It’s Time to Have a Frank Discussion with Your Partner About Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. These variations make defining ED and estimating its incidence difficult. Estimates range from 15 million to 30 million, depending on the definition used.

Erectile dysfunction is a sensitive subject and most men would rather avoid talking to their significant other if and when they do experience it. But erectile dysfunction is a serious problem that should be discussed with your spouse or lover so that you’ll know how and which treatment options are right for you.

You might be in one of two situations. Either your lover has erectile dysfunction, and you want to talk tot him about it – or you have the problem and would like to talk to your partner about it. You need to know how to handle either situation.

How to talk to your partner if he suffers from erectile dysfunction (ED):

• Be sensitive. Let your partner know in a sensitive and understanding manner that you want to help him deal with his problem. Offer to go to the doctor with him so that he’ll know the level of your concern and eagerness to work with him to resolve his erectile dysfunction problem both physically and emotionally.
• Never blame him. Don’t blame your lover for his inability to get and maintain an erection. Don’t even tease him about it. The psychological impact on him may be devastating
• Approach him with knowledge. Let him know that many other men also suffer from erectile dysfunction and that treatment options are readily available.

How to talk to your partner if you suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED):

• Don’t rush into a discussion. Approach the subject of your sex life at a time when you aren’t stressed or in the middle of an argument. And, make sure you have the time and privacy you’ll need to discuss the problem for as long as you need to.
• Do your Research and be ready with suggestions. There is so much information available about erectile dysfunction that you should be able to research causes and treatments that might be right for the two of you.
• Tell your lover how important this problem is to you. Don’t diminish the effects that erectile dysfunction has had on your relationship.

No matter which side of the problem you’re on, be sure that you express how you feel to the other person. You may be angry, sad, frustrated or hurt about this difficulty in your relationship.  However, when you talk openly and continue to be honest with each other, together you can decide on the best course of action for both of you.

Advances in suppositories, injectable medications, implants, and vacuum devices have expanded the options for men seeking treatment for ED. These advances have also helped increase the number of men seeking treatment. Gene therapy for ED is now being tested in several centers and may offer a long-lasting therapeutic approach for ED.

For More Information:

American Urological Association (AUA)
1000 Corporate Boulevard
Linthicum, MD 21090
Phone: 1–866–RING–AUA (746–4282) or 410–689–3700
Fax: 410–689–3800
Email: aua@auanet.org
Internet: www.auanet.org
www.urologyhealth.org

AUA can refer you to a urologist in your area.

Related posts:

1. What Causes Male Impotence?