Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is more common than you might think, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s a condition that affects millions of men, and understanding the causes and signs of ED can help you take control of your health.

At Victory Men’s Health, we specialize in helping men overcome erectile dysfunction and regain their confidence. Today, our experts are breaking down the signs of ED, its causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options you can look into with the help of your healthcare provider. 

What happens when you have erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction occurs when a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. It’s normal for this to happen occasionally, but if it becomes a frequent issue, it’s not just an uncomfortable inconvenience – it could indicate an underlying health problem. 

ED can affect your self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life, which is why it’s important to not sweep this problem under the rug.

Did you know ED is often a symptom of another health condition and not just a standalone issue?

When you have ED, your blood flow, hormones, nerves, or psychological state may be affected. Achieving an erection involves several physical and mental components. When any of these elements are disrupted, it can lead to erectile dysfunction.

Recognizing the signs early can help you seek treatment and improve your overall health.

Let’s be real – what causes erectile dysfunction (ED)?

ED can result from a variety of physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Identifying these causes and recognizing the potential risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing ED can help in managing and preventing it. Let’s take a look at the common causes and risk factors associated with erectile dysfunction. 

What can cause ED?

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to ED.
• Obesity: Excess weight can affect hormone levels and blood flow.
• High Blood Pressure: This can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis.
• High Cholesterol: Similar to high blood pressure, it can lead to blood vessel damage.
• Heart Disease: Reduced blood flow from clogged arteries can prevent an erection.

Less likely, but you may still consider the following:

• Metabolic Syndrome or Obesity: A cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high insulin levels, and obesity can increase the risk of ED.
• Parkinson’s Disease: This neurological disorder can affect nerve signals and blood flow.
• Multiple Sclerosis: It can disrupt nerve signals to the penis.
• Peyronie’s Disease: This condition causes scar tissue to develop in the penis, leading to painful erections.

We can’t overlook how stress affects ED.

When it comes to erectile dysfunction, stress and anxiety can really get in the way. High levels of stress can mess with your ability to get or keep an erection. Depression is another big factor—it can make you lose interest in sex altogether, which doesn’t help. 

And let’s not forget about relationship problems. If you’re not communicating well or there’s unresolved conflict with your partner, it can seriously impact your sexual performance.

While these may seem obvious, sometimes they can be the most difficult to address.

Lifestyle factors play a role, too:

• Smoking: It can damage blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis.
• Alcohol Use: Excessive drinking can lead to ED.
• Drug Use: Illegal drugs can impair sexual function.

Are you at risk for ED?

Wondering if you’re at risk for ED? Let’s look at some of the risk factors. 

• Age: As men get older, the risk of ED increases.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and heart disease can increase the risk. Surgeries, especially those for prostate cancer, can also put you at risk.
• Medications: Some medications can cause ED as a side effect.
• Injuries: Injuries that affect the pelvic area or spinal cord can lead to ED.
• Psychological Conditions: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can increase the risk.
• Lifestyle Choices: This includes things like smoking, inactivity, and the overuse of pornography. 

What does ED feel like?

Recognizing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction is the first step toward improving your sexual health. While the primary symptom is difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, other signs may indicate ED, such as feeling less satisfied by intercourse, difficulty achieving an orgasm, erections that aren’t as strong as they used to be, a decreased interest in sexual activity, and fewer erections – especially in the morning. 

If you’re dealing with these symptoms and they don’t go away, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your ED so you can find the right treatment plan for your specific needs. 

How we diagnose ED effectively.

Diagnosing erectile dysfunction involves more than just a discussion about your symptoms. You’ll need a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to identify the underlying causes and figure out the best course of treatment. 

Here’s what you can expect.

• Medical History: Your provider will ask about your health history, including any underlying medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors.
• Physical Examination: A physical exam to check for any physical causes of ED. This isn’t typically necessary for our patients but may be included depending on your history and specific concerns.
• Blood Tests: Tests to check for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and low testosterone levels.
• Psychological Exam: Your provider may ask questions to screen for depression, anxiety, and other psychological causes of ED.

At Victory Men’s Health, our goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation that combines your medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. This approach helps us tailor a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your health, ensuring you receive the most effective care possible. 

