My Boyfriend Has Erectile Dysfunction What Should I Do
Every relationship experiences difficulty at some point. However, what happens when the touch starts to feel different? It is concerning when a boyfriend is affectionate, caring, and attentive in all areas of life, except for sex.
For many couples, the issue of erectile dysfunction (ED) might be a reality and if it is the case, you should know that you are not the only one dealing with it. Many people face this issue and navigating through it is very important. With the right approach, many couples can get through this and achieve closeness again.
Erectile Dysfunction Is Not About You
Feeling uncertain or anxious due to changes in intimacy is natural. Regardless of whatever the reasons might be, the one thing that you need to keep in mind is that ED does not stem from the romantic relationship or how your partner feels about you. Medically, Erectile Dysfunction can have multiple sources, from physical health issues to stress, anxiety and even side effects of some medications.
Most often, the challenge stems from nowhere. It is not about lack of attraction or interest. It is the worry of letting you down that really complicates matters. What you do in response to this issue will really shape whether both of you find it easier or harder to resolve the matter going forward.
What Steps Should I Take?
Although it is not easy to witness your partner struggle with Erectile Dysfunction, there are ways you can assist him. While you may not be able to remedy the problem single-handedly, there are many ways to be beneficial in aiding him towards finding a solution.
Here’s how you can help:
1. Learn About Erectile dysfunction
Begin by understanding what erectile dysfunction is and how it affects the male gender. Disorders like heart disease, diabetes, certain medications, or even emotional issues like stress and anxiety can cause erectile dysfunction. The more aware you are, the better you will cope and handle the situation with your partner.
Do not assume erectile dysfunction is only prevalent in older males, as men of all ages experience this issue. Hence, do not jump to conclusions or make any presumptions.
2. Do Not Judge, Encourage Openness
It is imperative that there is no judgment for your partner to express his feelings regarding ED. This issue can be really sensitive, and your partner may feel vulnerable. Addressing the situation with warmth will aid him to open up.
You need to reassure him that the situation is not severe and that you are tackling the situation as a team. Be careful not to show exhasperation or disappointment, as this would only alter the way he feels in a negative manner.
3. Understand ED Is More Common Than Realized
Inform your boyfriend at erectile dysfunction (ED) is more prevalent than what people think. Millions of men experience it at some point in their lives. Emphasize that he is not alone and there is no need for him to feel ashamed.
This is an issue faced by all men, irrespective of their age, and it is not something to feel shy about. The more you attempt to normalize the circumstance, the better it would be for him to seek the required help.
4. Seek Solutions As A Team
You may not be able to solve ED all by yourself, but you can motivate your partner to seek professional counseling. A healthcare service provider can discuss the available treatment options with him which may consist of medication, therapy, or even lifestyle modifications.
Encourage him to see a doctor. There is a solution for ED and with the right professional support, everything else will fall in the right place. This process will require a lot of patience because treatment takes time, but with your support, he will feel more comfortable seeking the needed assistance.
Dos and Don’ts Of Supporting Your boyfriend Through ED
There varies a lot what one can or cannot do to maximize their aid during this period.
Do:
Speak freely about ED. Do not tiptoe around the issue because simply ignoring it will not help anyone. Communication is central to addressing the problem and reaching a solution.
Inquire for support if needed. In some cases, sympathy is not enough. It seems he would rather be redirected to soft petting and kissing instead of sexual intercourse.
Advocate for a professional to be seen. Suggest that a medical doctor be seen. An ED diagnosis can positively impact one’s life when treated. Help is always available.
Do not:
Hold him accountable for the problem. ED is a clinical diagnosis and should not be viewed as a failure of character or of the relationship. Criticizing language should be avoided as this will impact his self-worth.
No one should feel pressured into treatment. ED is sensitive, and may just need some time to warm up for some contemplation over the decision.
Put your own feelings to the side. It’s okay to feel angry. If it becomes a challenge, get to talk about it with some trusted friends, family members, or a therapist.
A guide toward solutions: ED treatment
ED is treatable in many ways, and will be determined by his doctor alongside your partner.
Some medications that are popularly administered include sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis). These increase blood flow to the penis, making it effortless to achieve an erection. However, these must be used with caution under a practitioner’s supervision.
With regard to stress or anxiety regarding performance, therapy can be useful if there are any psychological factors at play that contribute to Ed. As individuals and couples, therapy can help in alleviating such emotional concerns.
Moreover, lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, cessation of smoking, and curtailing alcohol consumption can yield positive results in overcoming Erectile Dysfunction. Fostering these changes can be advantageous for his health as well as your relationship.
Moving Forward Together
Addressing Erectile Dysfunction with your partner goes beyond providing a solution; it helps to strengthen the emotional bond, deepens trust, and rebuilds intimacy in the relationship. Even though Ed might be challenging, it should not define your relationship.
Taking the time to understand the problem, being patient and non judgmental enables trusting your partner to seek help and allowing you to rebuild intimacy. Where Erectile Dysfunction is properly managed, a relationship can flourish like never before, provided they receive the necessary support and care.