Breaking the Stigma around Erectile Dysfunction

What is Erectile Dysfunction? 

Erectile dysfunction is when a penis owner cannot achieve and sustain an erection. ED can vary in severity. For instance, if you are experiencing ED, you might: 

• Have a normal erection initially but have trouble sustaining it during penetrative sex 
• Have difficulty getting an erection despite feeling aroused
• Be unable to have an erection at all, even after being sexually stimulated

While ED can be temporary for some people, others could experience it as a chronic problem that worsens over time. 

Although ED might affect your self-esteem and confidence, it is actually one of the most easily curable sexual dysfunctions. It can be treated using prescription drugs, non-pharmaceutical methods, or a combination of both.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction 

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Severe or persistent ED can impact your relationships, leading to less intimacy and unsatisfactory sex life. Listed below are some symptoms you might develop due to ED: 

Finding it hard to get an erection

Finding it difficult to have an erection is an obvious indicator of ED. Even if you're in the mood for sex, it could still be hard to get hard. Since ED varies in severity, some people find it challenging to have an erection at all, while others might struggle to get an erection strong enough for sex. 

Difficulty maintaining erections

ED can make it difficult to maintain an erection during sex. Even if you don't lose your erection completely, you might notice your penis getting softer during intercourse. Due to this, achieving orgasms or ejaculating might become a problem.  

Lack of interest in sex

Erectile dysfunction can also lead to psychological issues, including worry over sexual performance, frustration, or reduced interest in sex. 

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction? 

There are several causes of erectile dysfunction. While feelings like stress or guilt can cause ED for some people, it might indicate a more serious health issue for others. 

Here are some common physical and psychological factors that can cause ED:

Physical causes

1. Diabetes: ED and Diabetes are strongly connected. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes - both of which are necessary for normal erections - can impair nerve and blood flow.
2. Hormonal imbalance: ED is linked to hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism (low amounts of thyroid hormone) and hyperthyroidism (high amounts of thyroid hormone). 

Additionally, low testosterone levels may contribute to erectile dysfunction.

3. Medications: ED can be triggered or worsened by certain drugs, including appetite suppressants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, sleeping pills, and treatments for ulcers.
4. Hypertension: High blood pressure can harm blood vessels, decreasing circulation throughout the body. This, in turn, can lead to erectile dysfunction.

Psychological causes 

1. Anxiety over sexual performance: It is common to feel anxious about intimacy occasionally. However, if this feeling gets excessively severe or prolonged, your ability to achieve and maintain an erection may be affected.
2. Issues in relationships: A strained relationship negatively impacts how safe and comfortable you feel around your partner, impacting your sexual arousal and leading to erectile dysfunction.
3. Depression: Sexual problems, including decreased libido and issues with sustaining an erection, are common among people experiencing depression.

Besides these, you can also face problems maintaining an erection due to certain lifestyle choices, such as consuming tobacco, prescription drugs, or alcohol.

I might have Erectile Dysfunction. How can I get help? 

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Seeking help for ED can be challenging due to the stigma attached to it. But not at Rocket Health; we offer judgement-free, inclusive, and holistic care for all your sexual concerns. 

Before consulting, you must fill out a brief questionnaire. It includes questions about your medical history. You can also share any details you’d like the doctor to know on the form. Next, we will pair you with a medical expert from Rocket Health, and you can schedule an online consultation.

During the consultation, your doctor will ask questions about your lifestyle, symptoms, family medical history, and the medications you are on - now or earlier.

After the consultation, the doctor will prepare a detailed treatment plan depending on your symptoms. The doctor will also advise you on improving your physical and emotional wellbeing. Depending on your symptoms, you might also be prescribed a few medicines, and you can opt for our discreet delivery to get them delivered to your doorstep. 

Pre-consultation checklist 

We understand that you might feel a little jittery before your consultation, which is okay! That is why we have prepared a small checklist to make the process hassle-free. 

• List any questions you might have for the doctor.
• Write down all your current prescriptions.  
• Jot down how long you have had erection-related problems and what symptoms you most frequently experience.
• Make a mental note of how often you watch porn, masturbate, and engage in sex or related activities.
• Note how frequently you smoke, drink, and use drugs (if any). 

Finally, take a few long, deep breaths; you can do this!

If you are facing any concerns regarding sexual health, don't worry. Rocket Health has you covered every step of the way! Our team of medical professionals will provide you with a safe space to discuss your concerns, devise the right treatment, and maintain confidentiality. 

You can also join our free community to ask questions and seek support anonymously. 

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