Valentine's Day Serves as Recognition Day for Erectile Dysfunction Sufferers
It's no secret why February 14th is shared by both Valentine's Day and National Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Awareness Day. After all, sex often serves as the cherry on top of Valentine's Day celebrations, and ED is quite prevalent, affecting around 18% of men, or approximately 30 million individuals[1]. Despite being so common, there continues to be a stigma surrounding ED, making open discussions about the condition challenging for many men.
Enter Joseph Amabile, better known as "Grocery Store Joe," who wants to help change the narrative. Partnering with Haleon, a company that markets Eroxon, a newly FDA-cleared over-the-counter gel for ED, Amabile is aiming to destigmatize ED[2]. Amabile, a man who's no stranger to the spotlight, having competed on shows like The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise, and Dancing with the Stars, shared that "talking about ED has been taboo. Most men are embarrassed. Everyone wants to be able to perform in the bedroom."[2]
But let's dispel the myth that you can always get an erection on demand. Just like Netflix, your performance isn't necessarily on-demand. All men struggle with getting an erection from time to time[3]. An erection is a complex process that starts with sexual excitement and involves the relaxation of pelvic nerves and smooth muscles, allowing blood to rush into the penis and fill its spongy tubes. Finally, a membrane around these tubes keeps blood trapped to maintain the erection. ED occurs when something interrupts this process[3].
Common causes of ED range from stress and anxiety to nerve damage and cardiovascular disease[6]. And as men age, the odds of experiencing these conditions increase. Recent studies have even suggested that COVID-19 might contribute to ED[6]. That being said, don't lose hope. There are numerous solutions available to address ED, including oral medications like Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, as well as devices like penis pumps and injections. Always consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any treatment, however.
While some may feel discussing ED with partners is a downer, consider the benefits of openness. It can help build stronger relationships and even make you more attractive. The key is being vulnerable and communicative, recognizing that everyone has their struggles and that vulnerability shows strength and inner confidence. Plus, it can help you both explore potential solutions.
Unfortunately, not all ED solutions are legit. Always be wary of late-night TV commercials and TikTok ads promising miracle cures. Many of these treatments have not been approved or overseen by the FDA, potentially containing dangerous ingredients or utilizing unsafe devices.
In the end, remember that experiencing ED is not a personal failure. Don't aspire to be a robot, as they can't crumble under the same pressures we do. Embrace your human challenges and work towards finding solutions instead. As always, communicate with your partner and healthcare professional to navigate this common concern.
Amabile, having appeared on shows like The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise, and Dancing with the Stars, is partnering with Haleon to destigmatize ED and promote Eroxon, an FDA-cleared over-the-counter gel for ED. Although ED affects around 18% of men, or approximately 30 million individuals, there's a persistent stigma surrounding the condition, making open discussions challenging. On Valentine's Day, often considered the cherry on top of romantic celebrations, both Valentine's Day and National Erectile Dysfunction Awareness Day share the same date. Despite its prevalence, ED remains a taboo topic for many men, with Amabile noting that many are embarrassed to discuss it.
Valentine's Day might bring the expectation of consistent sexual performance, but it's important to remember that it's not always on-demand. Disputing the myth of perpetual function, Amabile and healthcare professionals clarify that male sexual performance is as complex as Netflix's streaming options, with countless factors influencing it. ED can be caused by numerous reasons such as stress, anxiety, nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, and even COVID-19. To address this issue, men have various solutions at their disposal, including prescription medications and devices, but it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before attempting any treatment.
While discussing ED might feel discouraging, it can actually bring benefits to relationships, such as building trust and mutual understanding. Openness and vulnerability can make you more attractive and can provide mutual exploration for potential solutions. However, be cautious when investigating ED treatments online, as many unregulated treatments could potentially contain harmful ingredients and products.
In the quest to combat ED, don't view it as a personal failure or an inability to perform. Instead, embrace the human experience and work together with your partner and healthcare professional to find effective solutions. By reframing the perspective on ED, more men may feel comfortable addressing the issue and destigmatizing it in society. Recognize that everyone struggles with different challenges, and openness can show strength and inner confidence, leading to stronger relationships and mutual growth.
