A lot of men do not want to talk about their erectile dysfunction (ED), but the truth is that it can affect more than just themselves- their partners are also affected by the condition. The right communication will help avoid any embarrassment and allow room for understanding and support to grow.
Sex is a common topic in most relationships. But when one of the partners has erectile dysfunction, it can be difficult to know how to talk about it. It is important for both people to understand that this does not change anything about their relationship and love for one other. This article is designed to help you have more open conversations with your partner about ED.
ED is common and can affect anyone. It is estimated that over 30 million men in the United States have experienced ED at some point in their lives. It may be random, occasional, or chronic, but 1 in 10 men suffer from ED. While many men with ED are over the age of 50, there are still younger men who experience it, as well. Roughly 8% of men between 20-29 and 11% of men between 30-39 experience ED.
How ED Affects Relationships
The Sexual Dysfunction Association conducted an online survey to see how ED affected men. The results showed erectile dysfunction causes distress to those who experience it, with marked effects on their self-esteem and relationships. The most common initial reaction to erectile dysfunction was a sense of emasculation. For many men, the ability to perform sexually and to satisfy their partner was an important marker of their masculinity.
The importance of self-esteem cannot be overstated for a successful relationship. A person who is confident and proud of themselves will often times find they are more satisfied with their romantic relationships. High self-esteem allows them to enjoy romantic connections more than if they were suffering from feelings of worthlessness.
But it is not just the partner experiencing the ED who has lowered self-esteem. Despite the fact research has shown that ED normally has natural causes (like a circulation problem), partners of those experiencing ED have feelings of unattractiveness and tend to worry their partner has feelings for someone else. Fears of intimacy and of rejection can grow in this environment. Because of this, anxiety and depression can develop in the partner as well as the person experiencing ED.
How to Communicate with your Partner
First, it is important to remember no one is at fault for their erectile problems. It is important to broach the subject in the right setting. Having this conversation in bed or right after an ED instance has occurred is not ideal. Instead, it is better to prepare for the conversation and have it in a more relaxed or non-threatening setting.
Before beginning the conversation, it may help to educate yourself on why ED can occur and how to treat it so you can bring the information to your partner. Deepening your knowledge on the topic can help you and your partner better understand why ED is occurring and strengthen your support for one another as you venture into treatment or lifestyle changes that can help the condition.
If you are the partner of someone suffering from ED and wish to broach the subject with them, it is good to remember to set the right emotional tone for the conversation. It is important to not corner your partner or make them feel like you are attacking the condition. If your partner becomes embarrassed or defensive, then do not push the topic. However, do not entirely drop the subject. Allow them some time but let them know you need a follow-up conversation. It may be good to communicate that the condition is common, but that there are many treatment options available.
In some cases, it may be best to approach the subject with either a medical professional or with a marriage counselor. Regardless of how the topic is brought up, it is important to reiterate that you and your partner are a team and that you can lend support to one another.
A Few Things to Know about ED
Erectile Dysfunction is not necessarily about a lack of arousal. ED can actually be a symptom of underlying health concerns such as depression, high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, low testosterone, or heart disease. Emotional triggers such as anxiety or high stress levels can also cause or worsen the effects of erectile dysfunction.
ED is Treatable
The sooner you get the right treatment for your ED, the better. Treatments range from lifestyle changes to oral medications and sometimes even surgery. Making healthier food choices, improving your sleep quality, and exercising regularly can be lifestyle changes that improve the symptoms of ED. When lifestyle changes are not working or are unavailable, there are multiple prescription options to combat the effects of ED. The availability of generic ED medications has revolutionized the treatment of this condition by allowing for my financially viable options.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of ED, then it is recommended you speak to your healthcare provider.
Many women are concerned about the effects that hormonal birth control might have on their health. If you are thinking of starting the pill, or if you have been on the pill for a while, it makes sense that you may have concerns about how long-lasting any side effects might be. It may seem as if adding hormones to your body may not be compatible for your long-term health.
