Several people link masturbation with erectile dysfunction (ED). Erectile dysfunction happens when a man cannot get or keep an erection. On contrary to this common belief, the scientific studies show that masturbation has no relation with a man suffering from erectile dysfunction. So, this notion is a myth.
Masturbation or stimulation of one’s genitals helps people become familiar with their bodies & explore the way they want to be touched. Masturbation does not straightaway cause erectile dysfunction in men.
Symptoms of ED
The symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:
- Erections too soft for sex
- Inability to get an erection
- Erections that don’t last enough for intercourse
If you can’t get or keep a rigid enough erection, you may develop erectile dysfunction.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Masturbation has no relation with a man suffering from erectile dysfunction. The unhealthy lifestyle & habits are the underlying reasons for erectile dysfunction in men.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Lifestyle choices play a major role in the ED. Smoking cigarettes, heavy drinking, use of drugs can damage the blood vessels and reduce the blood flow to your penis. This not only affects your sexual wellbeing but also physical health.
Abnormal Blood Pressure
Certain medications of blood pressure drugs might also cause erectile dysfunction. Talk to your doctor if you think the drug might be causing erectile dysfunction before stopping the usage.
Diabetes & High-Cholesterol
Chronic diseases like diabetes can cause ED. Studies show that men with diabetes are more likely to develop ED. Any condition which affects the blood flow through your body like cardiovascular disease or kidney disease leads to ED. But blood glucose control can help lower the risk.
Insomnia
Lack of sleep can also reduce testosterone levels. This results in poor erections & reduces sexual interest. Sleep-deprived men often feel stressed out & fatigued which adds to sexual problems.
Obesity
Being overweight is another cause of erectile dysfunction. A little or no exercise increases your odds for ED. Studies show that obesity lowers testosterone levels in men. However, exercising regularly can help lower the risk of ED.
Performance anxiety
Many men have performance anxiety which can shorten the process that leads to ED. These factors can make the problem worse if erectile dysfunction is associated with a physical problem.
Stress & Depression
The older you get there might physical reason to ED. But experts say that psychological problems can equally cause ED. Stress in personal or professional life, depression, low self-esteem can cause erectile dysfunction.
Preventing ED
Leading a healthy lifestyle can contribute to physical as well as sexual health. Including healthy habits can help prevent ED like:
- Give up on smoking
- Shed the extra weight
- Exercise everyday
- Follow a healthy diet
- Avoid using illegal drugs
If you suspect certain medications are causing erectile dysfunction, talk to your doctor on adjusting the dosage.
Treating ED
Lab tests can help to diagnose the ED. The treatment for ED depends on the underlying cause of your ED. The lack of blood flow or nerve trouble can cause ED. Treatment for ED include:
Medications
Medications like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, staxyn are among the most common pills for the treatment of ED. They help in improving the blood flow to the penis during arousal. Oral pills have some side-effects too including stomach ache or headache. They are taken 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. All these medications require approval from your doctor first.
Vacuum devices
Vacuum devices or pumps are an alternative to medication. A pump uses a vacuum tube to suck the air out from around the penis. This causes erection by allowing blood to enter the penis. You will not wear an elastic band around the base of your penis to keep the erection.
Surgery & implants
If a blocked artery causes ED, surgery can help restore the blood flow. The blood vessel surgery can help improve the blood flow. This procedure works for men under 30.
However, a long-term ED can be treated by penile implant surgery. The implant is made of rods that inflatable & flexible. The implant lets you adjust the position of your penis & keep it firm after getting an erection.
Psychotherapy & Supplements
A therapist can help you & your partner techniques to reduce performance anxiety & improved intimacy. It also helps couples to adjust the use of implants & vacuum devices.
Many supplements guarantee to cure ED but talk with your doctor before trying the supplements. The ingredients may induce other health conditions.
Depending on how severe your ED is, talk to your doctor regarding the treatment whether it is right for you. Your doctor might refer you to a therapist or counselor if something psychological or emotional is causing you ED.
It makes you aware of the underlying health issues or mental issues in your personal life which might be causing ED.