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better sexual health and overall well-being.

Treatment Options for ED

At Victory Men’s Health, we offer a range of effective treatment options for erectile dysfunction, starting with non-invasive treatments that can be really effective. Here’s an overview of the treatment options we offer for ED: 

1. PDE-5 Inhibitors such as Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil)
2. Wave Therapy
3. Priapus Shot
4. Vacuum Pumps
5. Trimix Injections
6. Testosterone Therapy

PDE-5 Inhibitors

PDE-5 Inhibitors such as Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil) are commonly prescribed to increase blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain an erection. 

Wave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses low-intensity sound waves to stimulate blood vessel growth and improve blood flow to the penis. Wave Therapy is a great option for men seeking a natural way to enhance erectile function without medication.

Priapus Shot

This innovative treatment involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the penis to promote tissue regeneration and improve blood flow. The P-Shot can enhance sensitivity, increase firmness, and improve your overall erectile function.

Vacuum Pumps

These devices create an erection by drawing blood into the penis through suction, then placing a constriction ring at the base of the penis to maintain the erection. Vacuum pumps are a reliable and drug-free option for managing ED, and can also be used on a regular basis outside of intimacy as an exercise to improve blood flow and function.

Trimix Injections

This potent combination of three medications (alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine) is injected directly into the penis to induce an erection. Trimix Injections are known to be highly effective, even for men who do not respond to oral medications.

Testosterone Therapy (TRT)

For men with low testosterone levels, Testosterone Therapy can significantly improve libido and erectile function. By restoring your testosterone to optimal levels, TRT helps address underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to ED.

When to See a Healthcare Provider for ED

If you notice persistent symptoms of ED, it’s time to see a healthcare provider who specializes in men’s health issues such as erectile dysfunction. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can prevent complications and improve your overall health.

Next Steps With Victory Men’s Health

Erectile dysfunction is a common issue that many men face, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. If you’re experiencing signs of ED, our team is here for you. At Victory Men’s Health, we’re dedicated to helping you regain your confidence and improve your quality of life through personalized care. 

Ready to take the first step towards better health? Contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

Once you’ve had your prostate removed, you’re likely to experience erectile dysfunction (ED). At Victory Men’s Health, we get it – dealing with side effects like ED can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. With the right support, you can handle your recovery like a pro. 

In this blog post on prostatectomy recovery, our men’s health experts will break down what a prostatectomy involves, why it’s done, the side effects you might face, and most importantly, how to optimize your recovery and avoid long-term ED or impotence.

What is a prostatectomy?

Your prostate is a walnut-shaped gland below your bladder that adds fluid to semen and helps to push semen through your urethra. A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of this gland, typically performed to treat localized prostate cancer. 

Radical prostatectomy is surgery to remove the entire prostate gland, along with surrounding lymph nodes. There are two main types of prostatectomy your healthcare provider may recommend: 

• Robotic Prostatectomy – This minimally invasive procedure uses robotic technology to assist the surgeon in removing your prostate. It offers the benefits of smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery time.

• Open Prostatectomy – This traditional approach involves a larger incision to remove the prostate gland. While it may be medically necessary in some cases, an open prostatectomy generally involves a longer recovery period.

No matter which type of prostatectomy you undergo, you will most likely experience some degree of ED during the recovery. 

Why would I get my prostate removed?

The most common reason for prostatectomy, or prostate removal, is to treat prostate cancer. By removing the prostate, doctors aim to eliminate the cancer and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. Less common reasons for prostate removal may include the following: 

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
• Severe urinary symptoms
• Other prostate-related conditions that do not respond to less invasive treatments.

All men will likely experience ED after prostate removal.

While a prostatectomy can be life-saving, it’s important to understand the potential side effects. One of the most significant concerns for men undergoing this procedure is the risk of erectile dysfunction. 

Nearly all men will experience some ED in the first few months after treatment. 

However, with intact nerves and proper recovery strategies, most men experience major improvements in their erectile function within a year.

