One in ten men has an issue related to sex. While sexual dysfunction can affect men of all ages, it is increasingly common in men over 40. A sexually-related issue can be a sign of a more serious health problem and should be investigated by a medical professional.
Erectile Dysfunction
Many men fail to develop or maintain an erection from time to time, but if it becomes a frequent problem (more than 25% of the time) it may be a sign of Erectile dysfunction (ED). Erectile dysfunction can be a distressing condition and can be caused by many physical, hormonal, or emotional factors. ED is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse. Sexual arousal in men is a complex process involving the brain, nerves, hormones, emotions, muscles, and blood vessels. When there is a problem in any of these areas, it can lead to erectile dysfunction. Cardiac and circulatory problems, neurological and nerve disorders, endocrine disorders, certain medications, and lifestyle and psychological factors can also cause or contribute to ED.
Ejaculation Problems
Premature ejaculation is when a man ejaculates too quickly and without control before or too soon after penetration The exact cause of premature ejaculation is not completely understood but it is believed that stress, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems can cause the condition, the same way that physical factors such as prostate or thyroid problems do.
Other types of ejaculation problems include inhibited or delayed ejaculation (ejaculation that does not happen or takes a very long time) and retrograde ejaculation (when at orgasm, semen is forced back into the bladder rather than out through the end of the penis) but these are less commonly known sexual problems of men.
Low Libido
Low libido means reduced sexual desire. The condition is often linked to low levels of the male hormone testosterone – a sex hormone produced in the testicles. Low testosterone (Low-T) is a deficiency, or the low production, of testosterone which can be caused by many factors such as age, a medical condition, infection, obesity, an injury to the testicles, or hormonal condition. When a man does not produce enough testosterone, it can lead to a low sex drive, sexual dysfunction, changes in mood (irritability, symptoms of depression), fatigue or reduced energy, low bone density, and weight gain. Low libido may also be caused by health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, certain medications, or a psychological problem such as depression, stress, or anxiety.
Peyronie’s disease
Peyronie’s disease is a condition that results from fibrous scar tissue, known as plaque, to develop under the skin of the penis that can cause the shaft to curve, particularly during erections. Most men with this condition can still have sexual intercourse, but for some, it can be painful and may cause erectile dysfunction, making it more difficult to engage in fulfilling sexual relations. The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is not completely understood, but a repeated injury to the penis either through sex, athletic activity, or an accident, can lead to the malformation of scar tissue in some men.
Men’s Sexual Health Care in Edmonds, Washington
There are a number of treatments available to successfully treat conditions such as erectile dysfunction and Peyronies disease. If you are experiencing a sexual health problem, talk to the professionals at Affirm Clinic. We are dedicated to helping men restore their virility and their ability to perform sexually.
If you have any questions about our men’s health services, call our office in Edmonds, Washington today at (206) 231-6000 or you can schedule an appointment using our secure online appointment request form. We, at Affirm, welcome your call and look forward to serving you.