Considering that 30 million men experience erectile dysfunction, one would imagine that there is a lot of information out there regarding the condition. While this is true, there are a lot of persistent myths surrounding ED as well. Unfortunately, because these myths are so widely believed and accepted, it can make treatment and reversal of ED more challenging.

Whether you have ED or know someone who does, it is crucial to bust these myths as soon as possible. Here are five misunderstandings and the reality behind them.

1. Myth: ED is a Natural Side-Effect of Aging

Although ED does tend to affect older men, a recent study showed that roughly 26 percent of men under 40 could also experience ED. Men of all ages can have various underlying causes, such as:

• Obesity – Not only does being overweight put a lot of stress on one’s overall health, but it can restrict blood flow, which can affect one’s ability to get and maintain an erection.
• Drug Use – Using drugs and alcohol can impact a man’s circulation, and the condition can worsen over time. Smoking, in particular, can have a lasting effect.
• Hormone Imbalance – Erections are partially influenced by hormones in the body, so if a man is having issues with them, it could lead to erectile dysfunction.
• Medications – Some prescriptions can have ED as a side effect. For example, many heart medicines can reduce or impact blood flow to the penis.

Reality: Men of All Ages Can Experience ED for Various Reasons

2. Myth: Only Medication Can Treat or Cure ED

If you watch television regularly, you likely see advertisements for ED medicines like Viagra or Levitra. These medications work by relaxing your muscles and making it easier for blood to move through your system. Rather than “creating” an erection, they simply allow you to get one more comfortably and quickly.

Although medicine can enable erections in most men, they only work around 70 percent of the time. Even if a particular medicine does work, it does not treat the underlying cause. For example, if an individual is obese, Viagra won’t alleviate the health problems related to that. In that instance, losing weight and getting more exercise may allow him to achieve an erection without medicine.

Reality: There are Many Causes for ED and Methods of Reversal

3. Myth: ED is Purely a Physical Problem

In many cases, the underlying issue is a physical one. However, there are plenty of instances where psychological problems are the cause preventing an erection. Some examples can include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Low Self-Esteem
• Relationship Conflicts
• Stress

All of these psychological problems can actually cause some men to experience certain types sexual dysfunction. Feelings of not being enough, unworthiness, or inadequacy are known psychological factors that can especially contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED).

Other serious mental health problems can also affect a man’s ability to get and maintain an erection, so addressing them can help reverse ED.

Another option is to go to counseling or couple’s therapy to discuss issues like low self-esteem or poor body image. In those cases, talking about the problem can relieve pressure and anxiety surrounding erectile dysfunction, which may minimize or cure the condition.

Reality: Underlying Psychological Issues Can cause ED

4. Myth: Testosterone Cures ED

Because erectile dysfunction affects men, many of them believe that testosterone supplements will help them get over the problem. However, the fact is that only those with low hormone levels will benefit from these supplements.

Overall, it is far better to identify the source of the problem. If testosterone isn’t causing ED, then taking more of it won’t alleviate it. Instead, individuals should consult their doctor to see what is really going on beneath the surface.

Reality: Testosterone Doesn’t Work For Everyone

5. Myth: ED is a Self-Contained Problem

Finally, many men believe that erectile dysfunction is something that only affects the penis. However, as we’ve shown already, that is rarely the case. Unless an individual has primary ED, which means that he has never been able to get an erection, the dysfunction is likely a symptom of another root cause. Beyond obesity, drug use, and psychological problems, some potential reasons for ED can include:

• Heart Disease
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• High Cholesterol
• Alcoholism
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• And More

Another point to consider is that ED doesn’t just affect the individual. Sexual partners can be impacted as well, which is why couple’s therapy can help. In many cases, when a man experiences ED, he is not open and honest about the condition, causing confusion and worry in others. Unfortunately, trying to solve the problem individually doesn’t always work, which means that it can worsen over time, particularly if it continues to happen.

Overall, if one is experiencing ED regularly, it is a sign of something larger going on.

Reality: ED Can Indicate Other Health and Psychological Issues

Contact Us Today If you are experiencing ED, it is crucial to know that you are not alone. There are many treatment options available, from medications to lifestyle changes. At MenDown, we are committed to helping our customers get through this condition. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.