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Loading ...What is Impotence?
Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED), is defined as the inability to get or maintain an erection long enough for sexual intercourse.
Causes of ED.
Several different factors can cause ED. It is important to understand that most of these causes are physical, rather than psychological. Nerve damage from uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are two of the most common causes of ED in middle-age men. Neurological diseases can be to blame for the onset of ED as well. Often, prescription medications used to treat these problems can also contribute to ED. In some cases, hormonal imbalances, depression, or drug abuse may result in ED.
How Does Impotence Affect Relationships?
For many couples, sexual intimacy is an important part of the relationship. Thus impotence can put strain on a couple. Without recourse to sex, they don’t know how to maintain their connection. In addition, many people know very little about ED, and few realize that it’s causes are often physical. Many women are likely to blame themselves if their partners suffer from ED. They feel unattractive or unloved, when, in fact, their partner’s feelings toward them have not changed in the least.
How to Deal with ED without Excluding Your Partner
If you are dealing with ED, make sure to include your partner. She may blame herself, and having you reassure her that the problem is not with her can assuage her fear and make it easier for her to help you in dealing with ED. Discuss the condition and possible treatments together. Make sure to maintain physical intimacy.
What to Do If Your Partner Has ED
If your partner has ED, it is very important to be supportive. Many men set great stock by their ability to perform sexually, and so dealing with impotence can be a blow to the ego. Reassure your partner that you still find him attractive, and still want to be with him. Learn more about ED. The more you know, the better you understand what he’s going through and the better you can help him out. Talk to him about it in a factual manner. Look into possible treatment options together. Explore alternative methods of having sex.
ED is often an early warning sign of something seriously wrong in the body. Advise your man to see a doctor to address possible issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes, and offer to go with him, showing that you’re involved and interested. Quiting smoking, Limiting alcohol and daily exercise can all be helpful in dealing with ED.
What Can You Do to Stay Connected?
Talk to each other. Share your feelings. Spend more time together engaging in activities outside the bedroom. Maintain closeness by holding hands, caressing, hugging, kissing, etc. Additionally, there are many ways of being sexual that don’t require an erection. Most bookstores carry books on alternative sexual methods. Take the opportunity to do some exploring. Finally, there are counselors devoted to sexual health. If ED is imposing on your relationship, it may be helpful to talk to an expert.
ED is usually very treatable, but even when it’s not, it doesn’t have to mean an end to your relationship or your love for one another. Instead, it can be a chance to explore new avenues of intimacy and emotional closeness.
Learn more about Erectile Dysfunction here.
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/erectile-dysfunction
http://www.webmd.com/erectile-dysfunction/guide
Written by Hannah Evans for MicroNutra Health™