Words: Arthur Tam
Erectile Dysfunction will affect all us boys at one point of time or another, so it’s a good idea to stay informed and brush away common misconception. When it comes to treating any disease, its best to tackle it in straightforward fashion. I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Francois Fong, who provided some enlightening details surrounding ED.

First off, is the relationship between sex and penis function, “ Erectile dysfunction is a bit of a chicken and the egg paradox. Does lack of sexual activity lead to ED, or is it because of ED that there is lower sexual activity?” says Fong. Studies cannot show a conclusive causal relationship; however, studies have shown that decreased sexual activity does increase the chances of ED- if you don’t use it you lose it. The good doctor does recommend a healthy dose of sex, but the problem is, not everyone has a compatible partner. But don’t fret-simply masturbate. Think of every ejaculation as a prostate cleansing. When semen passes your prostate, it actually kills off unwanted bacteria that might cause infection. “ I would say, masturbate two to three times a week, to stay regular,” says Fong.

Keeping a healthy prostate is crucial for preventing ED. Prostate infections increase your chances of getting ED. Frequent urination, is a symptom of prostate infection, so don’t let it go unchecked. Make sure your doctor does a urine, blood, and semen culture to see if you have an infection. An infection can usually be cured with a dose of antibiotics. Bottoms should be even more diligent when it comes to their prostate health. Increase of anal sex can lead to haemorrhoids, which are prone to tearing, opening a pathway for bacteria to enter the blood stream infecting the prostate. “Gay men actually have a higher rate of prostate infection than straight men, which could be because of anal sex, but studies are inconclusive,” says Fong. What’s ultimately important is for all men, gay or straight to go in for a check up if there is ever a sign of ED. Shame and embarrassment is a small price to pay compared to a lifetime of sexual complications.

Other than the physical reasons that can onset ED, there are psychological reasons that can contribute to the condition. For example, “ Usually when men have been out of a relationship for 6 months or longer, it can cause anxiety and lack of confidence. When men resume sexual activity with a new partner, there may be initial complications,” says Fong. Basically, stress can be a major factor for penis function and performance. If a guy is tired and worn out, chances are that his erection won’t be that strong.

It’s important for your doctor to assess whether your condition is a physical issue, a psychological issue, or a combination for both. For young men, the main cause for ED is psychological stress and relationship stress. For older men, ED can be caused by hormonal changes or deteriorating vascular function. Luckily there are pills to take to solve some of the complications of aging. Now, you can pop a Cialis, which lasts 36 hours, with few side effects, and can be taken in combination with just about anything, including alcohol. Ease your way in and have a little more fun arousing your partner during foreplay. With 36 hours, all men will have enough time to pre party and get into their sexual groove before sex, without checking your watch.

A common misconception surrounding ED is it’s only a problem for older men, but that story is not entirely true. Age comes with health complications, which is true, but older men can still have healthy erections if they maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to have regular sex. Problem is, older men don’t engage in as much sexual activity because of social stigma or lack of sexual partner. Ultimately, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to keep a steady flow of blood circulating to your penis. If complications still occur, consult a doctor because many cases of ED are temporary.