Impotency, also known as erectile dysfunction or ED, is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. According to the Cleveland Clinic, if you are unable to get and keep an erection 20 percent of the time, it is not unusual and treatment is not usually required. However, if it happens 50 percent of the time, it typically indicates a problem requiring some kind of treatment. Although impotency is a sensitive topic, it is important to talk with your doctor, who can determine the underlying cause and begin treatment if necessary.
Step 1
Discuss mental health concerns with your doctor. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or having relationship issues, this could be the cause of your ED. Your doctor may recommend counseling to help you cope with whatever is making you feel this way.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about the use of oral medication. According to MayoClinic.com, Sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil are drugs known to relax the muscles in the penis and enable blood flow. Your doctor will prescribe these medications if he feels you are a good candidate for oral drug therapy.
Step 3
Insert medication using a transurethral method known as MUSE, which can be done at home. Using a special applicator, the medication alprostadil is inserted directly into the opening of the penis and absorbed into the bloodstream. This causes muscles to relax and blood to flow into the penis. Ask your doctor if this method is right for you.
Step 4
Discuss the use of self-injected medication with your doctor. A tiny needle is used to inject medication into the side of the penis, which allows better blood flow. Common drugs utilized in this method are alprostadil, papaverine and phentolamine. Your doctor can instruct you on how to perform these injections at home.
Step 5
Use a vacuum constricted device. Your doctor might recommend this option if he feels you are not a good candidate for drug therapy. With this method, a tube is placed over the penis and a vacuum is created to pull blood into the penis. Ask your doctor if this at-home method is right for you.
Step 6
Talk with your doctor about surgical options such as penile implants, if other treatments are not working. During this surgery, a device is placed into the penis that you will be able to inflate yourself to cause an erection.
Tips and Warnings
- Discuss erectile dysfunction with your sexual partner openly and honestly.
- Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss episodes of erectile dysfunction without delay.
