14 Erectile Dysfunction Myths

You can find an overwhelming amount of information online about erectile dysfunction (ED). But have you ever wondered if that information is factual?

If you’re here to get more answers about ED, we’re here to help you separate erectile dysfunction facts from fiction.

Unfortunately, plenty of bad advice is out floating around online about ED and male sexual health. It can make a man doubt what he’s experiencing, or it may stop him from getting a qualified medical diagnosis altogether. Here is proof: 75% of men with ED don’t seek the correct treatment.

You deserve accurate and honest information about what’s happening to you, physically, sexually, and emotionally. So, let’s bust some of the more common ED myths and replace them with genuine facts!

General Erectile Dysfunction Myths

Myth #1: If a Man Has Trouble With Sex, He Must Have ED

Fact: Occasional difficulties with getting or maintaining an erection can be normal in men. Women sometimes experience low libido when exhausted or anxious (this often happens post-childbirth, for example). Male desire can also be affected by similar stresses.

If you frequently experience trouble with getting or keeping an erection, it’s best to seek advice and treatment from a specialist in male sexual health.

Myth #2: ED Is Depressing But It’s Not a Real Health Problem

Fact: Yes, erectile dysfunction is depressing, and it can negatively impact a man’s confidence. But other, more serious health issues can be a factor.

In some cases, ED can signal that a man has a serious, underlying medical problem such as diabetes or a heart condition.

Myth #3: Erectile Dysfunction Only Affects Men

Fact: Of course, ED is a physical and sexual problem that affects a man’s erections, and ED often affects a man’s emotional well-being. It’s not unnatural for men with ED to feel overwhelmed by depression, frustration, reduced confidence, and even anger at their situation.

Sometimes, these feelings spill over into a man’s relationships with family, friends, or co-workers. However, when a man gets a proper diagnosis by qualified professionals in male sexual health, they can also receive mental health support with their ED treatments.

Age-Related Erectile Dysfunction Myths

Myth #4: ED Happens To Older Men All the Time

Fact: Studies show that ED does occur more frequently in older men over 75, but you shouldn’t think that you must suffer from ED at any age.

An older man may require different stimulation to get aroused, and ED treatments exist specifically for them. However, a man shouldn’t have to give up sexual activity at any age. Many men enjoy sex throughout their entire life—so can you!

Myth #5: Young Men Don’t Get ED

Fact: This is not only untrue, but it can also be damaging to younger men with ED. Studies show that men of any age can experience ED due to many physical or psychosocial issues.  ED is increasingly prevalent with age, approximately 40% of men are affected by age 40 and nearly 70% of men are affected at age 70.

Myths About the Causes of ED

Myth #6: ED Means There’s Something Wrong With the Penis

Fact: ED affects the penis, but a man’s penis isn’t always the problem. ED can be associated with physical issues like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.  It can occur after radiation or surgeries in men with prostate cancer.  Many medications can also cause ED.

Not-so-healthy habits like heavy smoking or the use of non-prescription drugs may also cause ED. More on that below.

Myth #7: ED Means You’re No Longer Attracted to Your Partner

Fact: Playing the partner “blame game” degenerates quickly.  Our sexual health is quite complex, and it involves many physical, psychological, and emotional factors. Men with ED are often overwhelmed by physical and mental issues, but these issues are treatable.

Myth #8: A Few Bad Habits Don’t Cause Sexual Dysfunction

Fact: Some habits can negatively impact a man’s erections.

Smoking cigarettes is particularly unhealthy. Smoking can damage the blood vessels and decrease blood flow, making it harder for men to get erections. Here’s some solid proof: an Iranian study found that 25% of ex-smokers experienced better erections one year after quitting.

Using drugs (non-prescription or recreational) is linked to cases of ED. Many men also find it’s more challenging to get an erection after drinking heavily. Cutting back on alcohol can make blood vessels healthier, and when blood flows stronger, that can mean better erections. 

Myth #9: Tight Underwear Causes ED

Fact: Some guys prefer their tighty whities, and good on them! We don’t know of any study proving a link between ED and tight underwear.

But please beware of one piece of medical evidence indicating that tighter-fitting underwear can decrease male fertility.

Because sperm naturally prefer a cooler environment than a man’s internal body temperature, wearing tighter underwater can slow down sperm production because the scrotum becomes warmer. So, if you’re looking to start a family, it’s a good idea to choose boxers over briefs!

Myth #10: Myths or Erectile Dysfunction Facts—Do Cycling Sports Cause ED?

Numerous medical studies have attempted to find a link between frequent, long-distance cycling sports and erectile dysfunction. But to date, the results have been inconclusive.

Some evidence does seem to indicate an increased risk of ED in long-distance cyclists. Other studies can’t determine any severe ED or male infertility threat for cycling enthusiasts.

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Myths

Myth #11: ED Is Untreatable

Fact: No man needs to suffer ED because he thinks treatments don’t exist. Many ED treatments are available for the various causes of erectile dysfunction.

Myth #12: A Man Needs Prescription Pills To Treat ED

Fact: Prescription drugs are oral medications used to treat ED, but pills aren’t the only ED treatment. Sometimes pills can cause adverse side effects and should be avoided.

Other effective ED treatments include Acoustic Shockwave therapy for ED, penis pumping mechanisms, and TRT (testosterone replacement therapy).

Myth #13: Testosterone Supplements Will Cure ED

Fact: Testosterone supplements are beneficial treatments if a man currently has low testosterone levels. Sometimes, a man’s testosterone levels are normal, and supplements aren’t the answer.

It’s always best to consult an ED specialist who can diagnose your situation and any underlying health conditions before determining the correct ED treatment options for you.

Myth #14: Herbal Remedies and Supplements Are Home Remedies for ED

Fact: It’s unwise to take so-called “supplements” for ED without consulting a specialist. OTC products sometimes contain unregulated ingredients that can be dangerous or decrease the effectiveness of other prescription medications you’re taking.

Conclusion

Many so-called erectile dysfunction facts turn out to be erectile dysfunction myths.

Instead of Googling Home Remedies and finding unverified information, book a 30 Min free consultation with us.

We help uncover the cause of your ED, and we can design a safe, efficient treatment plan to give you the best results possible. ED doesn’t have to be a life sentence, and you can get back to feeling like yourself again!

Book a FREE 30 Min ED Consultation