All men will experience erectile dysfunction (ED) at some point in their lives. Rare or very occasional impotence is normal, but when the erectile dysfunction is persistent, it's a cause for concern. That's when it's a good idea to consult a physician or men's health specialist such as Dr. Larry Lipshultz. He has helped men throughout the greater Houston area learn more about various causes and treatment options of erectile dysfunction.

How common is erectile dysfunction caused by psychological issues?

It's estimated that between 10% to 20% of all cases of erectile dysfunction are caused by psychological matters. Other matters can also contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes, hypertension, drug use, the side effects of medication, and so forth.

Below are five common psychological causes of erectile dysfunction.

Cause #1: Stress

All kinds of stress can affect your overall health and wellness, which includes your ability to maintain an erection. The source of this stress may be your job/career, your finances, the nature of your relationship with your sexual partner, and so on. Sensations of guilt may be bundled up in this stress as well.

Cause #2: Anxiety/Performance Anxiety

Another common cause of erectile dysfunction related is anxiety or performance anxiety, a distinct matter from stress per se. Performance anxiety means that a man is so worried about potential impotence that he experiences erectile dysfunction during sexual activity due to this fixation or preoccupation.

Cause #3: Depression

Depression can lead to difficulty performing many activities, which includes day-to-day activities and even sexual activity. Many people who suffer from depression will experience problems with erectile dysfunction as a result.

Cause #4: Poor Self-Esteem

If a man has issues with his own self-confidence and self-image, these self-esteem issues can result in problems maintaining an erection. This may be related to depression or related to body image problems and so forth.

Cause #5: Loss of Interest In Sex or Sexual Partner

Sometimes a man may lose interest in his partner or even in sex itself. In these cases, the loss of interest may be related to the state of his relationship, a loss of attraction to the partner, or it may be due to other problems unrelated to the relationship and partner per se.

Consider Your Options for ED Treatment

When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction, it's of the utmost importance that you consult with your general physician about what may be causing your erectile dysfunction. You can then meet with Dr. Lipshultz to more carefully assess your situation.

If your erectile dysfunction is primarily related to psychological factors, therapy or counseling may be all that is required to help you work through these problems. Talking with your partner is also helpful and may ease stress and anxiety.

It's not uncommon for a patient to undergo psychological counseling in combination with medication or lifestyle modification (i.e., exercise, quitting smoking, relaxation techniques). The latter may be especially helpful for people who suffer from low self-esteem or depression. Each treatment will be carefully tailored to your needs given the causes of your erectile dysfunction and your current situation.

Discuss Erectile Dysfunction and Your Treatment Options

If you would like more information on your treatment options for erectile dysfunction, we encourage you to contact our men's health center today. Dr. Larry Lipshultz will listen to your situation and provide you with ample information about your options for treatment.