Psychological, Social, and Behavioural Benefits for Men Following Effective Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Treatment: Men Who Enjoy Better Sex Experience Improved Psychological Well-Being

The ability to perform sexually and satisfy a partner is frequently perceived by men as defining their masculinity. Erectile dysfunction (ED) and loss of erection hardness can have a profoundly adverse effect on their psychological well-being. The loss of self-esteem associated with ED may, in turn, have an impact on their relationship with their sexual partner, which may result in a withdrawal from intimacy and of affection by their partner, leading to a vicious circle of behavioural change that may further compound the damage to the relationship and both partners psychological well-being. In some men, psychosocial distress caused by ED may develop into secondary depression, or it may aggravate depressive tendencies. This synergistic interaction between ED, depression, and physical illness means that a correct differential diagnosis is essential to target treatment on the leading cause of depression. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors have been used successfully to improve erection hardness in men with depression both alone and in combination with antidepressant therapy. Furthermore, recent prospective studies have demonstrated that by increasing erection hardness and the frequency of successful intercourse attempts, effective treatment of ED has positive effects on a man's psychological health and quality of sex life. The result is an increased desire for sexual intimacy that improves a man's relationship with his partner and overall life satisfaction.