The good news is the pill and other forms of birth control are safe. Different forms of hormonal birth control work by introducing hormones that are already similar to the ones already in your body. Introducing these similar and natural hormones are used to prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation or thickening cervical mucus. The pill can also help balance the hormones already present in the body to improve complexion, reduce premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and even reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Breaking Common Myths
Fertility
One common myth about hormonal birth control is that it can reduce your ability to conceive once you are off the pill. However, the pill works by introducing low levels of the hormones necessary to prevent pregnancy. These low levels are the reason why the pill must be taken daily. Once you stop taking the pill, your fertility goes back to normal, and chances of conception are improved within three months. One type of hormonal birth control that can impact fertility in the near term is the birth control shot. It can take between three and 18 months after your last shot for your ability to get pregnant to return.
One thing to keep in mind is that although birth control does not affect fertility, age does. If someone has been on birth control for ten years and then struggles to conceive, it could be because they are 10 years older than they were.
Cancer Risk
Another common myth about birth control is it increases your chances of cancer. However, hormonal birth control actually lowers your risk for certain cancers, including ovarian cancer. In fact, certain types of birth control can actually decrease your risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50%, even for decades after stopping your prescription. Some research indicates a slight increased risk of breast cancer, however, this risk decreases once a prescription is ended. Breast cancer is also highly unlikely in pre-menopausal womxn, so the risk is still low.
While not cancer, fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries can cause concern or pain for those who have them. Hormonal birth control methods actually stop your body from ovulating, and therefore lower the risk of creating cysts on your ovaries. Some birth control can even reduce the risk of forming breast cysts as well.
Benefits of the Pill
While birth control can have short-term health side effects, these risks disappear once you stop taking your prescription. Combination birth control (estrogen + progestin) is associated with an increased risk of stroke, blood clots and heart attack, so those at risk for these things should avoid this type of birth control. Those at risk include smokers, those who suffer from migraines with auras, and those who have a personal or family history of blood clots. Those who should avoid combination birth control can instead take the mini pill (progestin only).
The pill does offer immediate health benefits for those who take it as prescribed. Taking birth control can improve your skin by balancing your hormones. The pill, rings, and patches, all lessen PMS symptoms like backaches, cramps, mood swings, breast tenderness, bloating, depression, and more. Periods can also be lighter and even less painful when on the pill. Some forms of birth control also allow you to skip periods so you can be in control of your own period timing.
The Bottom Line
Hormonal birth control can be a great option for those with certain health needs, or those wanting to avoid pregnancy. Any risk that comes with a birth control prescription is short-term and decreases or disappears once you stop taking hormonal birth control. Your ability to conceive returns once your prescription has ended, or if you do not take the daily pill as prescribed, and your long-term fertility is not affected by your birth control.
While certain types of birth control are not for everyone, there is a type of birth control for everyone. There are plenty of options available to womxn, whether they are looking to avoid pregnancy, improve their skin, lessen PMS, or just skip periods in general.
If you are considering starting birth control, then it is important to be informed about your options. Talk to your healthcare provider or set up a telehealth consultation in order to help you find the right form of birth control for you.
The emotional and physical symptoms of stress can have a devastating impact on your life. It has been shown that chronic stress weakens the heart, increases blood pressure, disrupts the digestive system, and can cause depression and anxiety. With all of this in mind, is it really a surprise that stress would affect the quality of your erections? The erectile process involves signals flowing from the brain to stimulate blood flow in response, but stress can interrupt this communication between your mind and body, leaving you psychologically aroused but without an erection. An overwhelming amount of stress can be triggered by a number of factors. There is pressure from work, psychological issues like anxiety or low self-esteem leading to more serious conditions such as depression; there are also traumatic events, such as financial problems, that give us severe stress. If you think stress might be the cause of your ED, talk with a healthcare provider and discuss how it’s affecting other aspects of life.
How to Treat Stress Related ED
If stress or high-stress events are the cause of your ED, there are many strategies to help reduce it.
One of the best options for alleviating stress is through talk therapy, whether it’s personal counseling or couples’ sessions; exploring different approaches can help you find healthier means for dealing with any stress or anxieties you may be having.
You may find that making lifestyle changes improves your mental and physical well-being. These include cutting back on the amount of tobacco or alcohol you consume, getting more exercise each day by walking (or even taking up yoga), practicing mindful thinking techniques like meditation which can help reduce stress levels while also enhancing erectile function through improved blood flow at rest.
You should discuss these options with a doctor if they are unfamiliar territory for anyone who has frequent trouble achieving an erection during sex because there could be other underlying health conditions causing it – but this does not need to stop them altogether.
