Effects of Stress on Erectile Disfunction

Basics

According to the Mayo Clinic, erectile dysfunction is the inability of a man to maintain a hard erection long enough to complete the sex act. While the condition affects all men at every age at one point or another, long-term erectile dysfunction can be a signal of other medical or emotional problems. Sometimes referred to as impotence, continuing dysfunction can cause relationship problems and low self-esteem. The most serious forms of erectile dysfunction are related to physical impairments that usually can be treated. Serious complications that cause the condition include heart disease, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. Stress is a major contributor to most physical diseases and may have a more profound effect on sexual functioning when combined with psychological stress.

Considerations

Sexual arousal is a physical phenomenon that is accentuated by thoughts and emotions. When interrupted by negative thoughts and feelings, an erection may become impossible to maintain. Whether men are worried about their performance because of physical problems or are thinking about a deadline at work, once the brain begins to disengage from the sexual arousal, the penis responds by deflating. Once it happens to a man, fear that it may happen again may actually serve to recreate the scenario over and over. Lifestyle habits such as lack of exercise, excessive drinking and smoking also can affect an erection and add to the stress of impotence. Poor eating habits also add to the stress on the body that can make sex difficult.

Prevention

While the erectile dysfunction medications on the market such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra can improve the physical aspects of an erection, they often boost a man's confidence so that he can concentrate on his partner, knowing he has medical assistance to avoid impotence. Sex therapy is an option for couples to work on developing techniques and building communication in order to facilitate satisfying sexual relations. By learning how to talk about sex, couples can reduce the amount of stress in the bedroom and concentrate on the act. A sexual counselor may prescribe assignments to improve sex, such as watching videos or reading about new sexual techniques. According to researchers at the Cleveland Clinic, stress reduction techniques are one of the best ways to prevent erectile dysfunction. Keeping a positive attitude can be achieved with practice in daily times of quiet reflection. They recommend professional assistance when self-help methods fail.