13 June 2024 , 12:50
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A GP has debunked four common myths about erectile dysfunction - highlighting that it affects around half of British men aged 40 or above.
Dr Donald Grant, a GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, said during Men's Health Week: "Erectile dysfunction (ED) myths are damaging as it creates a wealth of misinformation and stigma surrounding the common condition. For men, it's vital to understand the common misconceptions and recognise that ED is a medical issue that can be addressed with proper diagnosis and treatment."
Erectile dysfunction is linked to attraction
He clarified a major misunderstanding regarding ED, saying: "One massively frequent misconception with ED is the notion that the condition is directly linked to sexual arousal. Having to take Viagra or other treatments doesn't necessarily mean people aren't sexually attracted to their partner, instead, the condition makes remaining stimulated an impossible task.
"ED is a condition and one that's not linked to any sort of sexual attraction to a specific individual, it's a bodily function that's not behaving correctly. By avoiding this misinformation, people can better comprehend the condition and understand when they require professional treatment."
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Erectile dysfunction only happens to old men
He also tackled the age-related myth about ED, reports Bristol Live. Dr Grant said: "While erectile dysfunction is more common among the older population, it's not strictly limited to a particular generation of individuals. In fact, it's much more prevalent among middle-aged men than most people might believe, although the risk does steadily increase for those over 70."
"This stigma is particularly dangerous and could lead to younger men rejecting the idea that they may be suffering from the condition. This Men's Health Week it's vital to promote relevant information about ED to further educate young men."
ED is when you can never achieve an erection
"A common myth about erectile dysfunction is that it only applies if you consistently have erection issues. This is purely false, erectile dysfunction affects men in a range of ways, including not being able to achieve any sort of erection, not being able to maintain one or the erection not being strong enough to engage in sexual intercourse."
"Unfortunately, all three are signs of the condition and require professional treatment, it's crucial to seek professional advice should you be suffering from these symptoms during sexual activity."
Viagra will give you an erection until it wears off
"The myth that ED treatments such as Viagra give you a constant erection until it leaves your system is a ridiculous claim that hasn't been helped by pop culture. Alongside treatment, men will still require sexual stimulation to achieve and maintain an erection."
"Overall, no man should feel embarrassed or ashamed about requiring treatment for ED, as we age, the likelihood of our body malfunctioning increases, with the risk of erectile dysfunction growing alongside other conditions."
"ED should be treated like any other condition with treatment and professional advice being the priority to ensure substantial support. As always it's important to take stock of all our bodily functions to promote well-being and emphasise the importance of maintaining health."
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