Testosterone and ED (Erectile Dysfunction)
There is a direct link between testosterone and ED (erectile dysfunction). We’re going to walk you through this link today, to hopefully answer a few questions: why does ED happen? Can ED be fixed? What should my first steps be in helping with my ED or low testosterone symptoms?
We’ll answer all of these questions to help you regain your confidence and hopefully course-correct your sexual health back to where it could be.
By Your Wellness Center
What exactly is Erectile Dysfunction?
Let’s quickly go over exactly what erectile dysfunction is before moving to the how and why. It’s important to note that ED is not a disease, more a symptom indicating a deeper issue within our bodies- an issue that can corrected, but more on that later.
ED is when the penis is unable to achieve or maintain an erection, typically brought on by plaque build-up or improper blood flow. This is not unlike heart disease with the restricted blood flow and plaque issues. Also, in both cases, it can cause the vessels to shrink or even fade away entirely, causing greater issues overtime.
1 in 3 men will suffer from ED in their lifetime and the unfortunate truth is that most men will suffer in silence. Broaching the subject with either a physician or life partner is both uncomfortable and embarrassing- we get it. Just know that the first step is the hardest, but once you vocalize your concerns and address the issue, we promise the rest is much easier.
Why does ED happen? Is it my testosterone?
As men approach their 30’s and 40’s, their bodies begin to slow or stop altogether the production of a vital hormone: testosterone. This process is typically referred to as andropause, the male equivalent of menopause. A lack of testosterone greatly affects our sexual health and ability to perform.
Like we mentioned at the beginning, testosterone and ED are directly linked. As levels of testosterone begin to drop, signs and symptoms of ED can start to appear. Erections occur much less often and even when they do, they’re weaker and unable to be maintained for as long.
Testosterone and ED are linked because low levels of this vital hormone reduce blood flow within our bodies, causing issues like ED. In fact, 95% of men will not be able to improve their ED symptoms without first correcting their testosterone levels. Which leads us into what your treatment options are and where you should start.
Can ED be treated? What are my options?
Yes- erectile dysfunction can in fact be treated! You do not have to life or suffer in sliced with ED, there are options out there for you. As we just mentioned, your symptoms can only be improved by first addressing your low levels of testosterone. By achieving optimal levels of testosterone, most men find their ED to be gone completely and won’t have to resort to other treatments.
The answer to erectile dysfunction is first and foremost, hormone replacement therapy- which we offer here at Your Wellness Center. You’d start by getting some simple bloodwork done and having your hormone levels checked. That way you can see if low testosterone truly is the issue. Then, after assessing your levels and sitting down with a provider, you can start the hormone replacement (or HRT) process.
HRT is the use of bio-identical hormones, injected into the body through micronized pellet form, to re-balance our hormone levels. The best part? It’s completely natural and infinitely more effective than other synthetic ED treatments (injectables, creams, or pills). We are only putting back into your body a natural substance that has been lost over time- nothing synthetic that shouldn’t be there to begin with.
Learn more about our hormone replacement therapy program here.
Other Treatment Options
We always start with hormone replacement therapy first, as it’s likely to fix most of the ED issues men may be facing. If someone is still struggling to achieve fuller, stronger erections, we may then suggest the P-Shot + Z Wave treatment combination.
The P-Shot uses your blood’s own growth factors (called Platelet Rich Plasma or “PRP”) to stimulate the vessels in the penis to grown new blood vessels. This helps to increase blood flow. We then couple the P-Shot with our Z Wave treatment that helps to further stimulate vessels and promote growth. This combined therapy can improve treatment and success rate (of eliminating ED) by 300%.
This treatment combination can also help with painful build-up of plaque that can cause a curvature of the penis, known as Peyronie’s Disease.
Why You Should Avoid Viagra and Cialis
While yes, medications like Viagra and Cialis can help to improve ED symptoms- they are only temporary. These are not permanent fixes on a much deeper issue. It’s putting a band-aid on a bullet wound. You’re not fixing the root of the issue and will have to rely on a drug every time you wish to perform.
In addition, these drugs aren’t natural. With bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, we are only using substances that are already found naturally within your own body. We’re just replacing what’s been lost and depleted over the years. Drugs like Viagra and Cialis are synthetic, and while a quick fix, aren’t the long-term solution you should be looking for.
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We hope now you see the direct correlation between testosterone and ED. You do not have to suffer in silence or alone- you have options. There are ways we can help to naturally combat low testosterone and fight back against erectile dysfunction.
If you have any questions, want to talk with one of our providers, or looking to get started today- fill out our initial consultation form. One of our staff or providers will be in touch to get your journey started. Otherwise, feel free to check out some of our other blogs to learn more. When you’re ready, we’re here.
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