silhouetted hands pointing at the silhouette of a man

Erectile Dysfunction
and the Stigma

Advances in Treatment and Changing Perspectives

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Peyronie's Disease (PD) are common men's health issues that have long been surrounded by stigma and secrecy.

This article explores the reasons behind this stigma. It highlights recent clinical studies and advancements in treatment options that are helping men overcome these conditions while also challenging the social taboos associated with them.

 

 

 

 

a pensive older man looking out of a window with a hand to his head

So, why the Stigma?

Why is there such a stigma about ED, and why don't men openly discuss their erection problems with their friends and family?

ED and PD are often concealed due to the fear and shame associated with them and the deep-seated fear to discuss it. Just as with HIV/AIDS in the past, men with these conditions may suffer in silence. Unlike life-threatening illnesses, ED and PD can be viewed as emasculating, leading many men to avoid discussing their issues openly.

 

 

 

 

a pensive man sitting crouched to the ground outdoors

ED and The Masculinity Factor

For many men, the ability to have an erection is closely tied to their sense of masculinity and sexual prowess. Society, regardless of cultural background, perpetuates these ideals.

From a young age, boys are encouraged to be tough and not show vulnerability. As they enter puberty, peer pressure and the need to be sexually active further amplify these notions.

Research with more than 26,000 people in 28 countries revealed that, at least in the group aged 40 – 80 years of age, 83% of men and 63% of women described sexual intercourse as “extremely,” “very,” or “moderately” important. ED is acknowledged to carry negative psychological impact, and patients with ED suffer from numerous psychological problems including depression, feelings of worthlessness, loss of self-esteem, and loss of concentration.

 

 

 

 

 

Breaking the Stigma Of ED

Thankfully, social attitudes are evolving for the best, and the stigma surrounding ED and PD is gradually diminishing. Recognising that these conditions are common is the first step in changing perceptions.

 

 

an illustration displaying the close-up of a shockwave therapy treatment for erectile dysfunction

Advanced Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

MansMatters offers Extra Corporeal Focused Shockwave Therapy, a non-invasive treatment that avoids the surgeon's knife and the pain associated with it. To achieve an erection the penis requires an increased blood flow, and shockwave therapy is designed to enhance this process. The therapy stimulates the growth of blood vessels in the penis and clears any blockages, ultimately improving the quality of erections for many men.

Focused shockwave therapy is not the only revolutionary non-invasive treatment we provide though. Our other treatment procedures such as extracorporeal magnetotransduction therapy, NanoVi and FMS, all are extremely effective in treating various male sexual issues. All of these treatments are fully compatible with shockwave therapy and often times we utilise multiple treatments at once to gain maximum efficacy.

 

 

 

 

an Extracorporeal MagnetoTransduction Therapy machine used to treat erectile dysfunction

Other advanced treatments for ED

When combined with shockwave therapy, strong magnetic field utilised in the Extracorporeal MagnetoTransduction Therapy (EMTT), are capable of reshaping the penis and improving blood circulation. NanoVi improves the immune system of the body and speeds up the healing process. FMS on the other hand provides electro-magnetic energy which stimulates targeted deep muscle structures, triggers body's motor nerve system and therefore enables muscle contraction.

While the stigma surrounding ED and PD may still persist in some areas, awareness and acceptance of these conditions are growing. With advancements in treatment like Extra Corporeal Focused Shockwave Therapy, men have more options to address these issues discreetly and effectively. It is essential to promote open discussions about men's health and encourage individuals to seek help without fear or shame.

 

 

 

 

Why the Stigma FAQs

How do sexual issues impact men's lives?

Male sexual issues such as ED and PD can significantly affect a man’s ability to engage in satisfying sexual intercourse with their partners. This can lead to sexual dissatisfaction and give rise to psychological problems like anxiety and depression. These psychological factors can also have broader implications, affecting a man’s overall well-being and diminishing their self-confidence in daily life.

Why do men often conceal their sexual issues?

Many men struggle with sexual issues but choose to keep them hidden and avoid seeking help. The main reason for this is the fear that disclosing their issues may negatively impact their sense of masculinity and self-assurance. They worry that conditions like ED or PD could lead others to perceive them as weak and subject them to ridicule. This fear drives them to keep their sexual concerns hidden.

How prevalent are male sexual issues like ED and PD?

Of the various male sexual issues, ED is one of the most common. Millions of men worldwide are affected by this condition, and while it is more prevalent among older men, even younger individuals, including teenagers, can experience ED. On the other hand, PD is less common, though its actual prevalence may be higher than available data suggests. In the UK alone, nearly 10% of men are affected by PD.

Can sexual issues have an impact on a man's emotional health?

Sexual dysfunctions can lead to sexual dissatisfaction and frustration for both men and their partners. These frustrations can contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, stress, or depression in men, significantly affecting their overall well-being. Maintaining mental peace and happiness is crucial for a healthy life, but sexual issues like ED or PD can disrupt this peace of mind.

Can emotional support benefit men experiencing sexual issues?

Emotional support can be invaluable for men silently dealing with sexual issues like ED and PD. Those affected by these issues often feel isolated and unsure where to turn due to the fear of shame and embarrassment. In such situations, psychological support from loved ones, family members, or friends can provide them with the mental strength to confront these issues

Are male sexual issues like ED and PD treatable?

Absolutely, these issues are treatable. While ED is generally easier to treat than PD, both conditions have effective treatments available. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help men address their erection problems and penile curvature

Are non-invasive treatments effective for ED and PD?

Yes, non-invasive treatments can be highly effective for both ED and PD. It’s crucial to consult healthcare professionals to identify the underlying causes of sexual dysfunctions and receive the appropriate treatments. In some cases, individuals with PD may require invasive treatments if non-invasive options prove ineffective. Fortunately, our non-invasive treatment protocol has successfully treated thousands of ED and PD patients without the need for surgical procedures.

What types of treatments do you offer for ED and PD patients?

We primarily provide non-invasive treatments such as focused shockwave therapy, Extracorporeal MagnetoTransduction Therapy (EMTT) NanoVi, and Tesla Chair to treat ED and PD patients. We do not recommend invasive treatments, as they can come with various negative consequences.

How effective is your shockwave therapy in improving erectile function in ED patients?

Our focused shockwave therapy has proven extremely effective in breaking down plaques, enhancing oxygen-rich blood flow in penile tissues, and generating new blood vessels. These benefits enable men to achieve strong and spontaneous erections. Thousands of men worldwide have consulted us and experienced improved erectile function after undergoing this revolutionary treatment option.

Are surgical treatments the only solution for treating PD?

No, from our experience, in most cases, we have successfully treated PD using our non-invasive treatments. Surgical treatments may be necessary in severe cases when all other treatment options have failed. However, they are not the only solution for PD patients.

 

 

 

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