“Why can’t I keep an erection?” and other ED questions answered
What’s the difference between “erectile dysfunction” and “impotence?”
“Erectile dysfunction” and “impotence” are often used interchangeably.
However, erectile dysfunction can include a wide range of symptoms such as:
- Trouble getting an erection
- Trouble maintaining an erection
- Having an erection not firm enough for sexual intercourse
- Low interest in sex
“Impotence” meanwhile is typically used to just mean not being able to get an erection.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a number of things, my lovelies. Some common things include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Lack of sleep
- Mental/emotional problems (i.e., depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, etc.)
- Injuries
- Performance anxiety
For younger men, ED tends to be more caused by emotional or psychological factors. For men over 40, ED is fairly common. It’s believed at least 40% of men over 40 years old have experienced ED in some form or fashion.
When should I visit the doctor?
If it happens every once in a while, then the problem could go away on its own. However, if the problem persists, then it may be time to consult a doctor or medical professional. As you get older ED, may be a symptom for an underlying health cause, so seeking out a medical opinion may help out in other ways.
What treatment options are available?
There are things you can do to address ED. Things like:
Lifestyle changes
For men under 40, erectile dysfunction is more commonly caused by emotional or psychological factors, such as depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, among others.
For some of these, you may be able to treat the underlying causes by making lifestyle changes such as becoming more active, quitting smoking or drinking, or using stress management activities like yoga or music.
Medications
There are a few underlying health problems that can cause ED, such as diabetes, high cholesterol or kidney diseases. If your ED is caused by a health problem like these, medication can possibly be a way to treat the condition and your ED as a result.
Vacuum constriction devices
aka Penis Pumps. These devices can help you achieve an erection by pulling blood into the penis. These tend to be popular since they cost less than a lot of other treatments and are noninvasive. However, they don’t permanently address ED as the effects only last about 10 to 15 minutes.
Counseling
Since ED can also be caused by emotional or psychological reasons, counseling can go a long way in addressing the underlying causes. It can also give you a space to talk about how ED is affecting you and your emotions without judgment or shame.
If you suffer from ED or other sex problems get in touch with me today.
I provide a safe space where there’s no judgment so we can get you back to where you want to be.
Gabriela.