Erectile dysfunction, previously known as impotence, is characterized by a man's inability to get and maintain an erection during sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction (ED) covers a variety of symptoms that range from an inability to get or sustain an erection to partial or occasional bouts of dysfunction. Doctors at the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) report that men should begin work to overcome ED with the least invasive treatments.
Step 1
Look at various lifestyle changes that could improve your ability to maintain an erection. Doctors at the NKUDIC report that quitting smoking, losing weight and exercising more often can relieve the symptoms of ED.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking and if they could be causing the ED. Some prescriptions such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medication, antihistamines, diuretics and chemotherapy can contribute to sexual dysfunction, report doctors at the Cleveland Clinic. The doctor may be able to switch your prescription, find an alternative drug or lower the dosage.
Step 3
Get into counseling. Anxiety about not being able to hold an erection creates a vicious cycle for men who have experienced occasional ED, increasing the risk of having it happen again. NKUDIC doctors report that psychotherapy can help relieve anxiety. Sexual therapy with a partner can offer techniques and ideas to couples that also can help improve intimacy and stimulation.
Step 4
Take a pill that is used to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra are drugs that enhance the effects of nitrous oxide that increases blood flow to the penis and helps to smooth the muscles in the penis. The ED treatments also can be injected into the penis or inserted into the urethra through the tip of the penis.
Step 5
Try a mechanical pump to draw the blood into the sex organ. You place your flaccid penis in a plastic cylinder and an elastic band around the base of penis. Pump by pulling air up into the chamber and leave the elastic in place to prevent blood from flowing back out during sex.
Tips and Warnings
- Get a physical to determine if you have any other disorder that's contributing to the ED. Common underlying conditions can include heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and artheriosclerosis, report Mayo Clinic doctors. Warning
- Drugs such as heroin, marijuana, barbiturates and methadone can cause ED. Additionally; alcohol consumption can affect sexual performance, report Cleveland Clinic doctors.
Things You'll Need
- ED medication
- Mechanical pump