Other potential side effects include:

• Urinary Incontinence – Loss of bladder control can occur after surgery.
• Changes in Urinary Function – This may include increased frequency, urgency, or difficulty urinating.
• Changes in Sexual Function – Aside from ED, there can be changes in orgasmic function or libido. The prostate is responsible for producing ejaculatory fluid, so post-prostatectomy a man can orgasm, but will not ejaculate.
• Infertility – Removal of the prostate can sometimes lead to infertility, as the sperm is reabsorbed through the body instead of ejaculated.
• Bowel Dysfunction – In rare cases, bowel problems can occur.

Prostatectomy Recovery: What to Expect

Recovery from a prostatectomy varies from person to person, but here are some general expectations to be aware of. 

• Hospital Stay: Most prostatectomy patients stay in the hospital for one to two days following the surgery.
• Catheter Use: You’ll likely need to use a catheter for a week or two to help with urination while your body heals.
• Activity Level: It’s important to limit physical activity for a few weeks, gradually increasing as your body recovers.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

How to Optimize Your Recovery and Avoid ED

Recovering from a prostatectomy can be a challenging journey, but with the right strategies, you can optimize your recovery and minimize the risk of erectile dysfunction. Here at Victory Men’s Health, we believe in taking a proactive approach to your health. 

By following a few key steps, you can enhance your recovery process and improve your overall well-being.

• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Start practicing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which can help improve urinary control and sexual function.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a nutritious diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Medications: Your provider may prescribe ED medications like PDE-5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis) to help improve erectile function. Specifically, daily 5mg Cialis (tadalafil) is often used and can also help with urination. Studies also show that it can help prevent lost of penile length post-prostatectomy. 
• Physical Therapy: Consider physical therapy specifically designed for pelvic floor rehabilitation.
• Vacuum Pump Device: A penis pump is an often overlooked penile rehabilitation tool. Doing this as an exercise after prostatectomy can help men regain function and decrease the risk of penile shrinkage. 

What do I do if I get ED after prostatectomy?

Experiencing erectile dysfunction after a prostatectomy can be frustrating. However, it’s important to remember that there are several effective treatments available to help you regain your sexual function. At Victory Men’s Health, we offer a comprehensive range of therapies to address ED and support your recovery.

The following treatment options are available if you get ED after prostatectomy: 

1. PDE-5 Inhibitors
2. Wave Therapy
3. Priapus Shot
4. Vacuum Pumps
5. Trimix Injections
6. Testosterone Therapy 

PDE-5 Inhibitors

Medications such as Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil) are often the first line of treatment for ED and are most effective when started immediately following surgery, according to Dr. Yablonsky with Victory Men’s Health. These drugs work by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping to achieve and maintain an erection.

Wave Therapy

Wave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to improve blood flow and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the penis, enhancing erectile function.

Priapus Shot

Also known as the P-Shot, this treatment involves injecting your platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the penis to promote tissue growth and improve blood flow.

Vacuum Pumps

A vacuum erection device creates a vacuum around your penis, drawing blood into it and helping to achieve an erection. If you’re looking for a non-invasive option, vacuum pumps can be an effective choice.

Trimix Injections

This treatment involves injecting a combination of medications (formulated for you as an individual) directly into the penis, producing a strong and reliable erection. It’s particularly useful for men who don’t respond to oral medications. Trimix can be used as needed and you can stop at any time if function improves over the recovery process. Most men have great success with this medication and quickly get over the fear of a needle when they see how well it works.

Testosterone Therapy

For men with low testosterone levels, testosterone therapy (TRT) can improve libido and erectile function. If you’re considering TRT, our team will assess your hormone levels and create a personalized treatment plan to optimize your sexual health.

Prostatectomy FAQ

What are the odds of having erectile dysfunction after prostatectomy?

Nearly all men experience some degree of erectile dysfunction immediately following a prostatectomy. However, most men see significant improvement within a year.

How long does erectile dysfunction last after prostate surgery?

ED can last for several months to a year or more after prostate surgery. Recovery time varies from patient to patient, but it’s best to work with experienced men’s health providers who can monitor your progress and tailor a treatment plan for your specific needs.

How painful is the recovery from a prostatectomy?

Pain levels can vary, but many of the men who come to us for help after a prostatectomy report manageable pain that can be controlled with medication. Minimally invasive procedures like robotic prostatectomy generally result in less pain and quicker recovery times.

Can you live a normal life after prostate removal?

