Psychological Consequences of Erectile Dysfunction
Jun 03, 2024 ● By Jerry Garcia, PA-C, and Raymond Wohl, BA, MA
Jerry Garcia, PA-C, medical director and Raymond Wohl, business manager. Photo courtesy of Chicago Male Clinic.
The psychological impact of erectile dysfunction (ED) on men and their partners can be rather significant. Too often, medications can appear to be a simple solution, yet a holistic approach offers much better outcomes.
While ED is one of the most common male sexual health disorders, most men are embarrassed or feel ashamed and don’t seek help.
An article titled “Psychological Consequences of Erectile Dysfunction,” published in the November/December 2021 edition of Trends, states, “The Sexual Advice Association estimates that half of men aged between 40 and 79 years will have experienced ED to some degree” and that “ED can have a devastating psychological impact on both the man and his partner.”
The authors note that psychological factors “can lead to men withdrawing intimacy at a time when the relationship is often at its most vulnerable and leave the partner feeling unwanted and unloved.”
The article outlines a variety of psychotherapeutic treatments, including psychosexual therapy, which involves “revising the patient’s (and their partner’s) perspective and expectation around sex.” The prescribed treatment plan redefines preconceived ideas of what constitutes “normal sex” and instead emphasizes and encourages the other key pillars of a relationship.
The article notes the traditional approach to treating ED include pharmaceuticals, vacuum erection devices, injections and penile surgical implants. The authors acknowledge that 35 percent of men fail to respond to ED pills.
More natural and holistic approaches to men’s sexual health have longer lasting results and don’t have side effects.
The article states that “lifestyle advice should be given to everyone.” This includes maintaining a healthy weight, stopping/reducing smoking and alcohol, and more regular exercise.
In conclusion the authors say, “More open and frank discussions about sexual health, in relationships and in society as a whole, are required to lessen the stigma that pervades ED.”
Chicago Male Clinic is an integrated healing center focused on treating the whole person and specializes in men’s sexual health. The clinic provides a nonpharmaceutical, noninvasive approach for men’s sexual health.
Jerry Garcia is the medical director and Raymond Wohl is the business manager and patient care coordinator of Chicago Male Clinic, located at 4801 W. Peterson Ave. Ste., 506, Chicago. For more information or to make an appointment, call 773-414-9900 or visit ChicagoMaleClinic.com.
