Is my ED physical or psychological?

Erectile dysfunction is extremely common. Approximately 50% of Canadian men over age 40 experience ED symptoms. That percentage only increases with age, and many cases go unreported entirely.

Many suffer in silence, feeling ashamed or self-conscious about their sexual health challenges. Yet the conversation is shifting.

Public awareness of erectile dysfunction is increasing. Our understanding of the causes of erectile dysfunction is improving. More people desire emotionally available partners who take charge of their physical and mental health.

Erectile dysfunction is treatable and most men can return to healthy sexual function. There are potential options to treat ED that may be perfect for you. You can start by asking yourself one question:

Physical Erectile Dysfunction Causes

There are likely biological factors at play if you cannot consistently achieve and maintain an erection. Age is a leading cause. Erectile dysfunction commonly occurs from inadequate blood flow to the penis or poor nerve signalling. Potential biological causes and risk factors include:

Vascular issues, which account for up to 70% of cases:
- High cholesterol and the buildup of arterial plaque
- High blood pressure/hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia
- Diabetes
Low testosterone levels
Medication side effects (antidepressants, antihistamines, medications for high blood pressure, and more)
Prostate treatments/prostatectomy
Pelvis or spinal cord injury or surgery
Obesity
Lifestyle choices:
- Chronic substance abuse (alcohol, drugs)
- Smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet and blood sugar control
- Medical conditions or medical history

Erectile dysfunction is not a reflection of masculinity or sexual prowess. You may require medical treatments to treat erectile dysfunction. ED treatment has advanced beyond prescription drugs. Finding out the cause of your ED can be as simple as booking a consultation today. Let’s work together to restore your erectile function and

Psychological Erectile Dysfunction Causes

It is important to consider the mental and emotional aspects of erectile dysfunction. These factors directly affect your ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
The following can contribute to erectile dysfunction:

Depression or depressed mood
Anxiety
Long-term stress
Performance anxiety
Low self-confidence or negative self-talk
Relationship challenges
Lack of excitement
Negative feelings around sex
Regular pornography use
Difficult sexual history

The truth is that psychological contributors to ED are different for everyone. But how do you know if your ED is psychological?

Can you only manage erectile function under certain circumstances, such as during masturbation? Have you ruled out physical causes with a healthcare professional? If either or both of these are true, you may have psychological erectile dysfunction.

In most cases, psychological factors act alongside biological ones to perpetuate ED symptoms. Addressing these factors is crucial to treat ED.

The Mind and Body Connection

Your physical, mental and emotional health are tightly linked. For example, physical ED symptoms may result in feelings of frustration or shame.

These feelings then serve to reinforce your physical dysfunction, fueling a cycle. Depression or anxiety can affect your biological balance, contributing to physical erectile challenges. Your mental health is a major predictive factor for your sexual function.

Taking a holistic approach is always recommended for treating erectile dysfunction. Pollock Clinics can help uncover the obstacles between you and your performance. Our team can diagnose erectile dysfunction and tailor treatments to your specific needs. We can point you in the right direction to combat your physical or psychological factors for ED.

Tips for Treating Erectile Dysfunction

Treating erectile dysfunction is possible. You are not alone or limited to prescription drugs. It is time to retake control of your health by reaching out for support and learning to address your ED head-on.

Pollock Clinics can help. Our team of clinical experts meets with you directly and discreetly. We work together and build a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.

Become the best version of you: book your consultation today or call our clinic directly at (604) 717-6200.

Is my ED physical or psychological?

Physical Erectile Dysfunction Causes

Psychological Erectile Dysfunction Causes

The Mind and Body Connection

Tips for Treating Erectile Dysfunction

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