CHECK Berlin #4

SEXUAL HEALTH
ENGLISH
THE TABOO OF
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
Even though we may be very open about our sexuality, many things remain a taboo
topic. Such as erectile dysfunction (ED). This may be because potency is equated with
masculinity. The myth persists despite the fact that every man suffers from erectile
dysfunction at some point in his life.
Foto: Krakenimages.com_stock.adobe.com
HOW OFTEN DOES ERECTILE
DYSFUNCTION OCCUR?
Erectile dysfunction affects about four to five
percent of men between the ages of 30 and 35.
For those over fifty it is already twenty percent.
Anyone who is over the age of 70 must expect
a 50 percent probability that sexual intercourse
will no longer be possible. However, these
figures are based on surveys of men who admit
they have erectile problems. It is therefore
assumed that the number of unreported cases
is much higher.
Men shouldn‘t be ashamed to address potency
problems. Obtaining sexual enhancers without
medical advice and without a valid prescription
should be avoided. The risk of dangerous
side effects, either through incorrect use or
a contaminated counterfeit, is not worth the
risk-benefit ratio.
HOW IS ED DIFFERENT FROM
IMPOTENCY
From a medical point of view, erectile dysfunction
is only diagnosed if sexual intercourse cannot
be performed over a period of six months
due to the nature of the erection - given there is
a desire to have sex.
The term impotence must be distinguished
from this. Because impotence not only includes
erectile dysfunction, but also anejaculation (the
failure to ejaculate) and sterility (inability to
fertilize). However, erectile dysfunction is most
commonly spoken of when the term impotence
comes up.
CONVERSATIONS IN THE
RELATIONSHIP
In most cases the potency problems are
physical. And just because an erection does not
happen does not mean that there is a permanent
erectile dysfunction. Ultimately, however,
both people in a relationship are affected by the
effects of erectile dysfunction. Therefore, the
topic should not be hushed up.
Partners should be able to react empathetically
and convey the feeling that there is understanding.
Sometimes sexual partners are overwhelmed
with ED and assume that it is caused by
a lack of interest. It is therefore important to
take the first step in a relationship and openly
address the problem. (Red)
48 CHECK | AUSGABE 4