Don't be ashamed to talk about erectile dysfunction.

This is a topic that many men are embarrassed to talk about, a little uncomfortable, but it is definitely worth talking about. Do you also have a problem where your penis sometimes does not become erect during sex? Or even if it is erect, you cannot keep it erect for a long time? Don't worry, this is not a problem that only you have. Let's talk about this openly.

Simply put, what is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) , also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection strong enough for sexual intercourse. Some people also call it ``Impotence.''

Our emotions play a big role in this. Feeling relaxed, confident, and sexually aroused is essential for arousal. However, it is normal to have problems with arousal at times. This can happen when you are feeling anxious, worried, angry, or tired. It can also be caused by things like alcohol or drug use. Sometimes, it can be caused by other medical conditions or as a side effect of certain medications.

What are the main types of this condition?

Doctors divide this condition into several main categories, based on the cause that causes it.

How common is this condition?

It's more common than you might think. The risk of developing this condition increases, especially as you get older and have other health problems. Studies show that more than 50% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 are affected by this condition to some degree. However, the true number is likely much higher because many people don't talk about it due to embarrassment.

What are the main symptoms?

See if you have these symptoms too.

• Being able to get aroused before having sex only sometimes.
• Although it is possible to be aroused before sexual intercourse, that arousal is lost during intercourse.
• Not being able to breathe at all.
• Needing excessive stimulation to maintain vitality.

What are the causes of sexual dysfunction?

There can be many reasons for this. They can be physical or psychological. Sometimes both affect each other.

1. Physical illnesses and health conditions

A good blood supply to the penis is essential for erection, so anything that affects the circulatory system can cause this.

• Diabetes and related neurological disorders.
• High blood pressure (Hypertension).
• Increased blood cholesterol levels (Hyperlipidemia).
• Heart disease and vascular disease.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Thickening of blood vessel walls (atherosclerosis).
• Injuries to the penis or surrounding areas (e.g., pelvic fractures, spinal cord injuries).
• Prostate, colon, or bladder surgeries.
• Radiation therapy.
• Hormonal problems, especially low testosterone levels.

2. Some medications

This condition can also occur as a side effect of some medications you are taking.

• Some medications for depression (Antidepressants).
• Anxiolytics.
• Some medications for high blood pressure.
• Diuretics.
• Chemotherapy for cancer.
• Some allergy medications (Antihistamines).

3. Lifestyle and other materials

Some of the habits in our lifestyle also directly affect this.

• Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and reduce blood supply to the penis.
• Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect the nervous system and interfere with vitality.
• Drugs: The use of drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana is also a major cause of this.
• Lack of physical exercise and obesity.

4. Mental and emotional reasons

The body as well as the mind are very important for this.

• Stress.
• Depression.
• Anxiety.
• Fear of sex or performance anxiety.
• Low self-esteem.
• Relationship problems with your partner.

How does a doctor diagnose this?

When you go to see a doctor, he will ask you a few questions. Although these are somewhat personal questions, it is very important that you answer honestly to find the real cause.

• What medications do you take?
• Do you have conditions like stress and depression?
• How long have you had this problem?
• Do you feel refreshed when you wake up in the morning?
• Are you having problems in your relationship?

Then, a physical examination will be performed. If necessary, blood tests, urine tests, and a penile Doppler ultrasound may be ordered to determine the exact cause.

What are the treatments for this?

The best thing is, there are many effective treatments for this. The first thing to do is to find the underlying cause and treat it.

1. Lifestyle changes: This is the first and most important step.

• Exercise: Cardiovascular exercise, especially brisk walking, running, and swimming, can be beneficial for 45 minutes at least three days a week.
• Quitting smoking: For many people, this condition improves within a few months of quitting smoking.
• A healthy diet: It is very important to eat low cholesterol and more vegetables, fruits, and greens.
• Staying away from alcohol and drugs.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.

2. Psychological counseling: If psychological factors are involved, talking to a sex therapist or counselor can be very helpful.

3. Oral Medications:

• There are pills that increase blood flow to the penis. Examples include Sildenafil (Viagra®) and Tadalafil (Cialis®). These should only be taken under medical supervision .

4. Other treatment methods:

• Injections: There are types of injections that are injected directly into the penis.
• Vacuum constriction device: This is also called a penis pump.
• Hormone therapy (Testosterone replacement therapy): This treatment is given to those with low testosterone levels.
• Penile implant procedure: If no other treatment is successful, a device is surgically inserted into the penis as a last resort.

Are there times when you need to go to the hospital in an emergency?

Yes. If you are taking medication for impotence and experience a painful erection that lasts for two to four hours , it could be an emergency called priapism. If this happens, go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) without delay. If left untreated, permanent damage to the penis can occur.

How can you help your partner?

This is a problem that affects both of you. If your partner has this problem, here's how you can help.

• Talk openly: Give him the courage to talk about this. Remind him that you love him and that he is not alone.
• Encourage him/her: Encourage him/her to see a doctor. If necessary, you can even go with him/her.
• Be patient: This will take time to heal from treatment. Be patient and understanding during that time.
• Show love in other ways: The only way to be close is not just through sex. Hold hands, cuddle, kiss, spend time together.

Sexual dysfunction, Erectile dysfunction, Impotence, Penile impotence, Men's health, Sexual problems, ED treatment