The lowdown on ED
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition where you have trouble getting or keeping an erection, affecting satisfaction when it comes to sex and intimacy between the sheets.
Who does it affect?
ED impacts up to 1 in 4 men over 18 and half of men over 40.
While it’s incredibly common, ED can be difficult to open up about and can impact your quality of life and mental health. It puts relationships under pressure, making it more difficult to connect intimately.
What causes ED?
Health issues that affect blood flow, like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or cardiovascular disease, can be triggers for ED, as can hormonal issues or injuries. Some common medications, like antidepressants or blood pressure tablets, can cause or exacerbate it.
While the risk increases with age, 25 percent of men over 18 regularly experience ED. Mild-to-moderate symptoms often go undetected and untreated, especially in younger men, who are more likely to experience anxiety or depression, which affect sexual performance. Smoking, alcohol or drug use, diet and physical inactivity can also affect erectile health.
Affecting more than the bedroom
ED symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some men have occasional trouble, while others may not be able to get an erection at all.
It can lead to other issues, such as:
- Low self-esteem and confidence
- Mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression
- Strained relationships
- Trouble forming emotional bonds with partners
