7 Mind-Blowing Erectile Dysfunction Myths And Facts

Written by the UPGUYS Editorial Team

Published on June 15, 2022

Did you know that Canadian national surveys found that many students were interested in learning about sex-ed? Parents were equally supportive, with a nearly 90% support rate for education on gender identity. 

Yet, many adolescents, young men, and the elderly are still left in the dark about uncovering erectile dysfunction myths and facts. Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction facts often become misconstrued into erectile dysfunction myths and vice versa, making the topic even more convoluted. 

For example, did you know that erectile dysfunction affects young men too? That's right. It is not just a sexual dysfunction found in elderly men. 

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And there are safe treatments out there. Are you still interested? We have put together a complete guide that will go over seven myths and facts to help you better understand erectile dysfunction.  

In this article, we talk about the following:

1- Stress Can Lead To Erectile Dysfunction

Fact. Stress and other psychological issues (such as relationship problems) can wreak havoc on your sexual intimacy. While many people think that erectile dysfunction is caused by old age or other medical factors, don't neglect your mental health. Here are some other psychological causes of erectile dysfunction:

1. Poor body image/self-esteem
2. Excessive worry about erection quality
3. Financial issues

Depression, anxiety, and high stress are all equally problematic. Studies found these were some of the main causes of erectile dysfunction in young men.

If mental health is your primary factor, your erectile dysfunction treatment plan will look different. You could try couples therapy, counselling, or therapy. Always talk to your doctor first about what appropriate steps you should take.

2- Erectile Dysfunction Is Not Normal

Fact. Erectile dysfunction should not be considered "normal." There are circumstances where the neuropathways are damaged, creating a new normal for someone. In spinal cord injuries, there are several impactful changes in a person's bowel, bladder, and genitals.

There might be difficulties ejaculating, maintaining an erection, or reaching orgasm. Research shows that PDE5 inhibitors are successful for some of these patients. But what about the rest of the population that doesn't have a neurological issue?

Erectile dysfunction is common but treatable. Many men lose out on intimate moments with their partners because they don't seek treatment. 

3- Young Men Are Exempt from Erectile Dysfunction

Myth. While physical causes are less prominent in young men, it does not mean they are exempt. Anyone can have difficulties getting or maintaining an erection, but finding out what works for you might differ.

Approximately 50% of Canadian men have dealt with erectile dysfunction. It could be simple things such as diet and exercise. 

Poor diet and processed foods lead to increased obesity, high cholesterol, and heart disease risks. Even alcohol, largely marketed as a sexual intimacy tool, has its downfalls. 

Approximately 72% of men with alcohol use disorder also have erectile dysfunction. Cutting back on alcohol consumption is one easy way you could start noticing a difference, but here are some others:

1. Soda
2. Frozen meals
3. Deli meats
4. Bacon
5. Pizza
6. White bread
7. Ice cream

While these foods have low nutritional value, it doesn't mean you have to neglect your favourite treats. Instead, be mindful of how much you consume and follow guidelines for regular exercise and adequate vegetable and fruit servings. 

4- Erectile Dysfunction Can Indicate Medical Conditions

Fact. If psychological causes are not the issue, you could have an underlying medical condition. Often, erectile dysfunction is a vascular problem. 

When blood flows is inhibited, it becomes increasingly difficult to get or maintain an erection. Impaired blood flow could indicate a few things, such as: 

1. Diabetes
2. High cholesterol
3. Hypertension
4. Cardiovascular disease
5. Obesity

Heart disease is one of the biggest risks since it can lead to stroke or heart attack. If you suddenly notice changes in your erection quality, your doctor may want to run some panels first and check your overall health. 

Unfortunately, ED treatment becomes more difficult when you start thinking about combining cardiac medications and PDE5 inhibitors. For years, nitrates have been on the contraindicated list for combination with PDE5 inhibitors. 

Experts recommend that you do not combine the two within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the medication. You may need to talk to your doctor about other treatment options if you already have a medical diagnosis. 

This article is written for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided in the articles cannot and should not replace advice from a healthcare professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about any physical or mental health concerns or the risks and benefits of any treatment or medication.

5- Medications Are Dangerous

Myth. When used as prescribed and advised by your physician, medications are extremely helpful for erection quality.

The main medications used are PDE5 inhibitors. This umbrella term includes various types of drugs.

These medications have been on the market for several years and have undergone extensive clinical trials and testing. How do PDE5 inhibitors work?

Essentially, they block the PDE5 enzyme that degrades a protein critical to helping your penile blood vessels relax and dilate. When you take PDE5 inhibitors, your vessels relax, and blood has an easier time moving into the corpus cavernosum and tissues for a better quality erection. 

How can you tell which medication is right for you?

First, PDE5 inhibitors are only given as a prescription medication. You cannot purchase PDE5 inhibitors over the counter, and you should exercise extreme caution if you find a pharmacy that does not ask for a prescription. 

some of these medications are used as needed, and some daily. For more proper, detailed information, contact your healthcare provider, share your medical history and ask for more detailed advice on ED medications.

6- Supplements Cure Erectile Dysfunction

Myth. Supplements do not have the same regulations and stipulations that prescription drugs have. Additionally, if you take supplements without medical supervision, you could increase adverse effects with other medications. 

Dietary supplements can contain harmful additives and active ingredients without the user even knowing.

Without supervision, higher dosages could lead to conditions like priapism, a long-lasting and painful erection. However, if you are looking at natural ways of improving your erection quality, here are some tips. 

1. Try plant-based diets
2. Maintain healthy weight
3. Increase cardio
4. Quit smoking
5. Avoid risky sex

Ultimately, a healthy lifestyle could improve your sexual intimacy! Did you know that even yoga could help? The overall health benefits of yoga include improved circulation, reduced stress, and improved body image. 

Studies are relatively limited regarding erectile dysfunction and yoga. However, one small sample found that patients who participated in a three-month yoga plan reported improvements in:

1. Libido
2. Sexual performance
3. Orgasm
4. Ejaculatory control
5. Erection quality

Men also became less fatigued and had greater sexual and intercourse satisfaction. 

7- Erectile Dysfunction Is More Than Missing an Erection

Fact. Erectile dysfunction is not missing one erection or ruining your night in with a loved one. How can you tell the difference?

Occasional erectile dysfunction occurs 20% of the time and is usually not cause for concern. Once this number rises above 50%, you should talk to a medical provider. 

Additionally, erectile dysfunction is not the same as infertility. You do need an erection for natural reproduction, but low sperm count is often indicative of other issues, like:

1. Age
2. Benign prostatic hyperplasia
3. High blood pressure 
4. Obesity

Many of these conditions can overlap with physical causes of erectile dysfunction, and it is possible to have both. Some of the treatments used to naturally boost sperm volume are identical to erection quality! 

Here are some suggestions:

1. Improve your sleep quality
2. Exercise regularly
3. Hydrate
4. Limit substance use
5. Avoid certain prescriptions
6. Increase healthy fats

Proper hydration also plays a critical role in erection quality. Dehydration can limit blood flow and increase toxins. 

Debunking Erectile Dysfunction Myths and Facts

Have you wondered about the most common erectile dysfunction myths and facts? The important thing to remember is that erectile dysfunction is not something you need to grim and bear. Contact your doctor, and do not feel shy to talk to them and ask for a detailed consultation. Get back your joy cause you deserve it.