Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects men globally and can have both physical and psychological factors. It is such a sensitive and personal issue leading to many myths that prevent people from seeking effective treatment.
Common myths about Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
ED and Age
It is a common myth that ED is experienced in older men only. Though it is more common in older men, it doesn’t mean that younger men are not affected. The likelihood of erectile dysfunction does increase with age, younger men can experience it due to stress, anxiety, diabetes, and lifestyle choices. Studies indicate that up to 25% of ED cases are of men under the age of 40.
ED is in your head
It is a myth that ED is only psychological and can be fixed with a change of mindset or thought process. However, ED is a combination of physical and psychological factors. Physical health factors like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and relationship issues play a role, especially in younger men.
ED can be fixed by testosterone
Men tend to believe that low testosterone levels are the only reason for ED and that taking the supplements will solve it however low testosterone can contribute to low libido, but it isn’t the sole cause of ED. In some men, getting testosterone therapy may help with libido however it isn’t something that works for all.
ED means lack of sexual attraction
It is a myth that men who experience ED are not attracted to their partner. Relationship problems and stress can cause performance anxiety which is one of the factors causing ED and erection problems don’t have much to do with attraction to one partner.
ED medications are dangerous or addictive
There is a myth that medications for ED are risky or that they might become reliant on them. However, they are generally safe when prescribed appropriately and used as directed by the doctor.
ED and other health conditions
Erectile Dysfunction isn’t a dangerous condition but can be an early warning sign of an underlying health problem. It can be due to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or other health issues. Discovering the problem can help find the treatment that can return you to an active sex life and optimum overall health.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
There are many options to treat Erectile Dysfunction. These include approved oral medications, medications injected into the penis whilst also focusing on treating underlying conditions and making few lifestyle changes to improve sexual life.
Oral Medications
Medications for ED commonly include PDE-5 Inhibitors such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and verdanfil. These work by relaxing the blood vessels and thus increasing blood flow to the penis. They are taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before intended sexual activity and have both on-need basis and regular dosing options.
Testosterone levels
Men with low testosterone levels can take hormone replacement therapy to improve libido and energy levels. It can be helpful to those in which low testosterone is the only cause.
Surgical Options – Implants
Penile implants are usually kept for severe cases where other treatments have been ineffective. They offer a high success rate and satisfaction among patients but due to its invasiveness, it is not regularly used.
Other treatments
There are methods such as penile injections, hormone therapy and intraurethral medication which is used to directly induce an erection. This can be effective for men who may not respond to oral medications. The injections are safe and effective however can be intimidating for some.
Other methods of treatment include vacuum erection devices which pumps to create a vacuum around the penis which is a non-invasive way to draw blood into the penis and cause an erection.
Lifestyle and counseling
Many cases of ED can be improved by making healthy lifestyle adjustments. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, weight management, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol can improve blood flow and hormone levels, which support erectile function. Stress can be a contributing factor to ED. Managing it through meditation or counseling can also help improve sexual health.
Psychological causes of ED, such as anxiety, depression, and performance-related stress, can be improved via counseling. Cognitive behavioral therapy, couples counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for men to work through mental barriers to sexual performance.
Consulting a doctor
Individuals with concerns about their sexual health should seek professional help. A discussion with a doctor can help with understanding the myths about ED and the actual treatment options available to you.
