How Can ED Affect Your Relationship?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition in which a man cannot achieve, or keep an erection sufficiently long enough for satisfying sexual intercourse. However, it is not to be confused with low libido which is when someone does not want sex. 

Men with ED may desire sex, but the repercussions of the ED may affect their mental health to the point that they suppress it or act uninterested.

While this condition is worrying, it can be treated. But the effects it can have upon couples can be disastrous if there is no open communication between them. Because men are conditioned to think that their performance in bed is the benchmark of their masculinity, many feel like this is an embarrassing problem to have. Thus, they feel hesitant about opening up to their partner.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the ways ED can affect your relationship.

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay 

Insecurities

It’s obvious to think that men with ED would be insecure about themselves. While it is true, this can affect their partner significantly as well. A man who is insecure about his condition

may not have the confidence to talk about it with his partner. Instead, he brushes the topic aside and would give excuses like he’s too tired or he has a lot on his mind.

This creates a barrier between the couple. Their partner can go through a rollercoaster of emotions. The partner might feel like they aren’t attractive enough when that isn’t the case. When things start going downhill, they might question if the man has been cheating with another woman, causing much strain on the relationship.

As embarrassing as it may feel, ED is a topic that needs to be discussed amongst couples. That is the first step to getting better. You may not want to visit a doctor now, but depending on where you live, you can legally get medication for ED such as viagra connect or other treatment alternatives online.

Lack of Intimacy

As sex is seen as the bedstone for intimacy and pleasure for many couples, a lack, or none of it can really put out the flare in a relationship. The relationship may start feeling stale, and this can hurt the couple. But there are many alternatives to spark intimacy while the partner is getting help.

While it may seem ludicrous, a change in the environment, activity, or time may help. Try going into another room, make exciting changes to the bedroom, or explore different positions. 

Couples should focus on the feelings of being engaged with each other rather than just penetration. Having sexual intercourse in the morning may help as testosterone is naturally higher in the morning.

Feelings of Guilt

As men are often expected to satisfy their partners, those who are suffering through ED can’t help to feel guilty for not reaching those expectations. Sometimes, their partner’s efforts into trying something new, such as buying new underwear with the hopes of seducing him can further drive him into a feeling of hopelessness.

After all, it’s not about the underwear or the makeup. ED is a health (be it physiological or psychological) issue, and no amount of money spent on the superficial can help it.

While the man is feeling guilty about not being able to please her, she’s also bearing the guilt of feeling like she’s not trying hard enough. The couple needs to realize that the only way to truly overcome this is by seeking help, in which a lot of open communication needs to be established, to begin with.