Erectile dysfunction, medically known as erectile dysfunction (impotence), is one of the most common sexual health problems in men. This condition, defined as the inability to achieve or maintain sufficient hardness for sexual intercourse, can be caused by both physical and psychological reasons. Erectile dysfunction negatively affects not only sexual life, but also self-confidence and couple relationships. Thanks to the modern treatment methods developed today, erectile dysfunction can be taken under control and quality of life can be significantly improved. In this article, we will talk about all the details about erectile dysfunction and solutions.
Frequency of Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sexual health problems in men and its prevalence increases with age. Research shows that about half of men over the age of 40 have varying degrees of erectile dysfunction. In younger age groups, this problem can also occur due to stress, lifestyle, chronic diseases or psychological factors.
Overall statistics show that one in three men worldwide have experienced erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives. This rate increases even more in middle and older ages. Especially in men with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and smoking, erectile dysfunction is much more common.
What are the Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can be influenced by many different risk factors. These include both physical and lifestyle factors:
- Age: Advanced age is one of the most important risk factors for erection problems. After the age of 40, the incidence increases significantly.
- Chronic Diseases: Diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and obesity are the most common diseases that can lead to erectile dysfunction.
- Smoking and Alcohol Use: While smoking disrupts the vascular structure, excessive alcohol consumption negatively affects the nervous system and hormonal balance and contributes to erectile dysfunction.
- Psychological Factors: Stress, depression, anxiety disorders and relationship problems can directly affect sexual performance.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Inadequate physical activity can trigger erectile dysfunction by impairing the circulatory system and general health.
- Medication Use: Some blood pressure medications, antidepressants and hormone treatments can cause erectile dysfunction as a side effect.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone and other hormone disorders increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.
How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed?
Erectile dysfunction is diagnosed with a detailed patient history and physical examination. In the first stage, the duration and frequency of the patient’s complaints and lifestyle habits are evaluated. In addition, medications, existing chronic diseases and psychological status also play an important role in the diagnostic process.
Various tests can be performed to confirm the diagnosis:
- Blood Tests: Hormone levels, blood sugar and cholesterol levels are measured to check for underlying metabolic or hormonal problems.
- Semen Analysis and Urine Tests: Reveals possible problems with reproductive health and the urinary tract.
- Doppler Ultrasound: Detects vascular problems by measuring blood flow in the veins of the penis.
- Psychological Assessment: Experts examine the impact of psychological factors such as depression, anxiety or stress.
As a result, erectile dysfunction cannot be diagnosed solely on the basis of physical symptoms; it requires a comprehensive evaluation. In this way, the underlying cause is accurately determined and a personalized treatment plan is prepared.
How is erectile dysfunction treated?
Treatment of erectile dysfunction is planned according to the source of the problem and requires personalized approaches. Lifestyle changes are of great importance in the first step. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, quitting smoking and alcohol positively affect erectile function. In addition, since stress and psychological pressures are also an important risk factor, psychological support and counseling can be added to the treatment when necessary.
Among medical treatment options, oral medications are the most commonly used method. These drugs increase blood flow to the penis and help to achieve an erection and should be used under the supervision of a doctor. Hormone therapy can be applied in patients with testosterone deficiency. In addition, injection treatments and vacuum devices are among the methods that mechanically support erection.
In patients who have severe erectile dysfunction and do not benefit from other methods, surgical treatment comes to the agenda. At this point penile prosthesis application is preferred as a permanent solution. Penile prostheses are an effective method that allows the patient to lead a natural sexual life.
What are the Treatment Stages of Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction treatments It proceeds in steps and is determined by the patient’s age, general health and the underlying cause. Here are the stages of treatment:
1. Diagnosis and Evaluation
The patient’s history is taken, a physical examination is performed and, if necessary, blood tests, hormone analysis and Doppler ultrasound are performed. This will help to determine whether the problem is vascular, hormonal or psychological.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Regular exercise, healthy eating, smoking and alcohol cessation, weight control and stress management can significantly reduce erectile dysfunction.
3. Drug Treatment
Some oral medications support the formation of an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis. This treatment method is the most commonly used step and must be performed under the supervision of a doctor.
4. Hormone Therapy
Hormone replacement can be performed in patients with low testosterone levels. This method is only effective when hormone deficiency is detected.
5. Mechanical and Supportive Methods
Penile injections, vacuum devices or topical medications may be preferred in patients who do not benefit from medication.
6. Psychological Support
Psychological counseling and therapy are part of the treatment in cases of depression, anxiety disorders or relationship problems.
7. Penile Prosthesis
Penile prosthesis surgery is applied in advanced cases where medication, hormone or mechanical methods fail to produce results.
- What is a penile prosthesis? It is a medical device placed inside the penis that artificially provides erection function.
- Types: There are two basic types: Malleable prostheses are permanently rigid and provide ease of use. Inflatable prostheses offer a more natural erection appearance and consist of 2-piece or 3-piece systems.
- Lifespan: Inflatable penile prostheses made of quality materials can usually be used for 10-15 years.
- Advantages: It offers the most permanent and definitive solution for advanced erection problems. It provides sufficient hardness for sexual intercourse and does not affect orgasm and ejaculation functions.
- Surgical Process: It is surgically applied by experienced urologists. After the postoperative recovery period, the patient can return to normal sexual life.
One of the most curious issues for patients considering penile prosthesis treatment is the cost. However, the point to be remembered here is that the priority in prosthesis selection is health and long-term success. The type of prosthesis, the material used and the center where the surgery is performed can directly affect the prices. It is therefore not possible to give an exact figure. As a general information, penile prosthesis prices 2025 It will vary according to the type of prosthesis and hospital conditions. The most accurate and up-to-date information will be given by the specialist physician after the examination.