This is embarrassing for me to ask this question, but here goes... Is it wrong to take medication (viagra) to achieve erection? Or is taking a medication for this problem not contrary to Church teaching? I've asked my physician and viagra is not contraindicated for diabetics - only patients on heart medications.
My wife feels that God may be calling us to a holier station by giving up sexual intimacy and that my physical problem may be a "sign" from God to that effect. I disagree and think this is something that can be dealt with medically since it is a common problem with diabetics. And I am not in agreement to now become, for lack of a better term, "celibate". I was called to be a married man and believe that sexual intimacy between husband and wife is a celebration and an integral part of the sacrament of marriage. Is there any clearly defined teaching from the Church about this dilemma of ours?
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Dear W.
First, my prayers as you and your wife face this time of transition in your lives. To take Viagra is morally acceptable. It restores a natural function. (You sometimes hear Viagra compared to birth control pills, but in fact they are almost the exact opposite since the pill takes away a natural function, fertility.)
A couple might be called to abstinence in marriage for a variety of reasons, but one party cannot impose abstinence on the other. (see 1 Cor 7:4)
I encourage you and your wife to continue to pray, dialogue and seek competent medical and spiritual advice. My prayers are with you.
God bless,
Fr. Bloom
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