Yes! Many men live normal, fulfilling lives after prostate removal. With effective management and support, you can recover well and regain your quality of life.

What is the most common problem after prostatectomy?

Erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence are the most common problems following a prostatectomy, but our team can help you address these issues and find solutions.

Can you still have an erection if your prostate is removed?

Yes. It is absolutely possible to have erections after prostate removal, especially if the nerve-sparing technique is used during surgery. If you had some degree of ED prior to your surgery, you’re more likely to have greater trouble post-surgery than someone who has never previously experienced ED. 

We go into this in detail with board-certified urologist Dr. Eric Kim in our Women Want Strong Men podcast episode on Demystifying the Prostate, which you can listen to below. 

How can I improve my erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery?

Practicing pelvic floor exercises, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, taking prescribed medications, and seeking ED treatments can all help improve ED after prostate surgery.

Why would a man have his prostate removed?

The primary reason for prostate removal is to treat localized prostate cancer. Other reasons may include severe urinary symptoms or benign prostatic hyperplasia that does not respond to other treatments.

Next Steps With Victory Men’s Health

Navigating prostatectomy recovery can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Victory Men’s Health, we’re dedicated to helping you regain your confidence and quality of life as quickly as possible. 

If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction after prostatectomy or have any concerns about your recovery, our team is here to provide personalized support and guidance. Contact us today to take the first step toward reclaiming your sexual health. 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes are two prevalent, treatable issues that many men encounter, particularly as they age. But how are these conditions interconnected, and can you treat one without negatively impacting the other? Today, we’ll delve into the complex relationship between ED and diabetes, examine various treatment options, and offer strategies for managing both conditions effectively.

If you’re new here, hello! We are Victory Men’s Health, and we’re here to help you navigate these challenges.

We offer a comprehensive range of services to support men’s health and well-being. Our offerings include hormone optimization, testosterone replacement therapy, personalized nutrition plans, advanced weight management strategies, and ED treatments such as wave therapy, oral and injectable medications, and the P-Shot. 

Many of our patients experience both erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes simultaneously. We’re happy to report that even with diabetes, ED is treatable

Does diabetes cause ED?

Not necessarily. The connection between diabetes and erectile dysfunction (ED) is complex. Diabetes happens when there’s not enough insulin or when your body becomes resistant to it, leading to high blood sugar levels. This can be caused by autoimmune disease, obesity, genetics, lack of exercise, or poor diet. The tricky part is that diabetes often goes unnoticed until it starts causing significant damage to your organs. 

Uncontrolled diabetes will increase the risk of the disease affecting your blood vessels and causing damage that can lead to ED. 

However, even borderline diabetes can start inflammatory processes that lead to poor blood vessel health and erectile dysfunction. One part of this process is the loss of nitric oxide production that occurs with diabetes or insulin resistance. Nitric oxide is essential for the blood vessels to appropriately dilate and will be deficient in diabetics.

Many men with diabetes also deal with high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, which just makes ED even worse.

How Does ED Affect Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes?

Erectile dysfunction can impact men with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but the causes and how common it is can vary between the two types. The level of control that you have over your diabetes will also influence your long-term health outcomes and sexual health. 

A normal hemoglobin A1C, which is the average of your blood sugar over the past 3 months and the test used to diagnose diabetes, is under 5.6%. 5.7-6.4% is pre-diabetes and over 6.5% is considered diabetes. The higher this number, the more likely a person is to have complications of the disease.

In type 1 diabetes, which is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, ED can arise from long-term complications associated with poorly controlled blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar can cause significant damage to both nerves and blood vessels. This damage impairs blood flow and nerve function, which are crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection, leading to erectile dysfunction in men with type 1 diabetes.

In type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and factors like obesity and hypertension play a more significant role in causing erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, this type of diabetes can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, depending on the severity of the condition.

At Victory Men’s Health, we offer therapies that can help you manage or reverse type 2 diabetes through weight loss and lifestyle modifications. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you not only manage your diabetes but also improve your overall health and well-being.

Diabetes can affect your testosterone, too.

Insulin resistance is the main reason why testosterone might be lower in someone with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, can significantly impact testosterone levels in men, leading to a condition known as hypogonadism. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, decreased libido, reduced muscle mass, and mood changes. 

