Less erection while having intercourse - #10391
I recently got married, around 15 days ago, but I’ve been under a lot of stress because I’ve been experiencing difficulty in maintaining a proper erection. This has affected my ability to have a complete physical relationship with my spouse. It’s causing me a lot of emotional pressure and anxiety. I’m not sure what the cause is or what I should do next. I would really appreciate your guidance or any medical advice or treatment that could help improve my condition.
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Doctors’ responses
Experiencing issues with maintaining an erection can certainly be distressing, but it’s important to know that it’s a common issue and often not as serious as it initially seems. The role of stress, especially with recent changes like marriage, cannot be underestimated; stress and anxiety are some of the most common psychological causes of erectile dysfunction (ED). They can interfere with the complex chain of events that lead to an erection, starting from arousal all the way to maintaining it. A critical step you might want to consider is reducing stress. This could involve engaging in regular physical activity, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, or even speaking with a mental health professional if the anxiety feels overwhelming.
While addressing stress, evaluating your lifestyle factors can also be beneficial. You should consider factors like reducing alcohol consumption, ensuring a healthy diet, and getting adequate sleep. These have been shown to significantly improve erection quality by enhancing blood flow and reducing overall bodily stress. Medication often prescribed for ED, like sildenafil (Viagra), might be an option too. However, it’s crucial not to self-prescribe and to first consult with your physician. They can assess whether it’s appropriate for you, considering any possible interactions with current medications or contraindications from pre-existing health issues.
Sometimes, organic (physical) causes need to be evaluated as well, like hormonal imbalances, diabetes, or cardiovascular issues. These usually present with more persistent ED and might require more thorough investigation, so discussing these possibilities with your doctor would be needed if lifestyle adjustments don’t lead to an improvement. Diagnosing underlying conditions would involve some tests including blood tests, and possibly ultrasound or other examinations. If all else fails and the problem persists, referral to a specialist such as a urologist or psychologist specializing in these issues could also be considered. Remember, it’s crucial to address the issue rather than ignore it, both for physical health and the health of your relationship.
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