When men consult me about erectile dysfunction, the first thing I want to know about is their physical health, especially if they are older. Erectile dysfunction is more than the occasional difficulty getting it up. It’s also not a physical issue if you have no problems with erections during masturbation and only experience ED with a partner (check out my blog on performance anxiety in this case). If your plumbing isn’t working optimally, it’s time to look at your lifestyle and your overall health. Research has shown that ED can be an early warning sign for cardiac issues/events.
There are two things you do with your penis: orgasm and urinate. Trouble with urination can be a sign of prostate issues and should be discussed with your physician. Problems with ejaculation are usually linked to difficulties getting or keeping an erection which could alert you to other issues going on in your body. Some of the more common health issues that affect your penis include Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, elevated cholesterol, low testosterone, plus lifestyle issues such as smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep issues, stress, and other mental health problems (like depression, for example).
Let’s take a look at some of your lifestyle choices that can really have an impact on your erectile abilities.
Alcohol consumption: For many of us, alcohol is a substance that leads to less inhibition and therefore better sex, because we are relaxed, less in our heads, and more into our bodies. However, alcohol is a depressant so it can actually have an adverse reaction on your penis. A little alcohol once in a while is not an issue (research shows that 2 or fewer drinks per day do not seem to impact erections). However, excessive consumption over time will affect your erections physically. There are also psychological and relational consequences due to overconsumption to consider (which also impacts sexuality).
Tobacco smoking: Statistics tell us that men who smoke cigarettes have less sex and less enjoyment of sex when compared to men who don’t, most likely because tobacco contributes to heart disease, stroke, narrowing of blood vessels, etc. which can hinder your erections.
Smoking weed and other drugs: Long-term use of drugs like cocaine, ecstasy, etc. has also been shown to impact erectile functioning.
Difficulty with sleep: Men have erections in their sleep (during the REM phase) which helps keep the penis healthy by pumping blood regularly. Therefore, not getting enough sleep will hinder this necessary
Stress: Stress can affect us in so many ways. It can lower our libido, make us anxious, and just not in the mood. Plus, the hormones released in times of stress can hamper the ability to get an erection.
Other mental health issues: How feel about ourselves affects how we feel sexually. If your confidence is low, if you suffer from depression or anxiety or if you have fears of sexual failure, this can contribute to erectile problems.
Bottom line: Healthy living equals a healthy penis! So quit smoking, drink alcohol in moderation, eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight, stay active, seek therapy if you need help managing your stress, anxiety, or depression, avoid drugs, and get enough sleep. I’m sure I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know, however, don’t wait until the damage to your penis is done to decide on living a healthy lifestyle. It will help not only your penis, but your general psychological well-being and your relationships as well.
This post in no way replaces the advice of a medical doctor. If you experience erectile dysfunction, please see your doctor for a full medical check-up.