Erectile dysfunction, commonly known as ED, refers to the inability to attain and sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. As per a report, it is estimated that one in every ten men suffers from ED. The first step to identify the treatment options for ED involves finding the underlying cause. After that, an appropriate treatment method is decided. Treatment options for ED include both surgical and non-surgical ones.

Non-surgical treatment options for ED include:

1. Education and communication
A candid conversation with your partner may help uncover your anxieties and remove barriers to healthy sex life. Education about sex and sexual responses may help a man overcome concerns regarding sexual dysfunction.

2. Oral medications
Medicines such as sildenafil (Viagra) and vardenafil (Levitra and Staxyn) may help increase blood supply flow to the penis. However, men who are taking medicines containing nitrates to treat a heart condition or taking alpha-blockers to treat prostate enlargement should not take oral ED meds. The combination can cause low blood pressure.

3. Vacuum devices
A vacuum device is a cylinder that is pulled over the penis. The air is pumped out, drawing blood into the penis and causing an erection. The erection can be maintained for up to 30 minutes. It is a safe treatment option. However, discomfort and lack of spontaneity are a primary concern of patients.

4. Sex therapy
Even in the presence of a clear cause, there may be underlying factors contributing to erectile dysfunction. Sex therapy with a trained psychologist may help reduce a man’s fear, anxiety, or guilt. It may have a positive impact on sexual responses. Additionally, it may also help a partner to understand, address, and cope with the problem leading to better solutions.

5. Penile injections
Injections effectively treat several erection issues like those caused by nerves, blood vessels, and psychological conditions. A man is taught about how he can inject medication directly into the side of his penis. It relaxes the blood vessels, increasing the blood supply to the penis, helping to create an erection.

Surgical treatment options for ED options include:

1. Penile prosthesis surgery
The outpatient surgery involves the implantation of inflatable penile prostheses in the erection chambers of the penis. The prosthesis helps maintain the penile orgasm, ejaculation, and sensation in most men. On the flip side, there are chances of infection and device failure though complications are uncommon. Research by ScienceDirect states that it is standard gold therapy, as 95% of such surgeries have been successful for men to have satisfying intercourse.

It is recommended to discuss with a health care professional to treat the underlying causes of the ED. However, choosing suitable treatment options for ED is a personal decision. One can also talk with one’s partner to ease one’s anxiety and choose from the treatment options for ED.