Crazy for wanting to remain impotent?

[Semaj02]

My g/f and I are both 16. We've been dating for almost a year. Both of us believe in saving sex for marriage and this is a commitment we've really struggled with at times.

A couple months back I began taking medication for an anxiety disorder. The drug is definitely helping, but it's completely killed my ability to get an erection. I know it has to be the drug because I never had this problem before I started taking it and because erectile dysfunction is listed as a possible side effect.

I told my girlfriend about my situation. She was sympathetic, but I can tell she feels relieved too. To tell the truth, I feel relieved too. When we make out, we're both more relaxed knowing that it can't lead to anything more.

My doctor attends the same church we do, so I recently was able to pull him aside and talk about this side effect without having to make an appointment to go see him. He assured me it's nothing to worry about. It's not permanent or anything. If I switch to another medication, it should go away on its own.

Thing is, I'm not sure I want to switch medications. I'm actually content to continue taking the drug I'm on and just stay impotent for now. Am I crazy for wanting to do this? All I know is it's less of a struggle this way and that I like seeing my girlfriend relaxed and happy.

 

[FreeinChrist]

You need to discuss this with your doctor. There may be other side effects that you don't know about.

 

[mjones66]

I agree with what the poster above said. When you are talking psychiatric pharmaceutical drugs, like antidepressants, benzos, antipsychotics- there are a lot of side effects that even doctors do not readily know about.

I recommend doing research into this drug you are taking, learn how it works, and what the side effects are, in addition to talking to your doctor. Psychiatric drugs can completely rework and change your brain's chemistry and functioning, especially if you take it long term, and you may not know what to expect getting off of it or taking it long term.

I say this as an individual who got off an antidepressant after a number of years, and definitely had side effects. I wish you all the best, really. But I definitely would recommend doing some research.