Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence occurs when a man is unable to get and keep an erection firm enough for intercourse. Worldwide, an estimated 52% of men suffer from ED. In Malaysia, an estimated 60% of men are affected by ED.¹

How is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?

Depending on the cause of your erectile dysfunction, your doctor will use different treatment methods.

Medication

These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps maintain an erection. They are taken orally, typically 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. [2]

Medication- continued

Another treatment option for ED is a class of medications called vasodilators. This medication is administered either as an injection directly into the penis or as a suppository placed in the urethra. It works similarly to PDE 5 inhibitors, it increases the blood flow to the penis, therefore maintaining an erection.  [2]

Always speak to your doctor about these medications.

Vacuum ErectIon Pumps

A vacuum erection pump uses vacuum suction to draw blood to the penis. It consists of a plastic cylinder, a pump and a constriction ring. The cylinder is placed on the penis, and the pump is used to create a vacuum, which causes blood to flow into the penis, causing an erection. [3]

 Physical therapy – Kegel Exercises

In addition to regular aerobic exercise, Kegel exercises help strengthen your pelvic muscles.  One example of Kegel exercise is as follows [4]:

1. Identify your pelvic floor muscles. To do this, stop peeing midstream. The muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles.
2. Now that you know where these muscles are, contract them for 3 seconds. Then release them for 3 seconds.
3. Repeat this exercise 10 times in a row, three times per day.

Always talk to a doctor before starting any exercises for your medical condition.

Lifestyle changes

For psychological causes of ED, therapy and counselling may help. A therapist helps men in discovering any underlying emotional or psychological issues tributing to ED. [5]

The following psychological factors may contribute to ED [5]:

- Anxiety

- Depression

- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

References:

1. Malaysia Urological Association and MEDACT. Clinical Practice Guide in Erectile Dysfunction. 2000.
2. Yetman, D. (2022, July 15). PDE5 inhibitors: Types, how they work, what they cost. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/pde5-inhibitors#foods-with-pde-5-inhibitors
3. Cleveland Clinic . (2020, November 30). Vacuum Constriction Devices. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/10053-vacuum-constriction-devices#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20vacuum%20constriction,helps%20to%20maintain%20the%20erection.
4. Mayo Clinic . (2022, September 8). Kegel exercises for men: Understand the benefits. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/kegel-exercises-for-men/art-20045074#:~:text=Tighten%20your%20pelvic%20floor%20muscles,Maintain%20your%20focus.
5. Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 29). Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355782

For further information please contact your healthcare professional. This is an educational program for disease awareness supported by:

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