What lifestyle modifications can I advise to a patient with concerns about sexual function?

Advise the patient on several lifestyle modifications that can support sexual function. Encourage maintaining a healthy weight, as weight loss can improve symptoms related to pelvic floor dysfunction, which may impact sexual function ¹.

Recommend a balanced diet following the Eatwell Guide to support overall health and improve bowel function, which can indirectly benefit sexual health ¹.

Advise reducing caffeine intake and modifying fluid intake if urinary symptoms are present, as these can affect pelvic floor function and comfort during sexual activity ¹.

Encourage regular physical activity, including supervised pelvic floor muscle training or activities like yoga, which may improve pelvic floor strength and sexual function ¹.

Support smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption, as smoking negatively affects fertility and sexual health, and excessive alcohol intake can impair sexual function ³,⁴.

Address psychological factors such as anxiety or depression, which can impact sexual function, by referring to appropriate mental health guidelines ².