Exercise is an incredible way to not only lower stress levels, but also help reduce symptoms of ED. Staying physically active can bolster testosterone levels, provide an emotional boost, increase self-confidence, and reduce depression. All of these factors have been shown to improve sexual health in men.
High-fat and processed foods should be avoided in order to lower stress levels and a strive for a healthier libido. Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your daily diet is the best way to improve your mood, and therefore your sexual performance and intimacy. The time it takes to see improvement in erectile health after adjusting diet varies for every individual. Some people may experience noticeable changes within weeks, while others only notice minor changes over a few months.
Many men will increase tobacco and alcohol use during stressful times, but this only increases stress levels and lowers libido. Alcohol is actually a depressant, which means that if you are drinking regularly or heavily then both your libido and your mood are going to be down. Regular tobacco use causes the chemicals found within cigarette smoke to injure the lining of your blood vessels and damage the function of your heart, lungs, and yes, your erectile health. However, quitting smoking can improve symptoms for those with erectile dysfunction.
If stress reduction is not enough to resolve your ED, you still have options.
There are plenty of prescription options for treating erectile dysfunction if you can’t, or don’t want to, go the natural route. Two of the most common medications for ED are Sildenafil and Tadalafil, which come in pill form for oral consumption. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis, which means you can have all the same benefits of a name-brand prescription without paying the high price. There is no chemical difference between the name-brand or the generic version- the only difference is how much you pay for your prescription.
Stress is unavoidable, but it does not have to be a debilitating force in your life. You can take proactive measures to lower stress levels that may contribute to ED by adopting healthy habits and engaging in self-care strategies you enjoy. Erectile dysfunction is not something that should go unmentioned; instead of shying away from this tough topic with embarrassment or shame, it is time to learn all about erectile dysfunction so you will know what it means for your health. When it comes to erectile dysfunction, you have options for treatment. It can be difficult to keep your sex life alive when you’re experiencing ED, but do not delay in talking with a healthcare provider. They will help find the solution that is right for you and resolve other health problems before they become bigger than what should be happening.
Starting a PrEP prescription can feel like a daunting process. There are many steps that need to come before you are actually able to take your first dose- including taking an HIV test and making an appointment to consult with a healthcare provider. Problems can arise- you may not have time to go see your healthcare provider, maybe you struggle with finding an HIV test kit, or maybe your insurance will not help cover the prescription. Fortunately, there are ways to simplify the process.
First…what is PrEP?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, and it is a safe and reliable way to prevent the spread of HIV — it is up to 99% effective when taken as prescribed. PrEP is for those who are HIV negative, and have partners who are HIV positive, or partners who have an unknown HIV status. PrEP is a prescription pill that must be taken daily in order to offer the most protection.
Reducing HIV Starts at Home
Despite knowing how to reduce the spread of HIV, a staggering 38,000 Americans become HIV positive every year. The key to eliminating HIV is by knowing your HIV status. Many people believe they do not have access to testing, or they are unwilling to get tested, which means they are risking their lives without even knowing it. 1 out of 7 Americans with the virus do not know they carry it, and half of teens and young adults are also not aware they are HIV positive- these statistics show HIV is continuing to be passed along.
The number of new HIV infections in America is alarming, but it can be reduced by making sure that all those who are at risk get tested. We know there can be anxieties that come up with testing, and that is why we at TIN Rx provide free at-home testing kits. HIV testing is done by looking for HIV antibodies in either the blood or saliva. Our testing kits are mailed directly to your door with clear instructions on how to use them and send them back to us. Once your results come back negative, you are able to take the next step to start your PrEP prescription.
What Does a PrEP Prescription look like?
PrEP is a daily medication, so it is important to hold yourself accountable when it comes to staying on schedule. If taken every day, PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV. In order to remember to take your prescription, we recommend creating reminders on your phone, setting alarms, or keeping your prescription bottle in sight. It is crucial to stay motivated to stay safe.
While on PrEP, you will want to make sure to check-in with your healthcare provider every three months to re-test for HIV and make sure your kidneys are functioning properly.
What Should I Consider?
There are a few things to consider before beginning your PrEP prescription. It’s important to remember it is okay to open up and seek support. In the event that you are feeling lost or confused about this process, seek out a trusted friend for support. Whether it’s someone in your family who has been there before or an experienced mentor – any person can be helpful when navigating through prescription options and their associated processes. And, of course, our team at TIN Rx would love nothing more than to help provide clarity and advice- so do not hesitate to reach out if assistance is needed!
