Atlast

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs in about 45% of men over the age of 40. Obviously, the first question to ask is if there is any cause that know of. For example, is he particularly stressed or worried something or has he recently had a traumatic event in his life?

Stress, including financial worries, retrenchment, bereavement, post traumatic stress syndrome, anxiety and depression, play havoc with sexual performance.

Some drugs, including treatment for hypertension (blood pressure) and depression can also affect the ability to get and maintain an erection. Excessive alcohol consumption, often used to counteract stress, also causes problems with sexual performance.

Secondly, you should encourage him to get a complete physical checkup. It has been shown that over 70% of men with ED have an underlying medical problem. The checkup should include blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol measurements as well as a general physical including a prostate check. Any medication that he is taking should also be reviewed to see whether it has any side effects on sexual performance.( Perhaps you should accompany him or speak to the doctor about your concerns before consultation). The doctor will be able to assess your husband’s health and deal with any problems.

Possibly, a tablet such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra may be prescribed by the doctor. These medications belong to the PDE5 inhibitors which work by allowing the blood to flow into the penis with normal sexual stimulation. This gives a normal erection and thus allows normal sexual activity.

Please do not leave the situation as it is. The South Africa Sexual Health Association has a help line on 0860 100 262, where you or your husband can get advice and referral to a doctor in your area if you don’t want to see your own GP. Sometimes men are very embarrassed to talk about this but feel comfortable to talk on the phone or an expert about the problem.