For most men, erectile dysfunction is a chronic condition that can be successfully managed. But if you cannot have a satisfactory erection for more than six months, you should consult your doctor.
In addition, if your erectile dysfunction is caused by another health problem, such as diabetes or low testosterone levels, it may require treatment with medication or surgical intervention. Here are some signs that you may be dealing with erectile dysfunction:
1. Difficulty Maintaining or Getting an Erection at All
The inability to get an erection may be caused by anxiety or stress. Still, it can also indicate other problems with your sexual health, such as nerve damage due to diabetes or anemia.
In addition, some men have difficulty keeping an erection after ejaculating because their blood vessels relax too soon after orgasm, and blood flow returns to normal due to decreased stimulation by their partner’s body. It often happens after premature ejaculation (PE) repeatedly occurs over time and causes desensitization of nerve endings in the penis that control erection strength and duration.
2. Loss of Sex Drive (Libido)
Low libido isn’t the same as erectile dysfunction, but it can be a symptom of low testosterone in men — and a sign that there’s something wrong with your body’s ability to produce and use testosterone. If you’re having trouble getting an erection and have noticed a drop in your sex drive and other symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested for low testosterone.
3. Ejaculation Disorder
A common feature of male sexual dysfunction is premature ejaculation (PE). Premature ejaculation is when a man reaches orgasm before he and his partner want him to. It can range from occurring during every sexual encounter to happening only occasionally after a long period without sexual activity or stimulation. It can also be associated with pain during intercourse or masturbation.
It’s not the same as having a short refractory period (the time it takes for your body to recover from an orgasm so that you can have another), but it can make sex less satisfying for both partners. Premature ejaculation is considered a sexual dysfunction because it interferes with sexual pleasure and causes distress for both partners.
4. Pain During Sex
If your partner says that sex is painful, it could be a sign of erectile dysfunction. Painful intercourse is often the result of a relationship or life problems, such as stress or depression. But it can also be a sign of erectile dysfunction. Your doctor may be able to address the pain with erectile dysfunction medication or surgery. But if you’re experiencing temporary pain during sex, try these solutions first:
Try different sexual positions. If one position is uncomfortable, try another — see what feels best for both of you. You might also try using lubricant if there’s not enough natural moisture where it counts.
Use a lubricant if needed. Lubricants help reduce friction and make sex more comfortable for both partners. They’re especially helpful if you have ED but not for other reasons (for example, if you’re young and healthy). Lubricants can also help increase arousal and make it easier to climax faster than usual — which can sometimes make ED less noticeable during sex itself.
Talk with your partner about how they feel about your body and what makes them feel sexy about themselves in turn!
5. Loss of Sensation in Your Penis or Testicles
If you experience numbness during sex, it may be a sign of ED. It occurs when there is a problem with nerves that run from your brain to your groin area. The loss of sensation can cause painless erections or painful ones. It can also make it difficult to ejaculate during sex.
The Bottom Line
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to develop or maintain an erection of the penis during sexual activity. Many men experience problems getting and maintaining an erection when they are under stress. However, erectile problems can also signify an underlying condition that needs treatment.
