Sex File: My orgasm has gone missing

Strong pain meds are fantastic at helping people to manage major back problems, but they play havoc with sexual function because they reduce sexual interest and arousal

When your brain is focused on pain avoidance it can't simultaneously attend to erotic cues. Picture: iStock 

I'm on medication for a back problem, which has made my libido vanish. When I do have sex with my boyfriend, I can't reach orgasm. In all honesty, I'd rather not bother for a while, but I'm worried that if I let our sex life die it will be hard to get it back on track. I'll be on these meds for a few more months. How do I keep our relationship intimate in the meantime?

I know you have spoken to your doctor about your medication, but have you explained that the sexual side-effects are getting you down? Research by the department of rheumatology at El Ayachi Hospital in Rabat found that up to 81% of patients with chronic low-back pain reported sexual problems, yet 66% of them never discussed this issue with their healthcare provider.