Erectile Dysfunction

With erectile dysfunction (ED), a male can’t get or keep an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse. Sometimes, ED is called impotence. Impotence can be ED, but can also mean a lack of sexual desire and problems with orgasm.

Signs & Symptoms

• Not being able to get an erection at all
• An erection is too brief, weak, or painful for satisfying sex.
• An erection loses strength with penetration.

Causes

Blood vessel diseases, diabetes, and other physical problems are the usual cause of ED. Other causes are smoking and a side effect of some medicines, such as depression and hypertension medications. Some cases are due to emotional factors, such as stress and fear of not being able to perform.

Treatment

• Treatment for conditions that cause ED
• Medication
• Counseling
• A vacuum erection device
• Self-injection therapy or a penile implant

Self-Care / Prevention

• Take medicine for ED as prescribed.
• Check with your doctor before you take herbs, etc. sold for ED.
• If you have diabetes, follow your treatment plan.
• If you smoke, quit.
• Avoid or limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day.
• Relax. Manage stress. Get plenty of rest.
• Get regular physical activity. Lose weight if you have excess pounds.
• Share your fears, needs, etc. with your partner. Work through relationship issues.
• Don’t focus just on performance. Find pleasure when you hug, kiss, and caress your partner.