Erectile Dysfunction (the inability to achieve and then maintain an erection) and Shrinkage Dysfunction (the gradual diminishing in size of the penis) are fairly common among men. Frequently, however, these embarrassing maladies can be prevented simply by choosing to sustain an active, healthy lifestyle.

What is shrinkage/ed?

Shrinkage is often characterized by a decrease in penis size. The decrease is usually gradual and may also coincide with erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction occurs when a man is either unable to get an erection, or unable to hold erection to the level or duration required to have intercourse.

An erection begins with a mental trigger in the brain. Arousal, caused either mentally or physically, sends a signal to the body to prepare for sexual activity. The body responds by sending blood to the penis. The blood both of two structures on either side of the penis, causing the penis to engorge. When the penis is filled to capacity and becomes rigid, an erection has been achieved.

When the penis cannot fill completely or at all with blood, intercourse becomes difficult or even impossible.

What are the causes?

A recent study indicated that a healthy lifestyle may be the key to keeping your sexual health. Nearly 90% of men with reported cases of erectile difficulties had at least one major health risk factor in their lifestyles. Half of all men with diabetes reported trouble when attempting sexual activity, making them three times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction than men without. Men who reported a lot of sedentary behavior also had a higher risk of developing ED than men who led an active life. Poor diets, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption also played a role. Frequent abuse of alcohol, along with the use of anabolic steroids, is one of the most common causes of penis shrinkage.

ED and shrinkage can also be caused by low levels of testosterone. While testosterone production naturally decrease with age, it’s important to make healthy choices to keep levels within a normal range, thereby circumventing severe health problems.

What are my options?

If ED/shrinkage has gone too far, the most severe options may be highly unpleasant. Surgery involves implanting either a flexible rod into the penis that allows it to be tucked away when not in use, or inflatable implants that can be pumped full before intercourse. Others use a vacuum device, which works by creating a vacuum around the penis and then using the pressure to force blood into the penis. At that point, a band would be secured around the base of the penis to prevent the blood from flowing back into the rest of the body during intercourse.

Clearly, it would be preferable to maintain or enhance sexual performance simply by making wise, healthy choices! A good diet free of excessive alcohol or tobacco use, coupled with an active lifestyle, can go a long way. The use of products specifically designed to promote sexual health can also help.