Erectile Dysfunction

The World Health Organization defines the Erectile Dysfunction as: "The persistent or recurrent inability to attain and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse”.

Between 12% and 19% of Spanish men between 25-70 years suffer erectile dysfunction.

In most cases, it is produced by arterial insufficiency or poor blood inflow in the penis and this disorder can be treated with oral medication. Drug administration can be made orally (tablets), in the urethra or by direct injection (intracavernosally). In more severe cases, patients can be treated with a vacuum device or with the surgical insertion of an internal penile prosthesis.

Factors influencing erection

Lifestyle:

• Alcohol: In the long term, excessive consumption can cause nerve damage, liver and hormonal imbalance.
• Sedentary life: Lack of regular exercise can lead to erectile dysfunction.
• Tobacco: Tobacco can also damage the arteries of the penis.

Physical causes:

• Vascular disorders: Atherosclerosis, hypertension.
• Diabetes: Two out of three men with diabetes can develop ED.
• Neurological diseases: Spinal cord injuries and nerve degeneration.
• Hormonal problems: Low levels of hormones like testosterone.
• Surgery: Surgery at the colon, rectum or prostate cancer and radiation therapy in the pelvis area can damage nerves and blood vessels.
• Trauma: Spinal cord damage and pelvic fractures.
• Medication side effects: There are many medications that can have as a possible side effect of ED.

Psychological causes:
(may appear alone or in combination)

• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression
• Couple troubles