7 Myths About Erectile Dysfunction

1 - If a man has trouble getting an erection, does it mean he has erectile dysfunction?

No, it’s a myth. 

A number of situations can have a temporary impact on a man’s ability to have an erection: fatigue, too much alcohol, stress caused by a family or work situation, etc. 

Men and women alike may simply sometimes not feel like having sex.

2 - If a man can have an erection, does it mean he doesn’t have erectile dysfunction?

No, it’s a myth. 

Erectile dysfunction is not just the inability to have an erection. It is also the inability to maintain an erection in order to have fulfilling sexual relations.

3 - Is erectile dysfunction a normal sign of aging?

No, it’s a myth. 

Erectile dysfunction is a health problem that can occur at any age and that can have any number of causes. While ED is more prevalent among older men, it is not only due to aging.

4 - Is erectile dysfunction strictly a penis problem?

No, it’s a myth. 

In men, sexual arousal and erection are the result of a complex process that is influenced by emotions, hormones, the nervous system, and blood vessels. Any disease that affects one or more of these factors can have an impact on your ability to get an erection. 

Diabetes is one of the causes of erectile dysfunction. Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the penis that are required for an erection to occur. 

Erectile dysfunction can also result from a number of other diseases, including the following: 

• Heart disease (hypertension, atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, etc.)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Stroke
• Testosterone deficiency
• Depression
• Performance anxiety

An injury to the pelvic area, surgery, or treatment for prostate cancer are other possible causes of erectile dysfunction, which can be temporary or permanent. 

Some medications can have an impact on a man’s ability to have an erection (or on his libido). 

Lastly, certain lifestyle habits can also have an impact: 

• Smoking can damage the blood vessels in the penis that are required during an erection. 
• Excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce your ability to get or maintain an erection, as can the consumption of cannabis or illicit drugs.

5 - Do men with erectile dysfunction have no libido?

No, it’s a myth. 

Most men with erectile dysfunction still feel sexual desire. However, erectile dysfunction can create a vicious cycle when erectile problems cause performance anxiety, which in turn affects libido.

6 - Can wearing tight underwear cause erectile problems?

No, it’s a myth. 

While wearing underwear or pants that fit very snugly in the genital area does not cause erectile problems, it can create an overly hot environment for the testicles, and therefore for sperm, which can negatively affect fertility.

7 - Are medications in pill format the only option for treating erectile dysfunction?

No, it’s a myth. 

There are in fact a number of effective treatments for erectile dysfunction. Aside from pills that are taken prior to having sex, there are also injectable medications and implants. 

If you have been diagnosed with a testosterone deficiency, your doctor will likely recommend that you take a testosterone supplement. 

When medication is ineffective, poorly tolerated, or contraindicated, there are various mechanical options available, including a penile pump or prosthesis. 

Psychotherapy is an option when a psychological problem like performance anxiety is causing or contributing to erectile dysfunction.

Finding a solution means talking about the problem

Too many men refuse to talk about their sexual problems or concerns because they’re embarrassed or afraid they’ll be judged. And yet, failing to do so needlessly impacts their quality of life and/or their relationship.

If you think your erections or your libido are being affected by a medication you are taking, talk to your pharmacist. Pharmacies have private consultation areas where you can discuss your concerns in strict confidentiality. If need be, your pharmacist can discuss the issue with your doctor who may decide to modify your treatment.