Fact or Fiction: Debunking Top Myths About Erectile Dysfunction

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be frustrating and confusing for both a man and his partner. ED, or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for intercourse, is common, and it’s estimated that by 2025 almost 322 million men worldwide will be affected by ED.^1,2 ED happens when blood flow to the penis is limited or when nerves are damaged.³ As men age, ED becomes more common due to various health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, hormones or cardiovascular disease.²

While ED may begin in the bedroom, it can have a profound effect on a man, his self-esteem and his relationships beyond romance.⁴ Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about ED that continue to push a stigma and may prevent men from seeking information about available treatment options. Keep reading to learn some common myths about ED and ways it can be treated beyond medication.

Myth 1: ED only affects much older men.

ED affects approximately 1 in 5 men, aged 20 and older, in the United States.⁵ And even though it’s more common among older men, it doesn't mean it's something you have to accept and live with.

Myth 2: ED means there is something wrong with the penis.

To produce an erection, a man needs a healthy brain, penis, blood vessels, nerves and adequate amounts of testosterone. Changes to any of these functions could contribute to ED.⁶ A complete examination with a health care professional can help determine the cause of ED and identify appropriate treatment options.

Myth 3: If a man has trouble getting an erection, it's because they're not attracted to their partner.

Many things cause erection problems, including serious health conditions. Although lack of sexual attraction to a partner might be one of them, it's far more likely to be something else, such as:⁶

• Heart problems, including high blood pressure and clogged blood vessels
• Diabetes
• Certain prescription medications
• Nerve disorders, like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis
• Low testosterone
• Mood disorders such as stress, anxiety and depression
• Smoking and drinking alcohol
• Certain surgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area, such as prostate surgery

Myth 4: Medications are the only way to treat ED.

Medications are a successful way to treat ED in some men, but there are other options available for those who don’t respond well to medications or don’t want to take a pill every day. These options include injections, hormone therapy, vacuum pumps or penile implants.

A penile implant is a long-term treatment option that allows direct control of both the timing and duration of an erection. One type of penile implant is the AMS 700™ Inflatable Penile Prosthesis, which is designed to closely mimic a natural erection, providing rigidity when inflated and a natural, flaccid appearance when deflated. Once manually activated, an erection can be maintained for as long as desired and can be deflated with just one touch of a button. The penile implant procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and is performed under anesthesia. A small incision is made either in the scrotum, above the pubic bone, or on the penis, and a surgeon inserts all components through this opening.

If you think a penile implant might be an option for you or to learn more, ask your doctor about the AMS 700 penile implant. To hear more from men who have the AMS 700 penile implant, visit edcure.com.

Important Risk Information: As with any medical procedure, complications can occur. Side effects include but are not limited to no longer being able to achieve natural or spontaneous erections, infection (in which case the implant may have to be removed), pain (typically associated with the healing process), mechanical failure of the implant, penile curvature or scarring, loss of tissue, device migration and unintended inflation can also occur. Once implanted with AMS 700, other ED treatment options will no longer be available. Find a link to additional patient safety information at EDCure.com.

Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. This material is for informational purposes only and not meant for medical diagnosis. This information does not constitute medical or legal advice, and Boston Scientific makes no representation regarding the medical benefits included in this information. Boston Scientific strongly recommends that you consult with your physician on all matters pertaining to your health.

References

1. Erectile dysfunction. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://medlineplus.gov/erectiledysfunction.html. Accessed July 2024.
2. Aytac IA, McKinlay JB, Krane RJ. The likely worldwide increase in erectile dysfunction between 1995 and 2025 and some possible policy consequences. BJU Int. 1999; 84:50–56.
3. “Erectile Dysfunction (Ed).” Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment - Urology Care Foundation, www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/e/erectile-dysfunction-(ed)#Treatment. Accessed July 2024.
4. DiMeo PJ. Psychosocial and relationship issues in men with erectile dysfunction. Urol Nurs. 2006 Dec;26(6):442–6.
5. Selvin E, Burnett AL, Platz EA. Prevalence and risk factors for erectile dysfunction in the US. Am J Med. 2007 Feb;120(2):151-7. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.06.010. PMID: 17275456.
6. Erectile Dysfunction. Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 29 Mar. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/symptoms-causes/syc-20355776. Accessed July 2024.