Dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a challenging and disheartening experience for any man. Although it is not uncommon for men of any age to experience some form of ED, it doesn't make it any less of an obstacle.
Dealing with temporary erectile dysfunction
Temporary ED is a common problem among men that various factors, such as physical health issues, psychological stressors, relationship problems, or lifestyle habits, can cause. What makes this form of ED temporary is that it isn’t a chronic or persistent problem, but one that goes away after small changes are made to improve the underlying condition.
The duration of temporary ED can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. In some cases, temporary ED may only last for a few days or weeks, especially if caused by a temporary factor like stress or anxiety. In other cases, it may last longer if caused by an underlying health condition or relationship issue.
Here are four things you can do to overcome it:
1. Consult a medical professional
If you are experiencing temporary ED, the most crucial first step is to consult a doctor or specialist. ED can indicate an underlying health condition, such as heart disease, clogged blood vessels, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, etc. Before you can begin taking steps to alleviate your ED, your doctor will want to run tests to ensure that your physical health isn't causing your ED. After running these health checks, your doctor may recommend you change your lifestyle to help treat your erectile dysfunction, such as adopting a healthier diet, cutting back on drinking alcohol or quitting smoking cigarettes.
2. Talk with a sex therapist or counselor
If you've ruled out physical ailments contributing to your temporary ED, the next step would be to see a sex therapist or licensed counselor. They can help identify additional stressors or issues you may be feeling with a partner that may be detrimental to your sexual health or mental health. These experts can be seen alone or with a partner, or both. While talking about ED or sex can feel taboo to some, opening up about issues to someone well-versed on the topic can make you feel heard and understood and help you move past your temporary erectile dysfunction.
3. Add variety to your sex life
Temporary ED can be frustrating, but getting over the slump can be as simple as changing your sex routine. Talk with your partner about trying new positions, bringing sex toys into the bedroom, or trying to have sex more spontaneously than before. Adding new experiences and sensations into the bedroom, or increasing the foreplay you and your partner engage in, makes it exciting and may be essential to putting you back in your normal sexual performance levels.
4. Be patient
If you have anxiety or worry that your ED will present itself every time you have sex, you may unknowingly contribute to a self-fulfilling prophecy. Having this anxiety can worsen your ED and not help you at all. For this reason, it's important to practice mental resilience and be gentle with yourself. ED is normal, and often times, just temporary.
Conclusion
Following the tips above, you can overcome temporary ED and enjoy a fulfilling sex life. Remember to consult a medical professional, see a sex therapist or counselor, spice up your sex life, and be patient. Most importantly, be kind to yourself, and don't let temporary ED hamper your sex life.
