Sexual Health For Men

Erectile dysfunction also referred to as “ED,” is a condition that affects men, making sexual intercourse difficult as a result of being incapable to achieve and sustain the necessary erection.

Although occasional difficulties getting and maintaining an erection do not indicate a serious problem, persistent erectile dysfunction is and can be a source of stress as a result of diminishing self-confidence and relationship difficulties.

Moreover, erectile dysfunction may be the root cause of a serious health concern that requires treatment as well as a potential indicator of heart disease.
Not getting the proper treatment for erectile dysfunction will not only continue to hinder sexual intercourse but will become more severe with advancing age. According to current statistics, only 1 in 5 men with erectile issues seek help, mainly due to embarrassment.

Sexual arousal in men is a complicated process, which engages blood vessels, the brain, emotions, hormones, and muscles of the body. Erectile dysfunction can occur when the health of these tissues is compromised.

Additionally, lifestyle, stress and mental health can often cause and/or exacerbate erectile dysfunction. In many cases, both physical health conditions and psychological problems can trigger erectile dysfunction.

Physical medical conditions which can cause erectile dysfunction include:

• Heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis (clogged blood vessels).
• Diabetes, obesity, and sudden weight gain.
• Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Peyronie’s disease (a condition that causes scar tissue inside the penis).
• Abuse of alcohol and other substances.
• Prescription drugs, particularly those for treatment of depression/anxiety, blood pressure, antihistamines, and pain.
• The use of tobacco products and other nicotine delivery products.
• Sleep problems such as insomnia.
• Prostate cancer or enlarged prostate treatment and/or therapies.

Some of these psychological/mental factors include:

• Anxiety, depression, mental health issues and stress.
• Problems with a significant other such as lack of communication, performance anxiety, stress, and understanding.
• Age of afflicted and age of the partner.

Psychological problems that can result from erectile dysfunction may include:

• An unsatisfied sex life.
• Increased anxiety and/or stress.
• Bad body image, embarrassment, low self-esteem, and shame.
• Relationship stress due to feelings of not being able to satisfy the partner and/or lack of ability to get a partner pregnant.