Erectile Dysfunction

Most men will experience difficulty getting an erection occasionally in their lives (if they are tired, stressed, distracted or have drunk too much alcohol). Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is only a problem when it is persistent or recurring. ED can occur at any age but becomes more common as you get older.  

ED can be caused by physical problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure and vascular disease (narrowing of the blood vessels) and can be an "early warning" sign of heart disease. ED can also be caused by diseases that affect the nerves and hormonal problems. Psychological issues such as stress, depression or anxiety also contribute to the problem. However, in most cases it's a combination of both physical and psychological factors.

Medications such as Viagra are effective in helping patients with ED to gain and maintain an erection. However, ED medication does not address the more serious underlying health conditions that may be the root of the problem and you must see your doctor to test for and treat the underlying cause.

Lifestyle changes could have a severe impact on your ability to maintain an erection. Smoking, being overweight, having a high blood pressure, high cholesterol level or diabetes can all result in a narrowing of the blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis. Lifestyle changes such as exercising, losing weight, stopping smoking, eating a healthy diet, reducing alcohol consumption and managing stress can have a large impact on sexual performance.

Psychological therapy can help deal with psychological issues that may be causing erectile dysfunction. Psychological trauma or ED itself can cause stress and anxiety. Talking therapies, such as relationship and psychosexual counselling can help as an alternative to Viagra or other drugs.

Natural therapies are favoured by some men who claim that it treats erectile dysfunction. These therapies include acupuncture and homeopathy, although there is little scientific evidence to support these methods.

Penis or vacuum pumps can help treat ED. You place your penis in the tube-device, pump out the air from the container and the vacuum causes blood to be drawn into the penis, making it erect. You then place a rubber ring around the base of your penis to keep the blood in place and remove the container, allowing you to maintain an erection for up to 30 minutes (you must remove the rubber ring after a maximum of 30 minutes). Most men are able to have sex after using the vacuum pump, regardless of the root cause.