Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to get an erection or maintain an erection until the end of sex. While it sounds like a relatively simple problem, it often has an oversized effect on men who experience ED. Along with the physical symptoms come issues with confidence, anxiety, relationship fulfillment, and self-esteem. As you probably understand, the subject of ED is often a sensitive subject for most men. Some men may even begin to feel depressed.
As you probably understand, the subject of ED is often a sensitive subject for most men, making them hesitant to discuss the topic. This is despite the fact that around 30 million men in the United States experience erectile dysfunction, with an increasing percentage of those men under the age of 40.
Fortunately, these men are not consigned to a life with permanent ED. There are several ED treatments available, both with and without a prescription, that can help men improve sexual performance, build stronger relationships, reduce feelings of anxiety, and gain a sense of control over their bodies.
ED Treatments Improve Sexual Performance
Dissatisfaction with sexual performance is perhaps the most the most common result for men with ED treatment. Allowing some men to achieve and maintain an erection long enough to have satisfying sexual experiences can result in improvements to their confidence and self-esteem. One study from researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that men who used sildenafil (the generic name for Viagra) reported substantial improvements to their confidence, relationship satisfaction, and especially their self-esteem.
Build a Stronger Relationship
Maintaining a healthy sex life is an important aspect of nearly all intimate relationships, and the impact of ED on relationships can be devastating, impacting satisfaction, communication, emotional intimacy, and overall relationship health. Men who experience relationship issues caused by ED will also struggle with issues related to their confidence and self-worth.
Men who have treated their ED report stronger, more fulfilling relationships with more emotional intimacy, more trust, and better overall communication. Being in a healthy relationship is an important building block to restoring confidence for partnered men.
Reduce Anxiety and Stress
For men experiencing erectile dysfunction, particularly those living with long-term ED, the emotional toll can develop into feelings of stress and even anxiety. These men are constantly worried about whether they will be able to “perform” in the bedroom, the toll it may be taking on their relationship, and how their partner might be impacted. By treating ED, these men can remove a significant source of stress in their lives, relieving these feelings of anxiety and helping them feel more confident.
Anxiety and depression often cause ED and a lack of interest in sex in men. Building confidence and reducing anxiety can further improve their sexual performance, creating a positive feedback loop.
Gain a Sense of Control
Your confidence and self-esteem can take a big hit when your body doesn’t respond as you want or expect it to. This can be particularly true for men experiencing ED, as men are often told they should always be “good to go” and able to achieve an erection “on demand.” By treating ED, men regain that sense of control over their own bodies, allowing them to feel more confident in themselves.
Living with erectile dysfunction can be incredibly trying and emotionally burdensome for the men it impacts. The anxiety, shame, and frustration often lead to feelings of inadequacy and a lack of confidence. By treating their ED, men can improve their self-esteem through improved sexual performance, healthier relationships, reduced anxiety, and increasing a sense of control over themselves.
