Viagra helps improve the ability to achieve and maintain erections but does not affect the frequency of sexual activity. Clinical studies have examined the effectiveness of the little blue pill. In one study, the average of successful intercourse attempts increased to about 66% with Viagra compared to 20% with a placebo.

Viagra has been shown to improve erectile function in men with erectile dysfunction significantly. In clinical studies, improved erections were reported in:

• 63% of men taking 25 mg
• 74% of men taking 50 mg
• 82% of men taking 100 mg
• Only 24% of men taking a placebo reported improvements.

Using Viagra Effectively

Viagra is typically taken 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. Taking it on an empty stomach is usually advised, as a big meal can delay absorption and make it take longer to work. Effects can last for about 4 hours, although this can vary.

The dosage usually starts at 50mg but may be adjusted to 25mg or 100mg, depending on effectiveness and side effects. A healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage.

While Viagra helps many men overcome ED, it’s not a universal solution. Some men, such as those with certain heart conditions or taking specific medications like nitrates, may not be able to use Viagra safely. Others may experience side effects. It’s crucial to talk with a doctor to determine if Viagra is suitable for an individual situation.

What to Expect When Your Husband Takes Viagra 

For men who have struggled with erectile dysfunction, Viagra can feel like a miracle drug, restoring their ability to get and keep an erection sufficient for penetrative sex. But what does that look like in practice? 

Here’s a rundown of the most common physical effects men experience when they start taking Viagra.

Better Erections

The primary effect of Viagra is improved erectile function. With the drug in their system, men are more likely to achieve an erection when sexually stimulated. Many men also report:

• Firmer, fuller-feeling erections compared to those without medication.
• Erections that last long enough to complete intercourse.
• Shorter refractory period (time between erections), enabling more frequent sex.

However, it’s important to note that Viagra is not an aphrodisiac. It does not cause an automatic erection—sexual stimulation is still necessary. The drug simply helps a man respond more readily to stimulation and maintain his erection longer.

Potential Side Effects

While Viagra is generally well tolerated, some men do experience side effects. The most common include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion  
• Vision changes (blurred vision, sensitivity to light, blue tint to vision).
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under the skin, especially in the face).

These effects are usually mild and go away after a few hours as the drug leaves the system. However, in rare cases, men can have a prolonged, painful erection (priapism), sudden vision loss, or hearing decrease. If these serious side effects occur, seek medical help right away.

What About Sexual Sensation and Orgasm?

Some men worry that Viagra will make sex less pleasurable or prevent them from climaxing. The good news is that studies show Viagra does not dampen sensation or negatively impact orgasm. In fact, by reducing the stress and performance anxiety that often come with ED, Viagra may help some men enjoy sex more and experience more satisfaction.

It’s worth noting, though, that while Viagra helps men get and keep erections, it doesn’t necessarily address other possible sexual issues like premature ejaculation, low desire, or difficulty achieving orgasm. These concerns may still be present even with improved erectile function.

A Women’s Perspective on Viagra Use

For most men, Viagra means a return to more predictable, dependable erections and the ability to enjoy penetrative sex again. It’s a highly effective tool for overcoming the physical limitations of ED.

But it’s not a magic pill. Sexual arousal and stimulation are still key, and the drug can’t compensate for a lack of desire or emotional connectedness. Open communication with a partner and realistic expectations are just as important as ever.

Navigating the Emotional Side Effects

While much of the focus on Viagra is on the physical effects, it’s just as important to consider the psychological and relationship impacts. Introducing a new medication into your sex life can bring up complex emotions for both partners.

For the man taking Viagra, finally being able to achieve and maintain an erection can be a massive confidence boost. He may feel like he’s regained a part of his masculinity that was lost. He may be eager to have sex more often and in different ways than he could before.

But he may also feel anxious about his performance, wondering if the Viagra will work consistently or if his partner will be satisfied. He may feel self-conscious about needing medication to have sex.

