Male Sexual Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, the term used to describe a varying range of erection problems, is generally defined as the inability of a man to reach an erection or sustain it sufficiently to meet either his or his partner's sexual needs. Throughout a lifetime, occasional instances of erectile problems is normal. Also, it is normal as a man ages, for him to notice changes in erectile function. It may take more stimulation or more time to achieve an erection, the erection may not be as rigid, or climax may not be as intense. However, when a man has a complete and persistent inability to achieve an erection (also called impotence), it should not be accepted as untreatable. If a man experiences an ongoing erection problem, at any age, it may be the first signal of an underlying medical condition and should not be ignored.

Incidence of Erectile Dysfunction

Since the term erectile dysfunction (ED) can cover various degrees of erection problems, statistics on the condition can vary. Erectile dysfunction can range from the inconsistent ability to reach an erection, the ability to reach only a brief erection, to the complete inability to reach an erection. Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, although it is more common in men as they get older. It is estimated that about 50% of all men between the ages of 40 and 70 will be affected by occasional episodes of inadequate erection. Chronic ED is estimated to affect about 5% of men in their 40's and about 15-25% of men by the age of 65. Erectile dysfunction, however, does not need to be an evitable part of getting older. If a man is experiencing any ongoing erection problems, he should visit a doctor for an exam and treatment.


Causes of Male Sexual Dysfunction

Erectile problems can be caused by a wide array of physical or psychological factors, or a combination of both. Anything that interferes with the physiological responses of the male body can cause erectile dysfunction. An erection requires several steps to occur in the body for a man to achieve and maintain an erection: sexual arousal, a nervous system response (messages sent to the vascular system), and a vascular system response (send more blood to the penile area). If something affects any of these factors or the delicate balance between them, erectile dysfunction can occur.

Most instances (approximately 80%) of erectile dysfunction cases are caused by physical factors. Physical factors include disease or some type of damage to the body which affects the nerve messages or blood flow and prevents the body from performing as it should. Approximately 50% of men with diabetes (high blood sugar) will experience erection difficulties. Other contributing conditions include, but not limited to, hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis (deposits in arteries can prevent blood flow to the pelvic area), male hypogonadism (low testosterone levels), kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, nerve damage, brain injury, cancer, surgery, radiation therapy, or prolonged bicycle riding. Some medications can cause erectile dysfunction, as well as the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, or other drugs.

Less frequently, psychological conditions can affect erectile performance. Some cases of erectile dysfunction are a result of non-physical causes, including stress, anxiety, fatigue, or depression. Relationship issues with your sexual partner, such as negative feelings, resentment, hostility, or lack of interest, can also contribute to erectile dysfunction.


Seeking Treatment

Erectile dysfunction not only interferes with a man's sex life, but it can also be very shattering to his self-image. Fortunately, most cases of erectile dysfunction are treatable and a man with erection problems should seek help. The subject of erectile dysfunction is not as taboo as it once was, and the men who are willing to discuss their concerns with their doctor are usually successfully treated for the problem. Much research has been done as to the causes and cures of erectile dysfunction, new options and better treatments are now available, and doctors are better informed and better able to help men with erection difficulties.

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