How To Deal With Erectile Dysfunction

**This post is sponsored by MailMyMeds 

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men across the globe, yet discussions surrounding it often remain in the shadows due to stigma and feelings of shame or embarrassment. According to recent data, 52% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 experience ED in the United States alone [1]. However, many younger men experience erectile difficulties as well.  

ED is defined as a persistent or recurring difficulty in getting and sustaining an erection sufficient for satisfying sexual activity [1]. The high prevalence of ED and the stigma surrounding it highlights the need for solutions that are accessible, effective, and discreet. Medication is one of the most effective treatments for ED [2]; however, the costs and barriers to accessing medical treatment often stop men from seeking interventions.  

Managing Erectile Dysfunction   

For the majority of men, ED stems from physical issues, such as inadequate blood flow to the penis [2]. However, ED can also stem from psychological issues, such as performance anxiety. While psychological factors can contribute to ED at any age, physiological factors typically play a larger role with advanced age.  

While ED can be managed in several different ways, depending on the individual and the underlying cause, medications such as sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) have revolutionized ED treatment, offering hope, and restoring sexual confidence to many individuals. Medication has the potential to help whether the cause is a “plumbing issue” (i.e., physiology) or a “wiring issue” (i.e., psychology).  

Many studies have examined whether men experience improvements in their erections when given a medication to manage ED versus a placebo (i.e., a sugar pill with no active medical ingredients). For example, in one study drawing on data from over 11,000 participants, the men who received medication reported significant improvements in their orgasms, intercourse satisfaction, sexual desire, and overall satisfaction, with nearly 80% of men reporting these improvements in their sexual health, compared to only around 30% for the placebo [4].  

Other studies have found that use of ED medications also improves the partner’s sexual function. For example, in an international study involving the partners of heterosexual men with ED [3], the researchers found that use of medications to manage ED was positively related to women’s sexual experiences. In other words, the use of these drugs can help men and their partners to experience improvements in both sexual function and satisfaction. 

Unfortunately, however, even with the increasingly availability and affordability of these medications, accessing them can present its own set of challenges. 

Barriers to Accessing Treatment   

Many men experience anxiety when broaching the topic of ED with their primary healthcare providers. The fear of judgment or discomfort often prevents open communication, leading to untreated ED and diminished quality of sex. Moreover, the prospect of visiting a pharmacy in person to obtain prescriptions can be equally intimidating for some, adding another layer of stress to an already sensitive situation.  

In a study of over 600 men, researchers found that most men did not seek medical treatment for their ED, and that the barriers for not seeking such treatment included embarrassment talking about their condition [5]. Doctors have highlighted that ED is often stigmatized and that this can create obstacles for men in terms of seeking medical intervention [6]. At the same time, some physicians are not comfortable talking about sex with their patients, which prevents some doctors from even bringing up the subject during routine medical appointments [6]. 

Overcoming the Barriers to Accessing ED Treatment  

So how do we deal with these challenges to accessing treatment? Enter Mail My Meds, a solution that combines science-based treatment with convenience. Mail My Meds provides a platform for individuals to discreetly address their ED concerns from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. 

The process is simple. Users complete an online prescription questionnaire, which takes as little as 3 minutes, in which they provide essential information about their health history and symptoms. This information is then reviewed by a partnering US board-certified physician, providing a thorough evaluation of each individual’s needs. Upon submission, users can expect a prompt review of their prescription request, often receiving approval within as little as one hour. This quick turnaround time eliminates the prolonged waiting periods commonly associated with traditional healthcare settings, offering faster relief and peace of mind. 

Mail My Meds prioritizes affordability without compromising quality. Generic versions of popular ED medications like Viagra and Cialis are available starting at just $2 per pill. All medications are dispensed from reputable US pharmacies, guaranteeing authenticity and safety. Orders are shipped directly to the user’s doorstep in 2-5 business days in discreet packaging, ensuring privacy and confidentiality throughout the entire experience. Gone are the days of awkward encounters at the pharmacy counter; with Mail My Meds, individuals can reclaim control over their sexual health discreetly and comfortably. 

Is Medication Right For You?  

Clinical trials find that ED medications are generally safe, effective, and well-tolerated by most individuals [4]. However, ED can be the result of a variety of different physiological and psychological factors. Different treatments may work better for different people, so it is important to consult with a physician to determine the best course of treatment for you.     

Takeaways 

Addressing ED requires a multifaceted approach that considers factors such as efficacy, affordability, and accessibility. By embracing science-based treatment methods and leveraging the power of telemedicine, services like Mail My Meds offer a viable solution to many individuals struggling with ED who are seeking to reclaim their sexual health and function.  

Want to learn more about Sex and Psychology? Click here for more from the blog or here to listen to the podcast. 

References: 

[1] Leslie, S., Sooriyamoorthy, T. (2024, January). Erectile dysfunction. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562253/ 

[2] John Hopkins Medical. (n.d.). Erectile dysfunction. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/erectile-dysfunction  

[3] Fisher, W. A., Rosen, R. C., Eardley, I., Sand, M., & Goldstein, I. (2005). Sexual experience of female partners of men with erectile dysfunction: The Female Experience of Men’s Attitudes to Life Events and Sexuality (FEMALES) Study. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2(5), 675–684. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2005.00118.x  

[4] Goldstein, I., Tseng, L.-J., Creanga, D., Stecher, V., & Kaminetsky, J. C. (2016). Efficacy and safety of sildenafil by age in men with erectile dysfunction. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 13(5), 852–859. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.02.166 

[5] Shabsigh, R., Perelman, M. A., Laumann, E. O., & Lockhart, D. C. (2004). Drivers and barriers to seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction: a comparison of six countries. BJU International, 94(7), 1055–1065. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2004.05104.x 

[6] Al-Shaiji, T. F. (2022). Breaking the ice of erectile dysfunction taboo: A focus on clinician–patient communication. Journal of Patient Experience, 9, 23743735221077512–23743735221077512. https://doi.org/10.1177/23743735221077512 

Image Credits: 123RF/Antonio Diaz