a man holding the bridge of a nose suffering from anaemia

Erectile Dysfunction
and Anaemia

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common problem among men who suffer with anaemia. We advise patients to consult their doctor and also approach us as their ED may be a result of their anaemia or another indication of poor health.

MansMatters specialises in male sexual health, and thanks to cutting edge clinical technologies we have been able to reverse the decline in many men suffering from ED.

 

 

 

 

an illustration showing how shockwave therapy can help treat men's sexual health issues

What is anaemia?

Anaemia (also referred to as low haemoglobin) is caused by a low red blood cell count and can cause fatigue and other health issues among which is its association with causing ED.

Anaemia occurs when the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells to adequately transport oxygen to the body's tissues. This deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness, and reduced energy levels. Understanding the underlying causes of anaemia is crucial in addressing both the general health concerns and potential ED.

 

a blackboard with Vitamin B12 written on it, surrounded with food sources of the vitamin

Vitamin B12 and Erectile Dysfunction

Research suggests that vitamin B12 deficiency may play a role in the development of ED. Red blood cells require adequate levels of vitamin B12 for optimal functioning. Insufficient B12 levels can lead to reduced production of red blood cells, consequently affecting the circulation of oxygen throughout the body, including the penis.

To ensure an adequate intake of vitamin B12, it is recommended that you include food sources rich in B12, such as animal liver, kidneys, sardines, beef, tuna, milk, cheese, and eggs, in your diet. Vitamin supplements can be taken to augment B12 levels in your body.

 

 

Vitamin B9 (Folate) Deficiency and Erectile Dysfunction

Another vitamin that may influence ED is vitamin B9, also known as folate. In a 2014 research study involving 100 men, it was found that taking vitamin B9 supplements led to improvements in sexual function.

Foods rich in vitamin B9 include beef liver, green vegetables (especially spinach, kale, Brussel sprouts, peas, and broccoli), avocados, eggs, citrus fruits, bananas, beans, lentils, and other legumes. Incorporating these foods into your diet or using supplements may help in addressing folate deficiency and potentially alleviate your ED problems.

A study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology analysed the folic acid levels of men with ED. The researchers found that men with erectile dysfunction typically had lower levels of folic acid than healthy, unaffected men and that they often also suffered from premature ejaculation.

In a more recent study published in 2020 the authors noted a more direct link between folic acid and erectile health, revealing that men with ED showed measurable improvements in erectile health after taking a folic acid supplement on a daily basis for three months. 

While the most recent research published in 2021 evaluated nine previous studies and conclude that taking Folic Acid supplements had a positive effect on ED.

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a blackboard with Vitamin B9 written on it, surrounded with food sources of the vitamin

 

 

 

 

a solemn man sitting on the edge of a bed with a woman in bed behind him

Iron-Deficiency Anaemia

Iron-deficiency is also a major cause of anaemia, and it can induce ED as well in men. Without enough iron, the tissues of the penis may not receive enough oxygen rich blood supply, which can lead to ED. Iron-deficiency can also decrease the level of nitric oxide, which can also lead to men suffering from ED.

Thankfully, iron deficiency can be treated by following an iron-rich diet and taking iron supplements. Foods such as red meat, spinach, pumpkin seeds, shellfish, broccoli, collards, iron-enriched white breads, and cereals can improve iron-deficiency anaemia and ED in men.

 

a wooden platter of different foods rich in vitamin c

Other Foods that Can Improve Anaemia

Copper helps with the production of haemoglobin and vitamin C promotes iron absorption in the body. So, foods that are high in copper (whole grain products, chocolates, nuts, wheat bran cereals, etc.) and vitamin C (citrus fruit, strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers etc) can improve the condition of anaemia.

Moreover, foods with vitamin A like liver, green leafy vegetables, eggs, etc. can also aid patients in this situation.

 

Underlying Diseases and Anaemia-Related Erectile Dysfunction

Certain diseases such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, and Crohn's disease can interfere with the production of red blood cells, potentially leading to anaemia.

If someone suspects they are suffering from anaemia, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options. Properly managing these underlying conditions can help improve overall health, including the specific health of the penis and erectile function.


a doctor in a black suit and red tie speaking with a patient

 

a person with a clipboard writing notes in a discussion with a patient

Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment

While dietary changes and vitamin supplementation may be beneficial for some individuals with anaemia-related ED, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment options based on your individual circumstances.

This is especially true if your ED persists despite changing your diet to include the recommended foods or supplements. This may be because of other health problems or issues with blood circulation in the penis.

