Erectile dysfunction is also known as "impotence." This is characterized by consistently not being able to maintain an erection long enough to complete a sexual experience. Erectile dysfunction can cause a man to lose his self-confidence, and it can also be very hard on relationships. Physical and psychological factors can both contribute to erectile dysfunction, and there are several ways it can be treated.
Step 1
Get a prescription from your doctor. Prescription medications called "phosphodiesterase inhibitors" can be used to relax penile muscles and promote blood flow to the penis, leading to an erection. Examples of these drugs include tadalafil, vardenafil and sildenafil. Your doctor will prescribe these after asking you questions about your symptoms, your lifestyle and emotional frame of mind. He might also run some blood tests and do an ultrasound.
Step 2
Inject yourself with a prescription to cause an erection. Alprostadil is a medication that you can inject into your penis near the base with a fine-tipped needle. This causes blood to flow into the penis, and an erection can be seen within 5 to 20 minutes following the injection.
Step 3
Get an alprostadil suppository. An alprostadil suppository can be inserted into the top of your urethra with a small applicator. It goes about two inches into the urethra, and when it fits in place, erectile tissue absorbs it and blood flow is increased. The suppository is smaller than a grain of rice.
Step 4
Get your hormones checked. Testosterone is a male sex hormone that also helps with muscle strength and energy levels. If you are diagnosed with low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy.
Step 5
Use a penis pump. A penis pump is a battery-operated device that consists of a pump with a hollow tube. You place the tube over your penis and turn it on to create a vacuum effect. The air is sucked out, and blood flow to your penis is generated, leading to an erection. A tension ring then is placed on the bottom of your penis to prevent blood from flowing back. When you finish having sex, you take the ring off.
Step 6
Give up smoking. Smoking is known for its damaging effects on the lungs. It can also constrict blood vessels that lead to the penis and cause erectile dysfunction.
Step 7
Lose weight. According to the Mayo Clinic, men who are obese are much more likely to have erectile dysfunction than normal-weight men. Cut back on your calories and perform some form of exercise for 30 minutes a day. If you consume 500 less calories a day, you can lose a pound a week. If you exercise, you can lose even more. Examples of exercises you can do include running, weight training, biking, hiking, swimming and fast-paced walking.
Step 8
Relax your mind. Psychological factors can raise your risk for erectile dysfunction, including depression, stress, anxiety, guilt and fear. To calm yourself down, participate in some form of relaxation activity like yoga, meditative breathing, Tai Chi or muscle relaxation.
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