Something else to consider about a PrEP prescription is that while it protects against HIV, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, or STIs. Condom use is still recommended to protect the sexual health of yourself and your partners.
It is also important to stay motivated about your sexual health and keep planning ahead. Scheduling your check-ins and testing ahead of time can help keep your prescription organized and simple.
Ready to start?
The future of HIV prevention is now. A PrEP regimen can transform the way we protect ourselves from this disease and it has never been easier than right now to get started with your prescription for this life-saving medication. It may take time and effort to prioritize your sexual health and safety, but it is definitely worth it. Starting a PrEP prescription protects you, but also any partner of yours as well.
Statistics show that erectile dysfunction is becoming a more widespread problem in the United States. In fact, the National Institutes of Health estimates that over 30 million men in the US have ED. That is 1 in 10 men, and comparable to the population of Texas! And it is not just an issue for older guys; half of all men 40 and over report some degree of erectile dysfunction. The good news is there are things you can do to prevent this from happening. We’ve compiled 5 important factors for preventing ED – statistics and tips below!
1. Exercise Consistently
Exercise is an incredible way to not only boost your circulatory system and increase blood flow through the whole body, but also help reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction. A Harvard study found that just 30 minutes a day could cut down on the risk for ED by 41%. In addition, other research suggests maintaining moderate exercise may be able to restore sexual performance in obese middle-aged men with ED. Staying physically active can bolster testosterone levels, provide an emotional boost, increase self-confidence, and reduce depression. All of these factors have been shown to improve sexual health in men.
Aerobic exercises are a great option for men looking to increase their sexual performance. Swimming, walking, and running will all boost blood flow by increasing circulation, which may help maintain stronger erections.
2. Watch Your Diet
Most men already know a diet high in fatty foods can lead to heart health issues, but most do not consider how the decreased circulation from poor diet will cause erectile health problems. High-fat and processed foods like fried chicken or sugary cereals should be avoided for a healthier libido. Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your daily diet is the best way to improve sexual performance and increase intimacy. The Mediterranean diet is one that many have found success within reducing erection difficulties due to its ability to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.
The time it takes to see improvement in erectile health after adjusting diet varies for every individual. Some people may experience noticeable changes within weeks, while others only notice minor changes over a few months.
3. Keep Alcohol to a Minimum
Some may think a drink or two before intimacy will only decrease “bedroom nerves.” However, regular to heavy alcohol consumption can actually lead to decreased sexual performance. Alcohol is a depressant which means that if you are drinking heavily then your libido and mood are going to be down too! A study by the University of Washington has shown sober men are able to achieve erections more quickly than those that have been drinking. This is because intoxication slows down or interrupts signals between the brain and body, resulting in erectile dysfunction. Drinking in moderation is key, but moderation depends on the individual. The CDC recommends men should limit their consumption to two or less drinks per day.
4. Quit Smoking
While erectile dysfunction typically becomes more prevalent among men as they grow older, recent studies confirm this condition can also occur earlier on if there has been ample exposure to cigarette smoke. Many people don’t realize that heavy smokers, even at a younger age, have a much higher chance of developing ED. The chemicals in cigarette smoke injure the lining of your blood vessels and damage the function of your heart, lungs, and yes, erectile health. However, quitting smoking can improve symptoms for those with erectile dysfunction. The severity and age of onset will determine how well they recover from it.
5. Get Adequate Sleep
It is commonly known that sleep can negatively affect a person’s mental and physical health. A recent study has shown how irregular or inadequate sleeping patterns may lead to testosterone levels dropping, which could then cause not just lower libido, but also weaker erections. A few sleepless nights will most likely not contribute to erectile dysfunction, but an ongoing lack of rest may be the cause of more serious problems down the road. Sleep disorders such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea are both linked with erectile dysfunction in men due to their interference with sexual arousal. The National Sleep Foundation recommends healthy adults should aim to have 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
What can you do when your lifestyle is too busy for exercise? Maybe things just don’t seem to be going well with quitting smoking. Or maybe you have tried all of the tips above and still struggle with erectile dysfunction. What are your options?
There are plenty of prescription options for treating erectile dysfunction if you can’t, or don’t want to, go the natural route. Two of the most common medications for ED are Sildenafil and Tadalafil, which come in pill form for oral consumption. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis, which means you can have all the same benefits of a name-brand prescription without paying the price. There is no chemical difference between the name-brand or the generic version- the only difference is how much you pay for your prescription!
