Erectile dysfunction: Are you having a trouble getting and maintaining an erection?

In an Australian study measuring self-reported erectile dysfunction in 108,477 men aged 45 years or older, the overall prevalence of erectile dysfunction was 61% (25% with mild erectile dysfunction; 19% with moderate erectile dysfunction; 17% with complete erectile dysfunction).

Interestingly, more than 20% of healthy men aged 60–65 years with no risk factors had moderate or complete erectile dysfunction. Therefore, erectile dysfunction is fairly common although not many openly talk about it or seek help.

A growing body of literature has identified erectile dysfunction as being associated with diseases of heart and blood vessels which is often overlooked. In cases of poor blood supply to the penis, it is difficult to get and maintain an erection.Thus ,erectile dysfunction maybe the first tell-tale sign of heart disease and therefore it is very important to seek help from your doctor.

What are the causes?

• Heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and other conditions that affect blood flow to the penis

• Low testosterone, thyroid problems, growth hormone disorders, and other hormonal imbalances

• Prostate disease, prostate cancer, Peyronie’s disease, and other problems with the male reproductive system

• Medications, alcohol, smoking, substance abuse, and other factors that can interfere with nerve signals or blood vessels

• Stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, performance anxiety, and other psychological factors

As the causes of erectile dysfunction are widely varied, a holistic approach is required to effectively manage it. The team includes you and your partner, doctor/urologist, sexologist, psychologist and physiotherapist.

Pelvic floor rehabilitation has been found to be helpful in managing erectile dysfunction. This is because the muscles of the pelvic floor, which are in close proximity to the penis, help in shunting blood to the penis. In some cases, your pelvic floor muscles could be tight and weak contributing to the erectile dysfunction. Therefore you would benefit from an assessment of your pelvic floor. This can be done by thorough history taking and using real time ultrasound or by rectal examination to determine the state of your pelvic floor muscles.

If you are suffering from erectile dysfunction, do not shy away. Help is a phone call away. Book in for a comprehensive assessment and start your journey towards a happy , healthy sex life.