Erectile dysfunction
Introduction
Erectile dysfunction affects many men at different ages. Whether occasional or persistent, they can have a significant impact on intimate life and self-confidence.
⚠️ Erectile dysfunction is not inevitable. It shouldn’t be seen as shame or weakness, but as a signal that’s important to listen to.
💡 Good news: solutions do exist! With the right medical treatment, you can regain quality erections and a fulfilling sex life.
What is erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is defined as a persistent or repeated inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfying sexual intercourse.
📌 A few figures:
✅ Around 1 in 3 men experience erectile dysfunction after the age of 40.
✅ Nearly 50% of men over 50 are affected, with prevalence increasing with age.
✅ Over 80% of cases are linked to identifiable medical causes and can be effectively treated.
What are the symptoms?
- Difficulty achieving an erection despite adequate sexual stimulation.
- Loss of rigidity during intercourse, preventing sufficient penetration or support.
- Reduced frequency of morning erections (an indicator of erectile health).
- Decreased quality of erections (less firm than before).
📌 Occasional or recurrent?
It’s normal to have isolated episodes of erectile dysfunction, particularly when stressed or tired.
If these problems become frequent or last longer than 3 months, it’s advisable to consult a specialist.
What causes erectile dysfunction?
1️⃣ Organic (physical) causes
In 80% of cases, erectile dysfunction is linked to an underlying medical problem:
- Cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol)
- Diabetes (alters the blood vessels and nerves responsible for erection)
- Hormonal disorders (low testosterone, hyperprolactinemia)
- Overweight and obesity
- Tobacco, alcohol, drugs (damage nerves and blood vessels)
- Side effects of certain drugs (antidepressants, beta-blockers...)
2️⃣ Psychological causes
- Stress and anxiety (personal, professional or related to sexual performance)
- Depression (weakens desire and affects erection mechanisms)
- Emotional blocks or traumas (linked to past experiences)
3️⃣ Aggravating lifestyle factors
- Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
- Unbalanced diet (promoting hypertension and diabetes)
- Insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality
📌 There are often many causes: a complete check-up helps us to better understand the origin of the problem and to adopt a personalized approach.
Impact of erectile dysfunction on intimate and psychological life
Erectile dysfunction not only affects the body, it also has an impact on self-esteem and life as a couple.
- Pre-sex anxiety and fear of failure
- Avoidance of sexual relations for fear of a new difficulty
- Decreased desire and frustration for the partner
- Loss of self-confidence and low morale
💡 Breaking the taboo and consulting a specialist can help you rediscover your sexuality and boost your confidence.
What solutions exist?
1️⃣ Drug treatments (oral and injectable)
- PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Spedra): improve blood flow to the penis.
- Intra-cavernosal injections: effective if tablets don't work.
- Hormonal treatment: in case of insufficient testosterone.
📌 Effective in most cases, but requires medical follow-up.
2️⃣ Non-drug therapies
- Shock waves (LISWT): stimulates vascular regeneration and improves erection naturally.
- Psychotherapy & Sexotherapy: useful in cases of anxiety, stress or psychological blockage.
- Lifestyle modifications: sport, balanced diet, stress management and smoking cessation.
📌 Combined approaches often produce better results.
3️⃣ Surgical solutions (Severe and treatment-resistant cases)
- Penile implants: the definitive option for restoring a functional erection.
- Vascular surgery: to correct certain circulatory disorders of the penis.
📌 Surgical solutions are considered as a last resort.
Why consult a specialist?
Early diagnosis allows :
- Identify the exact cause of the disorder and adapt the treatment.
- Avoid aggravation of symptoms and regain a satisfactory erection.
- Prevent other health problems (erectile dysfunction can be a warning sign of cardiovascular disease).
📌 Don’t wait for the situation to get worse! The earlier you take action, the better your chances of regaining a normal sex life.
Do you suffer from erectile dysfunction?
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Do you suffer from erectile dysfunction?
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