Use it or lose it:

Wednesday, 15th June 2011

Researchers say more sex means less erectile dysfunction

The advice for older men from menshealth.ie for those who want to preserve their sexual function is to have sex and have it often as erections make erections! In a study that followed nearly 1,000 older men for five years*, researchers found that those who were regularly having sex at the start of the study were at lower risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) by the study's end. In fact, the more often the men had sex, the lower their ED risk. The implication, say the researchers, is that men should be encouraged to stay sexually active, or as they say on the streets, use it or lose it!

In fact these same researchers found the rates of erectile dysfunction for those who had sex compared to those who did not have sex almost five times higher:

- Less than once per week: 79 cases per 1000 men
- Once per week: 32 cases per 1000 men
- More than three times per week: 16 cases per 1000 men

Dr. Pearse Phelan, Medical Director of Dublin Medical Centre, the pioneering men's health clinic explains, "Erectile dysfunction - when a man finds it difficult to get and maintain an erection - is a common medical complaint affecting up to 50 per cent of men between 40 and 70. In men aged 70 and above this increases to about seven in 10 men. In younger men the problem is often, but by no means always, the result of psychological factors. In older men however, narrowing of blood vessels that supply the blood to the penis and/or infrequency of sexual arousal or activity are the most common culprits. Male sexual disorders can take many forms and vary in severity but their consequences can have far-reaching effects for the men themselves, as well as their partners. Fortunately modern treatments for this distressing condition are excellent and with early intervention the vast majority of patients will do very well. Without treatment erection problems will not go away by themselves - in fact, they will probably get worse. "

A man's toolbox is his castle

Those experiencing Erectile Dysfunction should have faith: This disorder is common and treatable. Most men would rather not let the world know of their frustrations, but that doesn't mean it's not happening. It simply means that many men are putting up with or avoiding the problem, rather than confronting it and dealing with it. The underlying causes of erectile problems are often misunderstood and can lead to a cycle of frustration and anxiety.

"Regular intercourse has an important role in preserving erectile function especially in older men," continued Dr Phelan. "There are obvious comparisons with going regularly to the gym and maintaining strong muscles as a result. The tide is undoubtedly changing, but there are still many who find it very hard to face up to the fact that they have a problem. This is a pity as they are missing out on the opportunity to have very effective treatment. "

The advice from menshealth.ie is to get help early for the best outcome. When you attend for an appointment at the Dublin Medical Centre you will be seen by a doctor who specializes in men's health. After taking your medical history and talking with you, the doctor will establish the exact nature of the problem. He will then perform a complete medical examination and arrange relevant blood tests if required to complete his diagnosis so that treatment can begin.

For more information on erectile dysfunction / impotence and premature ejaculation visit http://www.menshealth.ie

Fortunately modern treatments for this distressing condition are excellent and with early intervention the vast majority of patients will do very well.