If you are experiencing difficulties getting or maintaining an erection, it is important to address the issue before it begins affecting your confidence and relationships. There are several steps you can take to ensure you get an erection when you need one.
These medications amplify that signal, allowing normal penile function in some people. Oral erectile dysfunction medications are not aphrodisiacs, will not cause excitement and are not needed in people who get normal erections. Trouble getting an erection and difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual activities are the most common symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Book an online doctor’s appointment on Sesame today to discuss your sexual health with a licensed healthcare provider.
If you have a foreskin, pull it back gently and clean it to avoid a smegma build-up. Circumcised penises are more likely to get chafed or irritated, so use loose-fitting, cotton underwear always. Whether you’re circumcised or not, it’s important to wash regularly. If you don’t want to use a condom, ensure that both you and your partners don’t have any STIs. For example, if you have HIV, your partner can take Truvada (pre-exposure prophylaxis, also known as PrEP) to help prevent them from contracting it.
But there are many treatment options for this common condition. To diagnose ED, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They’ll do a complete physical exam to look for signs like poor circulation or nerve trouble. They’ll also check for problems in your genital area that could cause trouble with erections. Research suggests that avid bikers are more likely to get ED than other athletes.
Vacuum devices for ED, also called pumps, offer an alternative to medication. You’ll place your penis inside a cylinder and use a pump to draw the air out. This creates a partial vacuum around your penis, which causes it to fill with blood and leads to an erection. You’ll wear an elastic band around the base of your penis to keep the erection while you have sex.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis, which can help with erections.
Surgery, including treatments for prostate cancer, bladder cancer, or BPH, can sometimes damage nerves and blood vessels near your penis. If the nerve damage is permanent, you’ll need treatment to get an erection. But sometimes surgery causes temporary ED that gets better on its own after 6 to 18 months.
Eat a balanced diet: Consuming foods that are good for your heart can also benefit your sexual health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet.
Avoid smoking and excessive drinking: Both smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can impair your ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
Stress Management
Practice relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Try techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage stress levels.
Communicate with your partner: Open and honest communication with your partner can help alleviate performance pressure and improve your relationship, which can lead to better sexual experiences.
Medical Consultation
Consult a healthcare provider: If you continue to have difficulty getting an erection, it may be beneficial to speak with a doctor. They can help determine if there are underlying medical conditions contributing to the issue and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Consider medications: In some cases, medications like Viagra or Cialis may be prescribed to help with erectile dysfunction. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can age affect erectile function? Yes, as men age, they may experience changes in their sexual function, including difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Are there lifestyle changes that can help with erectile dysfunction? Yes, making healthy lifestyle choices such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can all contribute to improved erectile function.
