Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in the Central Coast of California
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects many men at some point in their lives and is more common than you might think. It’s estimated that over 30 million men in the United States alone experience ED at some point in their lives. It can affect men of all ages, although its frequency tends to increase with age.
Erectile dysfunction can have a significant impact on a man’s sexual health and overall well-being. It can lead to feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and even depression. Additionally, ED can affect intimate relationships, leading to communication issues and emotional strain.
It’s important to understand that experiencing ED is not a sign of weakness or inadequacy. It can happen for various reasons, including physical and psychological changes such as hormone changes, medication side effect, and other medical conditions such as spine or nerve problems and diabetes. It is a common part of many men’s lives.
Starting the Conversation:
Many men hesitate to seek help or discuss their concerns due to stigma or embarrassment. However, talking openly with a healthcare provider is the first and essential step towards finding effective solutions.
Lifestyle Changes for Erectile Dysfunction:
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Limit the consumption of alcohol, as excessive drinking can contribute to ED.
- Manage stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques, meditation, or counseling.
- Regular physical activity can improve blood flow and overall health, which may benefit ED.
Treatment Options
Oral Medications (pills)
Medications like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra) are PDE5 inhibitors that enhance blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. These medications cannot be used in conjunction with nitrate medications like nitroglycerin tablets, which are used for treating chest pain. Talk with your health care provider at Urology Associates about obtaining your medication at very cost effective prices even if your insurance does not offer coverage.
Vacuum Erection Devices (VED/Pump)
VEDs are non-invasive devices, essentially external penis pumps, which create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the area to induce an erection. They are often used in conjunction with a penile constriction device which is temporarily applied to the penis to maintain the erection. This can be effective for men with mild ED or used in addition to an oral medication.
Intraurethral Suppositories
Alprostadil (MUSE) is a medication that can be inserted into the urethra using a small applicator, promoting blood flow to the penis. It can be an option for men who do not respond well to other treatments. It is not commonly prescribed as many men experience urethral and penile pain with his treatment.
Intracavernosal Injections
Medications like TriMix are a mixture of several blood flow enhancing medication which are injected directly into the penis prior to sex resulting in an erection. Your health care provider will train you and your partner on how to perform these injections safely and effectively.
Surgery – Penile implants
For men who do not respond to other treatments, penile implants are surgically implanted devices that provide an on-demand erection. There are two main types of devices: inflatable and malleable implants. Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is the more commonly implanted device as it allows for a firm reliable erection during sexual activity and is deflated when not in use. It is a hydraulic device that uses a fluid reservoir (typically placed in the lower abdominal area) and a pump located in the scrotum to inflate and deflate the cylinders located within the shaft of the penis. Malleable devices do not require the dexterity necessary to operate a scrotal pump for an IPP but remain rigid and can be position up for sexual activity and down when not in use. Our urologists utilize penile implants from the two main manufacturers of implants in the US – Coloplast and Boston Scientific/AMS.
The providers at UACC who perform penile implant surgery include Drs. Avallone, Canfield, Dubow, Johnson and Lebed.
Our urologists and physician assistants can help you navigate the treatment options for ED and help you decide which options suit you best.
