For many men, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a source of embarrassment and shame. It’s not something you want to talk about with your partner or even your doctor – but both need to know. Why? Because ED can be an early warning sign that there may be serious underlying health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. The good news is that most cases of ED are treatable – so if you or your husband is worried about male reproductive health, don’t wait.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction And What Are The Symptoms?
The first step to knowing if your husband may be suffering from ED is learning what it means. Erectile dysfunction or ED can be defined as the inability to have an erection that lasts long enough or is hard sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance. This condition can range from mild to severe, and the man tense or anxious may be able to maintain an erection for a time, but the erection is not as rigid or sustained as it should be.
Why Does ED Happen?
An estimated five million men experience ED on a long-term basis—meaning they’ve had erectile problems for about six months or more. That’s likely due at least in part to aging; physical changes that typically accompany aging can include changes in sexual function. Many men experience ED for the first time as they enter their 40s, 50s, or 60s—but it’s possible to have problems at any age.
Some common signs of ED may include:
- Loss of libido
- Erections are not as hard or firm as before
- Erections that only happen when you’re sexually stimulated
- Weak erections
- Difficulty maintaining an erection during intercourse
What Can You Do To Help Him?
There are several things you can do to help your husband if he is suffering from ED. First, encourage your partner to see a healthcare professional. There are several options today, like PDE5 inhibitors and vacuum devices, that should be discussed with a medical professional.
Second, help him maintain a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular physical activity and eating nutritious meals and snacks can improve health and erectile function. Third, learn about ED. This step may help him more readily open up to you since it reduces the embarrassment of ED.
Last – but not least, be supportive of your husband. Talk with him about what’s going on with him, lend a hand when he needs it. If you’re feeling out of the loop, ask him to explain what’s going on with him. There are many options available today for men who need help with ED, and learning more about these options will help both of you.
How To Help Your Spouse Talk To Their Doctor About ED
Erectile dysfunction or ED is a common problem among men, but you should know that it’s treatable. If your husband isn’t comfortable talking about this issue with you, encourage him to discuss it with his doctor. Men who avoid talking about their problems often do so because of fear, shame, or embarrassment.
The first step towards getting help for ED is a medical diagnosis, and only a medical professional can determine if a health condition causes ED. If your husband has been reluctant to see a doctor, encourage him to talk with his doctor about ED and how it may be impacting his life.
A diagnosis of ED usually involves some tests for everyday health problems that can cause ED, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. If chronic medical issues are ruled out, the cause of ED is usually psychological. Psychological impotence is an inability to have or sustain an erection that can last long enough for sexual intercourse. Psychological causes of impotence include:
- Depression and other mental health disorders
- Stress
- Anxiety
Your support can make a big difference in helping your husband overcome the initial fear or discomfort that might stand in the way of his seeking help.
Why Can’t Men Just Use A Supplement?
Some men may be tempted to try over-the-counter supplements instead of working with a doctor, but this is not a good idea for several reasons. Supplements can interact with prescription medications and may contain ingredients that are not listed on the label.
Supplements can also cause dangerous side effects when combined with certain medications or health conditions. It is essential to talk with a doctor who can help determine the treatment approach that will work best for your spouse.
After your spouse gets an erectile dysfunction diagnosis, he can start treatment and get back on the road to sexual happiness.
