Erectile dysfunction is a problem that affects more than 50% of men over 70 years of age. However, there are an alarming number of cases in young people when it has a psychogenic origin.
Unfortunately, although the current lifestyle has contributed to the exponential increase in incidences, the topic is still taboo in many societies. In this way, seeking help and the possibility of receiving adequate treatment is complicated.
Why is it so difficult to talk about erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the difficulty or inability of men to achieve or maintain the erection necessary to achieve a satisfactory sexual encounter.
Although when its causes are physical it is possible to find different options that effectively provide a solution to erectile dysfunction, the panorama It is a little more complicated when the problem derives from psychological factors.
For most people, virility and masculinity are two associated concepts, therefore, it is a topic that generates shame and guilt. Considering the way ED has been stigmatized, men feel fear of being judged. Added to this is the lack of knowledge about the condition and erroneous beliefs.
What is life like with erectile dysfunction?
Understanding the implications of ED requires analyzing its impact both from the point of view of men and their partners. This is because we are talking about a problem that affects the quality of the relationship not only from the point of view of sexuality, but also in everyday life, as it usually generates conflicts and tension in daily life.
A challenging experience for men
Regardless of its origin, the DA can be traumatic in most cases. From the emotional perspective, shame is accompanied by the feeling of humiliation.
In general, those who suffer from it experience strong episodes of frustration, as well as substantial decrease in self-esteem. The change in self-perception becomes the gateway to depression and insecurities.
Those affected they avoid sexual encounters as a way to avoid direct exposure to failure, instead of talking about it openly with your partner in order to find a solution together.
This is how the other protagonist of the relationship experiences it
Although men are directly affected, sexual impotence has direct consequences on the couple. Normally, the other person experiences feelings of guilt. Wrongly, they consider that the root of the problem lies in a lack of desire, especially after undergoing physical changes, for example, a considerable weight gain.
Another emotion linked to ED is the feeling of rejection; especially when men allow themselves to be carried away by taboos or prejudices and do not speak openly about the subject. This causes a negative impact on self-esteemcompromises intimacy and nullifies the opportunity to feel satisfaction in the sexual acts that are consummated. In the worst case scenario, paranoia, jealousy and accusations of infidelity come.
Talking about erectile dysfunction without fear can be the first step towards the solution
It does not matter if its origin is physiological or psychological, communication is a key factor to find a solution to sexual impotence. Contacting specialized professionals means obtaining an accurate diagnosis and, consequently, receiving the indicated treatment.
For its part, talking about it with your partner plays an important role, especially, after experiencing the first failed attempts in the sexual encounter, since, normally, the fear of it happening again brings with it the loss of self-confidence and conditions expectations regarding the next encounter.
Turn to psychologists specialized in sexology
It’s no secret, the mind has extraordinary power in the overall functioning of the body. In this way, psychological intervention represents an effective tool able to contribute to a quick and satisfactory resolution.
In therapy, not only the origin of the problem is treated, but also emotional aspects are addressed both the person directly affected and their partner.
Although no case is the same as another, as a rule, the strategy to follow begins with the identification of the underlying causes, this allows us to design an action plan focused on reinforcing trust and intimacy and exerting a true change in beliefs, thoughts and ways. to face helplessness.
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This article has been reviewed by our editorial team at PsychologyFor to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to evidence-based research. The content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice.
