Erectile Dysfunction & Male Sexual Health

Erectile dysfunction and other male sexual health are major issues many men face, especially as they grow older. Also known as ED and impotence, erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of issues. Anxiety about performance issues can often be a major cause of erectile dysfunction, along with physical health. Performance issues can present themselves in a variety of ways, from premature ejaculations to the inability to get or maintain an erection. In some cases, health issues or even medications can cause ED and other performance issues, but these problems sometimes feel embarrassing to talk about with a doctor, which makes treating it more difficult. However, talking to your doctor about the issue is the best way to overcome them. There are medications, hormone treatments, psychological therapy, and other treatments out there that can help. Read on to find out what you need to know about erectile dysfunction and male sexual health.

Frequently Asked Questions ( 10 )   Add a Question

  1. What is the most common cause of performance issues?
    Reply

    It can become a vicious cycle of anxiety about performance that makes performance worse, which of course increases the anxiety and makes it even worse. Anxiety is a major culprit in many performance issues, and learning to control that anxiety would be a good first step. However, there may also be medical conditions or medications that contribute to performance issues, so it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor to rule out other possible causes.

    Best Answer
  2. What is the most common treatment for ED?
    Reply

    There are several medications that help increase the blood flow to the penis. They are known by the names Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis. These are safe for most men and allow erections to be obtained and maintained. These are available by prescription from a doctor.

    Best Answer
  3. Is erectile dysfunction related to low testosterone?
    Reply

    One cause of performance problems can be low levels of testosterone. There are people with below-normal levels that do not have issues, but increasing the level has helped in many cases. Hormone replacement therapy can be done with injections, patches or gels. There are clinics specializing in this type treatment, but your doctor can also prescribe treatment if it is determined it may be beneficial.

    Best Answer
  4. Should men see a therapist about erectile dysfunction?
    Reply

    A licensed counselor can help with dealing with these type issues, and in some cases just reading self-help books will be of benefit. Overcoming anxiety is a big issue, and there can be many more psychological issues. A background where a person was taught that sex is dirty, for example, could lead to performance issues and should be worked through with a licensed therapist.

    Best Answer
  5. What lifestyle choices lead to erectile dysfunction?
    Reply

    Lifestyle choices can affect a man's ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Using alcohol, tobacco, and drugs can inhibit sexual performance, as can lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet. Getting exercise, rest and eating properly can greatly reduce overall stress levels. These things keep your body functioning well too, and that all work together to make you more healthy. Anything you can do to reduce overall stress in your life will reduce anxiety, and will make you more able to relax with your partner.

    Best Answer
  6. Do specific exercises help erectile dysfunction?
    Reply

    Kegel muscles are muscles in the pelvic area, and exercising them can help in many cases. This can tighten the muscles that control the blood flow to the penis which is how erections happen. Yoga can also help your body learn to relax itself, which is key to overcoming anxiety.

    Best Answer
  7. Will smoking or drinking affect or worsen performance issues?
    Reply

    Diet plays a big role because what you put into your body has a tremendous impact on how well it performs in any area. Avoiding alcohol when you plan to have sex can help, and smoking has been shown to have a negative impact on sexual performance. Cutting back on both of those will likely help to some degree.

    Best Answer
  8. Are there other symptoms that accompany erectile dysfunction?
    Reply

    Other symptoms of ED include reduced libido over an extended period of time, enlargement of the prostate, fatigue, high blood pressure, and depression. Some of the causes of these symptoms can be related to heart disease, brain and nervous system disorders, diabetes, and hormone issues.

    Best Answer
  9. What causes erectile dysfunction?
    Reply

    When there is arousal, the muscles in the penis relax and blood flow increases, and that makes the penis increase in size and able to perform. Once ejaculation occurs, the blood flow dissipates and the erection subsides. Anything that disrupts or hinders this process, can keep a person from getting an erection, resulting in ED.

    Best Answer
  10. Will vitamins or supplements help those with ED?
    Reply

    The jury is out on the effectiveness of many of these supplements, but in many cases, vitamins can improve your overall health, and improved sexual performance could be a natural result. Products like Korean Ginseng or Staminol, sold by GNC, have been effective in improving overall health.These supplements could give your body nutrients it is missing that could be hindering sexual performance.

    Best Answer