Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects over 30 million men in the US, but its impact extends beyond just the individuals who experience it. Partners of men with ED often find themselves confused and hurt, wondering why their significant other can’t maintain an erection. It’s important to understand that ED is not a reflection of their attractiveness or desirability.
Key Takeaways
Dealing with ED in a New Relationship
If your partner has erectile dysfunction, it can affect your intimacy both inside and outside the bedroom. However, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not your fault. Stephen Snyder, a New York City sex therapist, emphasizes that attraction is rarely the cause of ED. Factors such as medication use, psychological issues, relationship stress, and medical conditions are more common culprits.
Understanding the Causes
Erectile dysfunction can be categorized into five main causes, as explained by Katherine Roker, a urologist at Yale University:
Hormonal reasons
Low testosterone levels or hormonal imbalances resulting from certain conditions or medications can lead to ED.
Iatrogenic issues
Medical treatments such as surgeries, radiation therapy, or medications may unintentionally cause ED.
Neurogenic problems
Trauma, injuries, or surgical procedures that affect the pelvic nerves can disrupt erectile function.
Psychogenic problems
Mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to ED, often referred to as “performance anxiety.”
Vascular issues
The most common cause of ED is impaired blood flow to the penis, usually associated with health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity.
Although performance anxiety plays a role in most cases of ED, it’s essential to recognize that it’s not solely a psychological issue. Stress and anxiety resulting from previous failed sexual experiences can make it harder to achieve and maintain an erection in subsequent encounters.
Supporting a Partner with ED
As a partner, you can play a crucial role in supporting and helping your loved one cope with ED. Here are six pieces of advice from experts:
1. Effective Communication
Maintain open lines of communication with your partner. Discuss their ED-related concerns at an appropriate time, without any sexual activity involved. Initiating such conversations with casual remarks like, “Hey, I noticed we had some problems last night. What are some things we can do?” can make the discussion more comfortable and productive.
2. Normalize the Issue
Accept and acknowledge ED as a normal, common, and manageable part of aging. Both partners should approach it as a team, emphasizing that it’s a natural occurrence that can be worked on together.
3. Avoid Criticism and Comparison
Refrain from reacting with anger or criticism when facing ED-related difficulties. Comparisons to previous partners or implying that it has never happened before can be hurtful and lead to feelings of inadequacy. Building a supportive and non-judgmental environment is crucial.
4. Encourage Seeking Professional Help
Suggest that your partner consult with a healthcare professional, such as a urologist or sex therapist, to determine the cause of their ED and explore appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes. Accompanying them to appointments can provide valuable support.
5. Explore Treatment Options
Assure your partner that there are various treatments available for ED, ranging from medical devices and oral medications to lifestyle changes. Encourage them to consider these options, including exercise and limiting alcohol consumption, to improve erectile function.
6. Expand Intimacy Horizons
Remember that physical intimacy is not solely reliant on erections or sexual intercourse. Broaden your sexual repertoire by exploring other forms of intimacy, such as oral sex, manual stimulation, and incorporating sex toys. By relieving the pressure on achieving and maintaining an erection, performance anxiety may diminish.
Don’t let ED derail a relationship you want to pursue. It’s important to approach the issue with understanding, empathy, and effective communication. With your support and the guidance of healthcare professionals, your partner can navigate through this challenge.
