Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to the inability of a man to get or hold an erection. Because it affects a partner’s sexual performance, ED impacts a couple as a whole. If you have this condition, stress on your sex life can affect other aspects of your relationship. This makes it important to discuss your condition with your partner. Also, you should schedule a consultation with an Erectile Dysfunction Doctor no matter how embarrassing you may think this prospect is.
When you avoid talking about your ED with your partner, you can be distant from him or her. As a result, you may feel like your partner is no longer interested in you or not attracted to you. However, this is rarely the issue.
Common Causes of ED
ED can develop because of a health condition such as diabetes or heart disease. Sometimes, it can occur as a side effect of a treatment for certain conditions like prostate cancer. Also, some men suffer from this condition after they fail to perform optimally during a sexual encounter. This can result in anxiety when trying to reach and maintain erections. No matter the cause of your ED, you must seek care from a medical expert.
Talking About ED With Your Partner
While it can be uncomfortable to initiate a conversation about ED with your partner, it is an important step to finding a solution. Consider when and where you wish to discuss this with your partner. Ensure you can get some privacy in this place. Avoid starting the conversation during or after sexual intimacy to avoid frustrations. Reassure your partner that you can get cured of ED and that you will work together to overcome it.
Treatment for ED
When getting treatment for ED, attend the appointments with your doctor together. This way, you and your partner are well-informed on the available treatment options. These options include the following:
- Oral medications. These include vardenafil, sildenafil, or tadalafil. These medications work in around 60% of men with ED.
- Injection therapy. During this therapy, medicine is directly injected into a side of your penis using a very small needle whenever you wish to get an erection. This treatment option satisfies many men.
- Vacuum pump. This treatment involves pumping a vacuum pump to pull blood into your penis. Then, you can get an erection by placing a special ring over the base of your penis.
- Penile implants. These implants are a permanent solution for ED and can last up to fifteen years.
