There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to erectile dysfunction (ED). Most of them are because ED is a taboo subject in our society, which in turn does not allow for open and honest discussion. Men end up hiding their condition, trying to look for generic viagra UK or cheap sildenafil on their own. When presented with some facts about ED, a lot of men are often taken aback and surprised. Here we point out some of these facts you must know, so you can be better informed and get back to having a fulfilling sex life.

1 – Different Degrees

ED tends to come in different degrees. ED is not just the inability to get an erection, it is also about problems relating to maintaining an erection for long enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Based on the degree of ED, treatments are adjusted for best results.

2 – You are not alone

ED is not an uncommon issue among adult men, especially those aged 40 years and above.

The Massachusetts Male Aging Study reported a prevalence of ED at 52% in the demographic of older men. The study noted that ~40% of men are affected by the age of 40, and ~70% of men are affected by the age of 70.

3 – Dissatisfaction

Getting erect and maintaining an erection is also about how satisfied you are with your sex life. Many relationships start to deteriorate once boredom enters a relationship and sex becomes less frequent. Such a relationship dynamic carries over into the body’s physiological response to sex with the partner. It often takes the form of not getting hard enough and other signs of ED.

4 – Lifestyle choices matter

All too often, men who pursue unhealthy habits like excessive drinking or smoking end up experiencing ED. In contrast, healthier habits like regular exercise, adequate sleep and a balanced diet can do wonders for your overall health and decrease your chances of developing ED.

5 – Mental health

ED is as much of a mental issue as it is a physical one. Men suffering from ED also tend to have anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. The onset of ED can further exacerbate mental health issues. When men cannot perform in the bedroom, they can enter into a downward spiral of mental state. This is why talking about ED with your partner and physician can be a great help.

6 – Healthy Blood

Many ED patients also have some underlying health conditions that are compromising their blood flow. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure are just some of the few health conditions that can limit the blood flow in your body, thus making it hard to get erect. Addressing these underlying conditions can automatically improve sexual health.

7 – Hormones

Other than physical and mental health, your body’s hormones govern many bodily processes. One of these hormones is testosterone — a male sex hormone that controls your sexual health. Low testosterone levels can cause a lower-than-normal sex drive, which may lead to ED.

8 –  Therapy and counselling

Around 10 to 25 % of men suffering from ED have no known risk factors like an underlying health condition. It is referred to as non-organic ED. This type of ED may be caused by emotional, behavioural, or mental processes that keep one from having fulfilling sex. It may be wise for you to visit a therapist with your partner to discuss any issues you are having during intimacy.

9 –  Fractures

Although your penis is not a bone, it can still get fractured or broken. The penis is a muscle that is filled with blood vessels, and these blood vessels can break and lead to swelling, thus causing ED.

10 –  Medication

If you’re suffering from ED, there are several ways you can address your ED. Starting from the ones cited above, you can further explore options of medication with your physician. Once your doctor has made a diagnosis, you may be prescribed medications like; Viagra (Branded or Generic Sildenafil), Sildenafil (Generic Viagra), Tadalafil, Spedra, Generic Cialis, or Levitra. These are tried and tested medications that have helped many men over the years.