Erectile dysfunction isn’t something that should just go unmentioned; instead of shying away from this tough topic with embarrassment or shame, learn all about erectile dysfunction so you’ll know what it means for your relationship as well as how best to avoid developing symptoms yourself! When it comes to erectile dysfunction, you have options. We offer generic Sildenafil and Tadalafil for those struggling with ED.
Yes, it is time for a checkup. We know it can be difficult for men to talk about mental and physical health with doctors because there is a fear of judgment or awkwardness, but this silence can lead to poor treatment outcomes and higher mortality rates. Sure you’re tough, but there is no shame in discussing your mental or physical health with your doctor — it can help improve your quality of life.
Men should communicate with their healthcare providers to not only take care of their own mental and physical health, but also the sexual health of their partners. Many men are embarrassed about discussing issues such as erectile dysfunction or loss of libido because they perceive it as a sign that something is wrong with them personally, but by avoiding these topics, physical and mental health can worsen.
Your mental health can also be tied to your sexual health. By treating your mental health, you can improve your sexual health and your quality of intimacy.
Understanding Emotional and Mental Health
Guys, we know mental health may feel more difficult to discuss with your healthcare provider, but your mental wellness is just as important as your physical health. Having an honest conversation with your doctor about your mental wellbeing and emotions can help improve your treatment and overall health. Be sure to bring it up with your doctor if you have
Treatment for ED can range from diet changes, stress management tips, a reduced use of alcohol, or prescription medications. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis. They have the same effectiveness as the name-brand, without the same wallet-breaking cost.
• Concerns over stigmas tied to certain prescriptions
• Depression, stress, or anxiety
• Struggles with alcohol or substance abuse
• Physical, emotional, or mental abuse from someone close to you, or online
Your mental health can also be tied to your sexual health. By treating your mental health, you can improve your sexual health and your quality of intimacy.
Erectile Dysfunction
ED affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States. That is one in ten men, or the entire population of Texas! While it is not uncommon for a man to struggle with an erection once in a while, an ongoing problem should be addressed with a healthcare provider. Sometimes an underlying condition can be the cause of ED (such as hypertension, the use of certain prescriptions like antidepressants, or diabetes). Diet, lack of exercise, stress, and alcohol and tobacco use can also be the cause of ongoing ED.
Treatment for ED can range from diet changes, stress management tips, a reduced use of alcohol, or prescription medications. Sildenafil and Tadalafil are the generic versions of Viagra and Cialis. They have the same effectiveness as the name-brand, without the same wallet-breaking cost.
New or Worsening Pain and Abnormal Symptoms
It may feel easier to believe a new symptom will disappear on its own, but it is important to communicate any health changes with your healthcare provider. Sometimes an unusual symptom can be a sign of a bigger problem and catching it earlier can help prevent future health problems. These unusual symptoms can range from urination changes like leakage or pain in the lower abdomen, to tenderness, swelling, or pain in the testicles.
Men, when it comes to your health, you should be honest with not only yourself, but with your healthcare provider. Be open about any symptoms or concerns that might affect how you feel, physically and mentally, in order to get the best treatment for yourself. Your sexual health is crucial to having better physical and mental health, so it is important to communicate whether you are at risk for contracting HIV, or if you have struggled consistently with erectile dysfunction. Your healthcare provider can also help by evaluating your mental health and addressing any of your personal concerns.
HIV Prevention
Men who engage in anal sex, already have STI’s, and who share needles or syringes while using intravenous drugs are all at risk for contracting HIV. HIV affects the immune system and can lead to AIDS. When it comes to preventing HIV, there are a few different options you can take. Your medical provider may recommend practicing safe sex with proper condom use, or they may suggest starting a PrEP prescription. PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and is up to 99% effective at preventing the contraction of HIV when taken correctly.
According to HIV.gov, one in seven individuals in the US are living with HIV and are unaware of their infection. It is important to start your HIV prevention journey by knowing your current HIV status. In order to start a PrEP prescription, you must test negative for HIV. PrEP is a preventative treatment and only is effective if the PrEP regimen is adhered to.
Those who have sexual partners with unknown HIV status, or a partner who is HIV positive, qualify for PrEP.
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