Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common male reproductive health issue that affects a man’s ability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. While not always linked directly to infertility, ED can significantly reduce the chances of natural conception.

The prevalence of ED increases with age—affecting approximately 5–10% of men under 40, 22% of men over 40, and nearly 49% by the age of 70.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

ED doesn’t usually have visible symptoms but manifests through difficulty in achieving or sustaining erections. Underlying causes can be physical or psychological:

Physical Causes:

• Diabetes and cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• Obesity
• Low testosterone levels
• Excessive alcohol consumption or substance abuse
• Tobacco use
• Sleep disorders
• Prostate treatments
• Spinal cord or pelvic injuries
• Side effects of certain medications

Psychological Causes:

• Depression and anxiety
• Stress or mental fatigue
• Relationship conflicts
• Performance anxiety

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options

ED can be successfully managed in most cases through a combination of medical, lifestyle, and psychological approaches:

• Medications
  Oral medications like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) are effective for about 80% of men.
• Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
  For men with persistent ED or spinal cord injuries, sperm retrieval techniques like TESA, PESA, or electroejaculation are used, followed by IUI or IVF/ICSI.
• Lifestyle Changes
  • Regular exercise and weight management
  • A healthy, balanced diet
  • Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
  • Practicing yoga and stress-relief techniques
  • Ensuring adequate sleep
• Counseling and Therapy
  Psychological support or couples therapy can be essential when ED is triggered by mental health factors.