 

 

 

 

Focused Shockwave Therapy for Treating ED in Anaemia Patients

We have found that Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) treatment for ED is often suitable for patients suffering from both Erectile Dysfunction and Anaemia. This innovative therapy targets the vascular system, stimulating the creation of new blood vessels, regenerating existing ones, and significantly improving nerve and surrounding tissue function.

By enhancing blood flow to the erectile tissues, FSWT enables individuals to achieve natural erections without relying on pills or methods that may interfere with foreplay, offering a potential avenue for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical solutions.

The erectile dysfunction therapy we undertake at our clinic is performed using the latest Swiss engineered technology shockwave system, the STORZ DUOLITH® SD1 which provides ultra-focused shock wave therapy, superior to radial shockwave used by many other practitioners and which is the most advanced device of its kind available today.

 

 

 

 

 

Using Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy to Treat ED

Our Extracorporeal MagnetoTransduction Therapy (EMTT) is also very effective in treating ED in anaemia patients. This treatment uses a strong magnetic field in the endothelial cells, which are present in the blood vessels of the penis. EMTT speeds up the healing process of the body, increases intercellular communication and further enhances oxygen rich blood flow in the penile tissues.

What's more interesting is that the effectiveness of EMTT is significantly increased when it is used simultaneously with shockwave therapy. Moreover, our EMTT technology can generate a wide range of frequencies at various power levels, which allows us to set exact adjustments most suitable for the patients.

the head of an EMTT machine used to treat erectile dysfunction

 

a three dimensional render of a Functional Magnetic Stimulation machine

Using Functional Magnetic Stimulation to Treat ED

We also use Functional Magnetic Stimulation (FMS) to treat men who suffer from Erectile Dysfunction and Anaemia. FMS is a non-invasive treatment modality that uses high-intensity electromagnetic fields to stimulate nerves in the pelvic area, which can improve blood flow to the penis.

FMS helps improve penile blood flow and erectile function by addressing important underlying factors that contribute to ED.

 

 

Erectile Dysfunction and Anaemia FAQs

Is ED a Common Issue in Men Who Suffer from Anaemia?

Although both ED and anaemia may seem unrelated at a first glance, both of these issues have a strong association with one another. That’s why, men who suffer from anaemia have an increased risk of suffering from ED.

Is there any link between ED and Anaemia?

Anaemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and low energy levels in men. All of these factors are known to be responsible for the development of ED.

How does Anaemia Occur?

Anaemia is a condition which is identified by a low red blood cell count. It can occur due to a variety of reasons, for example, iron deficiency, folate deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, etc. can all cause anaemia. Other chronic issues such as cancer, HIV, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease and Crohn’s disease can also cause anaemia.

How Can I Improve My Sexual Function if I Have Anaemia?

If you have anaemia and are suffering from sexual dysfunction you can improve your sexual function by treating anaemia. To do so, you may need to consult a medical professional. You can also adopt a healthier diet, which will improve your anaemia and your sexual function at the same time.

Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency be Responsible for the Development of ED?

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a reduced production of red blood cells, and this can affect the circulation of oxygen in various parts of the body, including penile tissues. This can cause difficulties in obtaining strong erections.

Can Vitamin B9 Deficiency Cause ED?

Vitamin B9 deficiency can be responsible for the development of ED in men. A number of research programs have been conducted on this subject and shown that vitamin B9 deficiency can cause ED.

Is Iron Deficiency a Risk Factor for ED?

Iron deficiency is considered a risk factor for ED. With iron deficiency, production of red blood cells can get hampered, which means penile tissues may not get enough oxygen rich blood flow. Moreover, iron deficiency can lead to lower levels of nitric oxide. Without an adequate amount of nitric oxide, penile tissues may not get properly relaxed. If these tissues don’t get relaxed enough, then blood circulation within the penis can get hampered which ultimately can result in ED.

Is ED Treatable For Those Who Suffer From Anaemia?

Yes, changing diets to treat anaemia may be enough for some men to regain better erectile function. However, this may not work for many men, and you will need to explore alternative treatments such as shockwave therapy, EMTT therapy and FMS.

 

 

 

 

 

 020 7205 2711

enquiries@shockwaveclinics.org 

 

 

Knightsbridge

32 Beauchamp Place, 
Knightsbridge, 
SW3 1NU
 

Richmond

11 Upper Ham Rd, 
Richmond Upon Thames, 
TW10 5LD
 

 

 

 

 

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