CONTENTS
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and how common is it in Singapore?
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is the inability to get or sustain an erection long enough for penetration. It is the most common sex problem that men report to their doctor. Based on a study by Singapore Medical Journal, 51.3% of Singaporean men will experience some form of ED in their lifetime. Though this is common, ED that is progressive or happens frequently with sex should be assessed and treated by a doctor.
What are the causes of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Most of the time, ED is usually caused by factors such as:
- Age
- Hormonal abnormalities i.e. low testosterone levels
- Chronic medical conditions such as Diabetes, Hypertension, High Cholesterol
- Medications such as beta-blockers, certain psychiatric medications
- Psychological factors i.e. stress, anxiety, depression
Sometimes, it may also be due to leakage of blood from veins in the penis.
How does an erection occur?
Erection is a complex bodily process. Upon some sexual stimulus, signals from the brain is sent to the nerves at the lower spinal cord resulting in increase of blood flow to the 2 sponge-like tissues on each side of the penis.
This compresses on the veins on the outer covering of the penis preventing blood from flowing out of the penis, thus maintaining the erection.
What should I do if I think I have Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
If you are experiencing symptoms as above suggesting that you have ED, it is important to consult a doctor who will assess the possible causes and discuss the available treatment options targeting the causes of your ED.
What are the available treatment options?
There are several treatment options for ED and some are more effective for particular causes of ED. Depending on the cause, these are some treatment types:
- Vacuum devices and ring constrictors help with maintaining the erection by preventing blood from flowing out
- Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors – Viagra, Cialis or Levitra (tablets)
- Electroshockwave therapy – useful in cases where blood vessel abnormality may be the cause of the ED such as in cases of people having high blood pressure or diabetes or heart blockage
- Testosterone replacement – useful in cases of ED due to low testosterone.
- Caverject injection
- Penile implants – surgery
Conclusion
If you suspect that you are suffering from Erectile Dysfunction, speak to us at Boon Lay Clinic & Surgery to learn more about available treatment options.
Click to learn more about other men’s health conditions.
Boon Lay Clinic & Surgery
Boon Lay Clinic & Surgery is a primary care clinic brand under Singapore Paincare Holdings Limited; the goal is to bring affordable medical treatments to the heartland areas.
Led by Dr. Julian Ng, Boon Lay Clinic & Surgery provides chronic disease management, men’s health (men’s HIV & STD screening), women’s health, health screenings, vaccinations, corporate healthcare, medical examinations (maid/ employment permit/insurance/student pass).
Address: 221 Boon Lay Place, #01-240 Singapore 640221
Contact number: +65 6265 5247
