Viagra is a medication, often touted as an “aid for impotence,” that can help to enhance your sexual experience. Taking the drug before sex can increase the likelihood of you having an orgasm, due to it temporarily easing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. However, how long should you wait before having intimate physical contact with your partner?
While there is no concrete answer to this question, a doctor’s discretion is paramount when deciding whether or not to prescribe you Viagra and the best course of treatment ultimately depends on your own situation.
If you’re deciding whether or not to take Viagra for the first time, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor so that you can be sure that you’re not at elevated risk of developing adverse effects. Moreover, if you’re going to be taking the drug for impotence, it’s important to bear in mind that the effects may not be immediate. Taking too much Viagra can result in serious adverse effects, so be careful not to overuse the drug.
What is Impotence?
Impotence is the medical term for the inability to obtain or maintain an erection adequate for sexual intercourse. It’s estimated that around 300 million men worldwide are affected by some form of erectile dysfunction (ED).
In general, impotence is categorized as either psychological or physical. In the case of psychological impotence the individual is unable to attain an erection because of a mental factor like depression or anxiety. On the other hand, physical impotence is caused by a physical factor, such as a neurological disorder, diabetes, or heart disease. The mainstays of treatment for both types of impotence are similar: counseling and exercise. However, in some cases medications like Viagra may be indicated.
Should You Take Viagra Before Or After Your Partner?
It’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario, especially when it comes to Viagra. The dose and how long you take it for will depend on your own situation. As a general rule of thumb, it is best to take Viagra after your partner, so that you can maximize the potential for successful intercourse. Taking the drug before your partner may result in sub-optimal sexual stimulation, which can lead to distress for both of you.
If you’re going to be taking the drug for the first time, it’s advisable to try a smaller dose initially and gradually increase it over the course of a week or so. It’s also beneficial to discuss with your doctor how you’re going to deal with any potential side effects, as these can vary from mild (such as headache) to serious (such as liver damage).
If you’re planning on using Viagra in the near future, you should familiarize yourself with the drug’s components and properties. Knowing what to look out for and what to expect can help to improve your experience when taking the medication. For instance, if you notice that your blood pressure has increased significantly while on Viagra, you should discontinue use of the drug and consult with your doctor. In some cases, this may require you to alter your medication schedule or not take the drug at all.
How Long Does It Take For Viagra To Work?
The exact amount of time it takes for Viagra to work depends on your own situation. However, it’s generally accepted that you’ll need to wait at least 15 minutes after taking the drug before having sex. After that, you can engage in intimate physical contact without worrying about your lack of potency. In some instances, the effect may not be immediate and in these cases, it can take up to an hour before you can feel the improvement. The time it takes for Viagra to reach its peak effect also varies from patient to patient, but it’s usually somewhere between 30 and 60 minutes.
If you take Viagra within the first 15 minutes of waking up, you may notice an improvement in potency that lasts for about an hour. However, if you wait until later in the day, the effect of the drug may not be as strong and you may need to wait longer to feel its benefits.
When it comes to sexual functioning, timing is everything. You can’t expect the drug to work immediately or even within a relatively short period of time. So, take your time and be patient.