Approximately 33% of men under 40 have experienced erectile dysfunction, or ED, at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, this increases with age.
What is erectile dysfunction? This term refers to problems with getting or maintaining an erection and is something many men have experienced.
Luckily, you don’t need to live with ED, as there are plenty of ways to manage the issue. To find out more, keep reading to find seven effective erectile dysfunction treatment options.
1. First, Always Talk to Your Doctor
If you’re concerned about ED, the first step is always to speak to your doctor. It’s normal to feel nervous talking about a sensitive subject like this one but rest assured your doctor will handle your issues with respect and care.
A medical checkup is always the best first step, as your doctor can tell you more about what causes erectile dysfunction and which treatments might work best for you. It’s also a good opportunity to rule out any more serious health conditions linked to ED, like prostate cancer, heart disease, or diabetes.
A doctor is also the only way to get access to prescription medication for ED.
2. Penile Pumps
A common treatment option for ED is penile pumps. These are devices that you can purchase online or from an adult store.
They work using suction, with a tube you place over the penis and hold in place with suction. With the pump, you pump air into the device, which increases blood flow to the penis.
As the penis fills with blood, it becomes erect. Pumps are easy to use and affordable, so this is a great treatment for men with occasional or minor ED. However, it might not work in more serious cases.
You can find out here more about how to use penis pumps properly. However, a doctor or nurse who specializes in ED can also provide instructions if you’re unsure.
3. Penile Implants
In more extreme cases of ED, penile implants are the best option. These are often used in cases where ED is caused by a physical problem, such as loss of nerves during surgery for prostate cancer.
This is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a thin tube into the shaft of the penis. You can pump fluid from the implant’s reservoir into the tube, which will make the penis hard. After sex, the penis won’t become flaccid until you deflate.
For some men, this is the only way to achieve an erection. However, it’s considered a last resort and is only really used if other treatments have failed, as it’s an expensive surgical procedure.
4. Counselling
For some men, erectile dysfunction is psychological, rather than physical. This means their bodies are capable of achieving erections, but something mentally or emotionally is holding them back.
This can be anything from nervousness, anxiety, or worry that their sexual partner isn’t happy with how they look. In these cases, it can help to have an honest conversation with your partner, talking about your feelings and coming up with solutions together.
If you’re really not coping with your emotions and it’s impacted your ED, another great option is to seek out therapy. There are plenty of counselors who specialize in mental health as it relates to ED and can help you work through the issue.
5. Oral Medication
Medication is another popular way to help. Pills like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are taken orally and can help you achieve an erection.
They generally work by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping you have an erection when you’re feeling aroused. While often very effective, let your doctor know if you experience any side effects while taking the medication.
There are also injectable medications available, which need to be injected into the penis with a fine needle before you want to achieve an erection. Both oral and injectable medications can only be obtained from a medical professional.
6. Supplements
Supplements don’t work for everyone, but some men find that taking them can make it easier to have erections. Natural remedies like ginkgo, ginseng, and pomegranate are commonly found in herbal supplements for ED.
You can find herbal remedies at your local pharmacy or health food store. It’s always good to talk to your doctor first though, so make sure your current medication for other health conditions won’t interfere with the supplements.
7. Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes, you can improve your ED by making some lifestyle changes. Obesity can cause erectile problems, so you might find that adopting a healthier diet and exercising more can help.
Exercising is particularly great, as it helps increase blood flow through the body by strengthening your heart—this can help you achieve stronger erections.
Cigarette smoking and frequent use of alcohol are also best avoided since they can harm your health—and your erections.
Use This Guide to Better Understand Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
If you or a loved one are struggling in the bedroom, use this erectile dysfunction treatment guide to learn more about possible solutions. It’s normal to feel upset, worried, or scared if you can no longer get erections like you used to, but know that there are plenty of very effective treatment options available.
With the guidance of a doctor, you’re sure to get your prowess in the bedroom back in no time! Get started by making an appointment with your doctor or visit your local pharmacy to find out more.
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