l started taking arvs in 2004 and ever since my sexual performance has deteriorated. l am on efavirenz and lamividine + stavudine.

l am in Mozambique. could this be as a result of these drugs and how can l counter this problem

Rates of sexual dysfunction seem higher in HIV + patients than the already high rates in the general population. It is unclear whether HIV, some of the HIV drugs used in treatment, or stress /psychological issues are the major factors either solely or as a combination of factors. Your question is a good one and a fairly common issue. Many HIV+ males have low testosterone levels that may contribute to sexial dysfunction as can the co-existence of other problems (drug abuse, alcohol, diabetes, smoking, side effects of other drugs such as anti-depressants). I recommend discussing with your HIV provider to sort out the possible contributing factors and to devise an approach to address the problem. KH