Sexual Performance Specialists in South Africa

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction refers to the medical term that is used to refer to the consistent inability to maintain or achieve an erection for sexual intercourse. It occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the penis or nerve damage, both of which can be triggered by a number of factors. This condition is one of the most common problems for men, and the chance for a man to develop the condition increases with age.

While male sexual dysfunction does not cause any health problems, it can make men feel anxious and depressed. It can also cause relationship problems for the couples concerned.

Who is at risk for erectile dysfunction?

A man is at risk if they suffer from:

• Vascular disease
• Neurological disorders

What are the primary causes of sexual dysfunction?

Sexual performance problems are rarely caused by a single factor. Both psychological and biological factors can contribute to the problem. Regardless of the cause, sexual performance can be extremely frustrating to the mood and self-esteem of the people involved.

Physical causes include:

• Heart disease
• Low testosterone levels
• Smoking
• Blood vessel disorders
• Vascular disease
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Hormones problems or imbalances
• Chronic alcohol and drug abuse

Psychological problems include:

• Concern about sexual performance
• Marital or relationship problems
• Depression
• Stress and anxiety

What are the primary types of male sexual dysfunction?

• Erectile dysfunction – patients with this condition are unable to keep or get an erection during the course of sexual intercourse hence leading to low sexual performance
• Low libido(reduced sex desire) – Patients with this condition have a decreased desire for sex
• Peyronie's disease – a curvature of the penis during an erection
• Ejaculation disorders –The most common type Is the premature ejaculation. This is where you ejaculate right at the start of intercourse.
• Retrograde ejaculation – this refers to the reverse flow of semen into the bladder during ejaculation

Diagnosing of sexual dysfunction in males

Physical tests such as:

• Blood test to check testosterone levels
• Blood pressure check
• Rectal exam to check your prostate
• Examination of the penis and testicles

Treating male sexual Dysfunction

• Medications - drugs that help improve sexual function might be prescribed. Example of such drug is sildenafil (Viagra)
• Hormone treatment – include hormone replacement therapies that can be administered through injections
• Penile Implants – vacuum devices and implants that help some with erectile dysfunction
• Penis prosthesis surgery – this surgery implants an inflatable device into the penis that can be pumped out to cause an erection
• Lifestyle changes – to maintain a healthy life and refraining from the use of substances that cause harm to the body such as smoking and excessive alcohol intake.
• Psychological therapy – can be addressed by seeking help from a counselor