Erectile dysfunction, the inability to have an erection or sustain an erection long enough to have intercourse, may cause serious problems in a relationship. Many times the problem occurs because of medical problems. Talking with your doctor will help sort out what may cause this frustrating dilemma. Medications and stress can contribute to erectile dysfunction as well as medical problems.
Step 1
Recognize that you no longer have interest in sexual activity. MayoClinic.com states this can cause problems in relationships. Your female partner may begin to believe you have another lover, which makes you disinterested in her. She may make attempts to arouse you that do not work. This symptom of little or no interest in sex remains a key symptom in recognizing that there may be a problem with impotence. This also may cause distrust, jealousy and fighting between the sexual partners. This can lead to a need for marital counseling because of the impotence difficulties.
Step 2
Pay attention to how you react sexually. If you mentally feel aroused, yet cannot get an erection, erectile dysfunction may exist, MayoClinic.com indicates. There may be plenty of stimulation to the penis, but it remains limp and without any signs of erection, the National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Diseases states. This problem of impotence can causes grief for you and you may feel inadequate sexually. You may feel you have failed as a sexual partner.
Step 3
Notice if you regularly become erect with stimulation, but cannot maintain the erection. Your ability to keep an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse does not exist, MayoClinic.com indicates. This problem can cause your sexual partner to think something is wrong with her, rather than that you may have erectile dysfunction, which can cause friction between the two of you.
Step 4
Go to a doctor if the sexual problems continue. The physician can run tests to find out if you have erectile dysfunction. He also can recommend potential medications to help overcome the problem. You can make yourself and your partner less frustrated by getting a diagnosis and treatment for the sexual problem.
Things You'll Need
- Medical tests
- Marriage counseling
- Medical treatment
