Erectile Dysfunction

You cannot satisfy your partner? Is your penis soft? Are you ashamed to seek medical help?

Millions of men suffer from erectile dysfunction

You must realize that you are not the only one suffering from this problem - 152 million men around the world share your condition. Almost every second man between 40-70 years of age suffers from erectile dysfunction (ED). You must also know that ageing is not the only reason and there are many different ways of treatment, you just have to be brave, step up to your doctor and explain your condition. Possible causes of decreased blood flow into penis can be: coronary artery diseases, diabetes, nerve diseases, hormonal problems, surgery, chronic conditions, medications. Possible causes are also anxiety, stress, depression, relationship problems, and often unhealthy lifestyle. Alcohol, cigarette smoking, too much sitting, not enough exercise… (Feldman HA, et al. J Urol. 1994;151:54-61)

How do I know when I should visit the doctor?

If you are uncertain, if you have ED, answer the following questions:

• Do you usually get and are able to maintain erection when you are aroused?
• Is your erection always hard enough for penetration?
• Can you maintain a satisfying erection until the end of the intercourse?

If your answer to any of the questions is negative, then it is high time that you visit your doctor. But it is hard to break the ice and actually speak of your problems. You do not know whether to tell it to your doctor or a specialist, you are afraid because the doctor is a young woman and you fear that someone else might hear about your problem? You do not have to fear. Doctors are used to listen to much bigger and more awkward stories than ED. They are sworn to silence by the law and professional ethics, and you are just another patient.

Your doctor will treat you professionally and try to help you, so do not delay with your visit and always go to your personal doctor first. For correct diagnosis it is important that you always answer to your doctor’s questions sincerely and precisely. Questions about food and alcohol are uncomfortable for many, but they are crucial. If you like to drink one glass too many, the doctor will not judge you, but advise you how to change your habits.

How to start the conversation on ED?

If you do not know how to start the conversation, here is a suggestion: “My sexual life is not as it used to be…“

Or you can just ask: “How can I know if I have ED – erectile dysfunction?“

The more you will beat around the bush, the more you will be embarrassed. Waiting rooms are often full of flyers on ED, put one in your pocket and present it to the doctor when you come into his office and sigh aloud. The doctor will prescribe the correct treatment or an additional visit to the specialist after the diagnosis is set.

Find more advice on erectile dysfunction in the Encyclopedia of Sexuality.