Erectile dysfunction is generally recognized as an inability to maintain an erection throughout intercourse. It is often misunderstood and mischaracterized, and here are some of the biggest myths about ED.
ED Is Always the Same
Erectile dysfunction isn’t just one particular problem as it relates to the penis. Some men with ED don’t have a problem achieving an erection, however they cannot maintain it for the duration of sex. It’s also possible to not have an erection hard enough to successfully penetrate during intercourse. Other men might not be able to achieve an erection at all. The point is, although sufferers of ED might experience similar symptoms, everyone’s case is different.
Erectile Dysfunction Means Something is Wrong With the Penis
Often times, ED is the result of a mental condition, a biological condition, or some combination of the two. Just because a lack of an erection is occurring doesn’t necessarily mean that the penis is to blame. At the same time, it is possible for ED to be completely unrelated to the mental state. It could be the sole result of blood vessels in the penis not allowing enough blood to flow through. It could be a deeper condition such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. There are different treatments for different cases of ED.
ED Is a Normal Part of Aging
Although a reduction in testosterone is part of the normal aging process for males, this may or may not be the underlying cause for ED. In fact, ED is not limited to older men at all. It’s true that rates of ED are higher among older men because of a greater variety of preexisting medical conditions, but younger men can suffer from erectile dysfunction as well. This stems back to the fact ED can be the result of a number of different problems that are occurring within the body. Although intercourse might be more physically demanding, there is no reason that it can’t be a part of life at any age.