Top Myths About Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction is the inability to maintain or sustain an erection suitable for penetration. Although it affects a lot of men, many men are still afraid to talk openly about the condition, which affects several million men in the UK alone. As a result, there are a number of myths and misconceptions surrounding the issue. Below are six of the most common myths surrounding erectile dysfunction.

Myth: Erectile Dysfunction Only Affects Older Men

Fact: If you think that you’re too young to experience erectile dysfunction, you would be wrong. Whilst it is true that the chance of suffering from erection problems increases as you age, the truth is it can affect adult males of any age.

                                                    Source: www.healthexpress.co.uk

Though it is more common in older men, findings from a study found that erectile dysfunction affected 26% of men under 40. Nearly 50% of these men suffered from severe ED. Experts cite lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol as contributing factors. Certain medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can all cause ED.

Myth: Erectile Dysfunction Means You’ve Fallen Out Of Love With Your Partner

Fact: Erections typically happen when a man is sexually aroused, which makes some people believe that it is a sign that a man is not aroused or attracted to his partner. Wrong. ED does not have anything to do with a man’s attraction to his partner. It is more probable that his erectile dysfunction is linked to stress or anxiety.

Myth: Tight Underwear Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Fact: Wearing tight underwear has long been considered a leading cause of erectile dysfunction. This is because it can increase the temperature of the testicles and genital area, which some believe can affect a man’s sperm count. This theory, however, has been challenged in a study by urology specialists, at the State University of New York, which showed that tight underwear would be an unlikely factor in infertility in a man.

Myth: Too Much Masturbating Can Result In Erectile Dysfunction

Fact: Perhaps one of the most well known myths linked to ED is that excessive masturbating causes erectile dysfunction. It is true that excessive masturbation can have some effect on your sexual performance with your partner. This is because you may become used to your own touch rather than that of somebody else. It therefore, may affect a man’s ability to orgasm. However, it does not, according to Susan Kellogg Spadt, PhD, director of sexual medicine at the Pelvic and Sexual Health Institute, prevent a man from achieving an erection. 

Myth: Erectile Dysfunction Is A Psychological, Not Physical, Condition

Fact: Although it is correct that psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression over sexual performance can impact a man’s ability to have an erection that certainly doesn’t mean that there aren’t physical factors at play either. ED can occur as a result of physical factors such as fatigue, some medications, and health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
 

                                                            Source: www.manipalankur.com

Myth: My Lifestyle Won’t Affect My Sexual Performance

Fact: It is well known that a healthy lifestyle will have a positive impact on your quality of life. However, what many men do not know is that their lifestyle can also have a significant impact on their sex life. Smoking, drug use, and excessive alcohol are all major factors of ED. Scientific studies have highlighted excessive drinking as a major cause of temporary and long-term impotence. This is evident from one study, which showed that nearly 70% of men, who were heavy drinkers, suffered sexual dysfunction problems, including erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

Myth: There’s Only One Type Of Treatment For Erectile Dysfunction

Fact: Having ED doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to undergo invasive surgery.  There are a number of different treatment options for erectile dysfunction. Though surgery may be the last option, lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quit smoking and reducing alcohol intake is firstly recommended. Speaking to a medical professional about your sexual dysfunction will also go a long way into finding the root cause of the problem, whether it is physical or psychological.  A specialist may also recommend prescription medications for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.