For the partner, seeing their man regain his sexual function can also be exciting. It can feel like a return to the passion and spontaneity of their early relationship.

However, some partners may feel pressure to have sex more often now that erections are more readily available. They may worry that saying no will cause their partner to take it personally or seek satisfaction elsewhere.

There may also be a sense of loss if sex has been infrequent or absent for a long time. The partner may have gotten used to non-sexual forms of intimacy or settled into a comfortable routine without sex. Readjusting the relationship to incorporate an active sex life again can be challenging.

The key to navigating these emotional waters is open, honest communication. Couples should make time to talk about their feelings, expectations, and concerns around Viagra use and their sex life in general. 

Tips for the Emotional Side Effects of Your Husband Taking Viagra

• Choose a neutral time to talk, not right before or after sex, when emotions may be running high.
• Use “I” statements to express your feelings without blame or accusation.  
• Listen actively and aim to understand your partner’s perspective.
• Be open to compromise and finding solutions that work for both of you.
• Consider seeing a couples counselor or sex therapist if you’re having trouble communicating or agreeing on a path forward.

Remember, emotional intimacy is just as important as sexual intimacy in a relationship. Make sure you’re also tending to your connection outside the bedroom with regular date nights, shared hobbies, and affectionate touch.

How To Tell If A Man Is Taking Viagra

Determining if a man is taking Viagra can be challenging without direct communication, but some potential signs and side effects might indicate its use:

• Common Side Effects: Headaches, facial flushing, and nasal congestion are some of the most common side effects of Viagra. If these symptoms occur shortly after potential use, they might be related to Viagra.
• Behavioral Changes: Some men may experience increased confidence or changes in sexual behavior due to the improved ability to maintain an erection.
• Physical Symptoms: Viagra can cause temporary low blood pressure, which might lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. Observing these symptoms, especially after sexual activity, could be indicative.
• Visual Changes: Some users report mild and temporary vision changes, such as a blue tinge or increased light sensitivity.
• Duration of Effects: The effects of Viagra typically last about 4-5 hours, but it requires sexual stimulation to work. This means that an erection won’t occur without arousal, even if the drug is active in the system.

While these signs might suggest Viagra use, they are not definitive. The most reliable way to know if someone is taking Viagra is through open and honest communication.

Busting Viagra Myths

There’s a lot of hype and misinformation out there about what Viagra can and can’t do. Let’s dispel some common myths:

• Myth: Viagra gives you an instant erection.
• Reality: Viagra only works when combined with sexual stimulation. It is not an automatic erection pill.

• Myth: Viagra makes you want sex all the time.
• Reality: Viagra does not increase sex drive; it only improves the physical ability to get an erection when aroused.

• Myth: With Viagra, your erection will last for hours. 
• Reality: The effects of Viagra typically last 4-5 hours, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have a continuous erection that whole time. You’ll still need stimulation and arousal.

• Myth: Viagra will fix all your sexual problems.
• Reality: While Viagra is highly effective for ED, it doesn’t address other potential issues like premature ejaculation, low libido, or relationship conflicts that may be impacting your sex life.

• Myth: You don’t need to talk to a doctor before trying Viagra.
• Reality: Viagra is a prescription medication with risks and potential side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s safe for you to use.

Don’t believe everything you hear about this little blue pill. Getting accurate information and having realistic expectations can help you make the most of Viagra’s benefits for your relationship.

Reinvigorating Your Love Life

Viagra can feel like a game-changer for couples affected by erectile dysfunction. And for many, it is. With more reliable erections and the ability to have intercourse, a whole world of sexual possibilities may reopen.

Remember, Viagra is a tool, not a solution on its own. Use it to recommit to your relationship, explore new ways to connect, and be open to experimentation. Also, focus on nurturing emotional bonds, practicing empathy and forgiveness, and building trust and friendship. 

Combined with open communication, a sense of adventure, and love, it can bring a spark back to your relationship.