Sex, money, and politics – the three topics that have traditionally been off the table for discussion at any dinner party. While we’ve come a long way in talking about the latter two, there’s still a way to go when it comes to breaking down barriers around sex, and each of our different experiences with it – especially for men.

In a study of over 100,000 Aussie men aged 45 and up, 61% of them had a degree of erectile dysfunction. It’s a real problem, that can’t be fixed by popping a pill. Instead, sexual dysfunction needs to be treated as the chronic condition that it is. I’m one of the psychologists at VitylMan, a digital men’s health clinic that connects patients to an entire team of health professionals to address chronic and complex health conditions. I’ve treated countless male patients that have come to me with sexual health concerns, only to leave diagnosed with other, more deep-rooted chronic health conditions that are impacting their ability to perform in the bedroom.

Erectile dysfunction can be an early sign of heart disease

80% of Vityl men did not know that erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an early sign of heart disease. In fact, it can occur up to three years before any chest pain strikes. With erectile dysfunction preceding coronary artery disease (CAD) in almost 70% of cases, there is a good chance that ED is an indication of silent CAD, a heart disease you didn’t even know you had. With these staggering figures in mind, it is important that men take notice of issues that may first arise in the bedroom and ask why rather than ignoring it.

1 in 5 men suffer from premature ejaculation

Despite premature ejaculation being one of the most common sexual dysfunctions amongst men, 56% did not know how commonly experienced it is. Recent epidemiological studies suggest that premature ejaculation, i.e., less than one minute, affects up to 31% of Aussie men and can be a lifelong issue if not dealt with. So, speak now or forever hold your peace.

Men who experience premature ejaculation can also experience psychological distress

That’s right. 63% of men do not realise the psychological impact premature ejaculation can have on their mental health. Not only is it an extremely common issue, but it can also cause significant distress, so much so, a study of young male adults found that they would rather break up with their partners than disclose their condition. Despite this, studies indicate that their partners were less affected by premature ejaculation than the man with the condition. So, avoid internalising any feelings of embarrassment, disappointment, or anger, it may have a domino effect on the state of your mental health, relationship, and sexual performance.

Relationship issues can cause erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation

Speaking of domino effects… 84% of men didn’t believe it when they heard it. Let’s face it, relationships can be stressful and during periods of conflict, negative emotions tend to surface. As a result of additional stress, it can be difficult to get and sustain an erection or last in bed. Despite this, sex isn’t always about performance per se, it’s about deepening the connection you have with your partner and having fun. If you aren’t feeling safe or connected with your partner it is totally reasonable to experience issues with ED or PE, and they can usually resolve themselves once stress is relieved.

Viagra doesn’t improve the quality of orgasm

Contrary to popular belief, 72% of men do not buy into the myth that the ‘little blue pill’ and others like it improve the quality of orgasm. Whilst Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, is designed to treat erectile dysfunction by making it easier for men to get and sustain an erection, it does not necessarily improve the experience of orgasm or make it last any longer. While you can’t rely on Viagra to keep you hard after ejaculation, studies have shown that it can reduce the time between orgasm and your next erection.

By talking more openly about sex, especially the male experience of sex, and the many factors that can contribute both positively and negatively to performance, we can have a greater understanding of it, feel less shame, perform better in the bedroom, and live healthier and happier lives.

Know when to ask for help

If you’re having a hard time in bed, or perhaps struggling to, it is often directly related to your overall health and well-being. Vityl’s men’s health clinic, Vityl Man, provides convenient and effective treatment options for men with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. When seeking treatment, it is important to do more than just get a pill. At Vityl Man, in addition to discreet delivery of a custom medication plan, we offer all patients comprehensive diagnostics, cardiac and diabetes screening and mental health review as well as a wide range of supportive treatments and programs to help you get back to your best in the bedroom.

About Vityl

Vityl is a patient-centric care platform dedicated to helping you feel your best. Using our unique platforms and medical management software we allow our team of doctors, specialists, allied health experts and coaches to coordinate seamless and effective care for your most chronic concerns.