What you need to know about erectile dysfunction
There are many reasons for erection problems. Overcome impotence and learn about erectile dysfunction treatments for an improved sex life
Text: Jo
There are certain things in life that you hope will rise up: your salary, anything you’ve planted, airplanes ….and yes, penises. Erectile dysfunction means that you cannot get and/or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse, and for a fulfilling sex life and optimum sexual health this is generally key. Thankfully, understanding, encouragement and erectile dysfunction treatments can send things skywards again.
Like a chendol café without a queue and a Grab when you really need it, stats on the prevalence of erectile dysfunction in Singapore are hard to come by. Local research tends to refer to studies twenty years ago which revealed that 51.3% of almost 800 respondents reported ED. The older the male the higher the prevalence of ED, with 42.8% reported in men in their forties and being aged above 50 being the single most significant risk factor. More recently, a 2019 review stated that the global prevalence of ED ranges between 3 percent and 76.5 percent of men.
Be aware of underlying causes
Of course, a male experiencing the odd erection problem is perfectly ‘normal’. “Occasionally ED may occur when a guy is tired, stressed or has had too much alcohol, but for most this is usually only a temporary problem,” explains Dr Sundus Hussain-Morgan of International Medical Clinic Healthcare (IMC).
However, if ED becomes recurrent or persistent, medical advice should be sought to learn about available erectile dysfunction treatment and to explore potential underlying causes. For example, a 2014 survey found that 69% of patients suffering from ED had a pre-existing cardiovascular disease, and diabetes leads to a significant risk, with 35% to 50% of men with diabetes developing ED.
“Other reasons behind erection problems can be certain neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease; hormonal causes such as low testosterone which can cause a low libido and ED; certain side-effects of medicines; and drug and alcohol abuse,” continues Hussain-Morgan. She adds that from a mental health perspective, stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties can all contribute, which can then perpetuate the problem at hand. “ED can also cause poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety and sexual anxiety. Some men may make excuses or be in denial about the situation, some may not want to discuss the issue with their partner, and relationship problems may begin to develop.”
Optimise your mental and holistic health
As with many distressing moments in life, looking after your overall physical health and mental wellbeing can help to get you back on track. “Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, cutting down on alcohol, abstaining from smoking and optimising your mental health will further serve to reduce the risk of ED,” Hussain-Morgan says, “and adopting a well-balanced diet low in processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats will all help.”
Indeed, several studies have shown that ED is less common and may improve with a Mediterranean diet that is high in fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains using olive oil as the cooking oil. Other research has shown that consuming foods high in flavonoids (phytonutrients found in the likes of strawberries, blueberries, citrus products and red wine) can reduce the incidence of ED and improve your sexual health.
Diet aside, providing support and empathy to someone going through a sensitive condition such as this is imperative. “Learn about ED yourself, encourage your partner to seek medical attention, and inform them that many successful erectile dysfunction treatments are available,” suggests Hussain-Morgan. “If your partner is unforthcoming, give them time and space to come to terms with the changes. Stay positive, continue to show him the same affection and take the focus off sex.”
Help is available but can only be implemented after an examination. Bloods tests are usually offered, and treatment is tailored accordingly, for example, for some this may be as simple as switching up medication. For others, hormonal therapy or medication such as Viagra increase blood flow into the penis. Creams applied to the penis, injections, tablets inserted into the urethra, vacuum device or penile implants can all assist with ED.
Importantly, counselling is recommended for those with an underlying mental health problem that is causing ED. Click here for The Soothe’s comprehensive list of medical health professionals who can help you to gently move on up (literally) for a better sex life and improved sexual health.
This article is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from a qualified health professional for any symptoms relating to erectile dysfunction.
