7 Common Myths About Erectile Dysfunction, Debunked

Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 14% of men over the age of 18 are in fair to poor health? 

Because of this fact, each year, the month of June is recognized nationally as Men’s Health Month to not only encourage men to take control of their health and do what they can to make better lifestyle choices but also break stigmas surrounding common men’s health issues that may prevent men from seeking the care they need. 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that can be easily remedied through medical treatments. However, it can be easy to put off seeking that treatment if you feel self-conscious about it. 

If you deal with ED, Paul Chung, MD, FACS, and our team in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, want you to know that you’re not alone in dealing with it and that we offer ways to help you address it and restore your quality of life. 

Let’s debunk some common myths surrounding ED in this month’s blog. 

1. Having trouble in the bedroom once means you have ED

All men have issues getting an erection from time to time. Having difficulty getting or maintaining an erection firm enough for sex once doesn’t mean that you have ED. 

However, if you deal with it regularly enough that it affects your sex life and self-image, don’t wait to seek help. 

2. ED only impacts older men

ED isn’t always directly related to age. While age can certainly play a factor, plenty of men find they can have healthy erectile function into their 80s. 

Even though ED is often associated with men who are over the age of 60 or 70, ED affects 50% of men who are between 40 and 70. In fact, 25% of men who reported issues with erectile function were under the age of 40. 

So, don’t let your age hold you back from seeking sexual health care. 

3. ED is all in your head

While it was previously believed that ED was purely psychological, we now know that a variety of factors can contribute to your risk for ED. These can include having a physical ailment, such as a nerve disease or heart disease, or taking certain medications, such as antihistamines or sleep aids. 

Some common psychological factors that can still put you at risk for erectile dysfunction include depression, anxiety, and relationship stressors. 

4. Having ED means that something is wrong with your penis

Getting an erection that’s satisfactory for sex requires a healthy penis, but it also needs a healthy brain, nerves, and blood vessels, along with good blood flow and optimal testosterone levels. 

Struggling with ED certainly can mean that you have an issue affecting the health of your penis. However, there’s an extensive range of other physical and mental health issues that could be at play. 

5. ED means that you’re not attracted to your partner

Tension in your relationship may contribute to ED, but it’s much more likely that something else is making it difficult for you to have consistent, healthy erections. It can be helpful for you and your partner to work together on finding the root cause and, if you feel comfortable, attend some medical appointments together. 

6. Taking testosterone supplements can cure ED

Low testosterone is a common contributor to ED, but it’s not always the only source. Taking testosterone supplements without consulting a medical professional could be dangerous to your health, so we recommend seeing our team for a full medical workup before diagnosing and treating yourself. 

7. Medications are the only treatment option for ED

Oral medications are the most well-known treatment for ED, but they’re certainly not the only option. 

While these medications can be a good place to start because they’re efficient and convenient, if they don’t work for you, you can try something else. Dr. Chung also offers penile injections and handheld devices, which can give you an erection as needed.

Our team also wants you to know that it’s wise to try and find the underlying cause of your ED (if possible) since health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, could be at play. It’s essential to address these issues before your health is significantly compromised. 

For expert-level and compassionate care for ED, schedule an appointment with Dr. Chung by calling your nearest office location or using our online booking feature today.