1. Seek Psychotherapy
In the past, doctors believed that most cases of impotence had psychological causes. We now know that most cases of impotence, or erectile dysfunction (ED), have an underlying physiological cause. Psychological issues do, however, account for some cases of impotence. For example, if you experience occasional impotence, stress and performance anxiety can compound the problem. Consequently, psychological counseling is an important part of treating impotence for many men. Specialists in this area are called sex therapists, and they can help you and your partner cope with the effects impotence may have on your relationship. Psychotherapy is often used in conjunction with other medical interventions.
2. Medical Interventions: Drugs, Devices and Surgery
When you visit your doctor to discuss impotence, you typically will be subjected to a physical exam, questions about sexual functioning and lab tests. Sometimes impotence can be attributed to another condition or drug side effect that can be easily corrected. In other cases, the impotence may be caused by something that cannot be readily fixed. Once your doctor diagnoses the cause of your impotence, a suitable medical treatment can be prescribed.
Drug therapy with such drugs as sildenafil citrate (sold as Viagra or Revatio), vardenafil (sold as Levitra) and tadalafil (sold as Cialis) is usually the first treatment for impotence. These oral medications work to relax penile muscles so that blood can flow into the penis and produce an erection upon stimulation. Some men cannot take these medications because of persistent medical conditions or potential drug interactions. Other drug therapies include alprostadil (available in injectable and suppository forms) and testosterone. Testosterone replacement therapy is only recommended if you have a diagnosed testosterone deficiency.
If you don't take medication to treat your impotence, impotence devices may offer an alternative, but their success rates vary. Penis pumps, or vacuum constriction devices, work externally to draw blood into the penis and keep it there long enough for sexual intercourse. There is the risk of injury if you use one of these devices. Penile implants, or penile prostheses, work internally. Using a pump implanted under the skin, you can pump fluid from a reservoir into cylinders inside the shaft of your penis. This causes an erection that can be deflated by releasing a valve.
Reconstructive surgery for blocked arteries or veins in the penis represents another medical intervention. The field of candidates for this surgery is small, however. If your impotence has been caused by an injury, this may be an option for you.
3. Make Necessary Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a healthier lifestyle may alleviate impotence. A number of lifestyle factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Smoking and alcohol abuse are major contributors to erectile dysfunction. Dropping both may improve your potency. Reducing stress and learning how to manage stressful events can also help. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises and guided imagery can help you decompress. Eating well, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep are all ways you can change your lifestyle and cure your erectile dysfunction.