In type 1 diabetes, SHBG (a binding protein) may be higher which can lead to lower free testosterone. For men with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and related factors like obesity and hypertension can further contribute to low testosterone.

At Victory Men’s Health, we recognize the intricate link between diabetes and hormonal health. Our team is dedicated to helping you manage both conditions through personalized treatment plans that include hormone optimization, weight management, and lifestyle modifications. 

By tackling both diabetes and low testosterone head-on, we’re confident that we can find a solution that addresses your testosterone levels and ED, specifically tailored to your diabetes diagnosis.

I have diabetes and ED – what’s my first step?

Treating erectile dysfunction and diabetes simultaneously requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and symptoms of both conditions. At Victory Men’s Health, we believe in not only providing medications and treatments but also tackling the root causes of these symptoms. For diabetes, lifestyle management is a highly effective tool to reduce your reliance on medication and alleviate symptoms like ED.

If you’re experiencing ED, here are the treatment options we would explore as part of your treatment plan.

• Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Low testosterone levels can contribute to ED. We offer various forms of TRT, including creams, injections, and pellets. For more information, check out our blog post on choosing the right testosterone method for you.
  
  
• Hormone Optimization: Balancing other hormones can also play a significant role in managing ED and diabetes. Our hormone optimization services are designed to ensure your body functions at its best.
  
  
• Wave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses high-frequency acoustic waves to open up old blood vessels and stimulate the formation of new ones. This improves blood flow, resulting in stronger and more sustainable erections. Wave therapy is particularly beneficial for men with diabetes, as it addresses the vascular issues that often accompany the condition.
  
  
• PDE-5 Inhibitors: We prescribe medications (the ones you’ve likely heard of) that are well-known treatments for ED. These medications work by increasing blood flow, helping to enhance sexual performance and maintain function.
  
  
• Nutritional and Supplement Support: We provide personalized nutritional plans and recommend supplements that can help manage diabetes and improve sexual health. Our experts can guide you on which vitamins and minerals are essential for your well-being. Your diet will directly influence your blood sugar levels and therefore, your sexual health improvements.

• Nitric Oxide Supplementation: A necessary molecule for our blood flow and circulation, this is essential to replace when treating ED.

• Trimix Injection: This is an injectable medication that can be customized to the patient, providing immediate and reliable results. 

• Priapus Shot: This is a non-surgical procedure using your body’s own cells to improve the function and appearance of your penis.

• Vacuum Pump Device: This helps with ED by creating a vacuum around the penis, which increases blood flow and causes an erection.

At Victory Men’s Health, we are committed to finding a solution that addresses testosterone levels, ED, and your diabetes diagnosis. By combining lifestyle changes, hormone optimization, advanced therapies, and medications, we strive to enhance your overall health and well-being.

Which is the priority: ED or diabetes?

When managing both diabetes and erectile dysfunction, controlling diabetes should be the primary focus. Proper management of blood sugar levels can prevent further damage to blood vessels and nerves, thereby reducing the risk and severity of ED. 

Once diabetes is under control, treatments for ED can be more effective.

How Do Insulin and Metformin Affect ED?

Insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, which is essential for normal sexual function. In men with diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin (type 1) or becomes resistant to it (type 2). For type 2 diabetics, Metformin is a popular medication that has proven to be useful in regulating blood sugar levels.

Improving insulin sensitivity improves overall health, which in turn can enhance sexual performance. Managing your blood sugar effectively is vital to improving your ED.

How Does Weight Loss Affect ED?

Weight loss can have a profound impact on erectile dysfunction, especially in men with diabetes. Losing weight improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and enhances cardiovascular health, all contributing to better blood flow and sexual performance. Managing your weight is essential for improving ED.

This is why we work with you on a personalized weight loss plan, often including Semaglutide, which is highly effective for those with Type 2 diabetes. Remember, it’s not Semaglutide that directly fixes ED; it’s the weight loss and improved health that result from it.

ED & diabetes go hand in hand, and we’re here to help.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and diabetes are closely connected, with each condition impacting the other. Here at Victory Men’s Health, we help men every day who are dealing with ED due to diabetes. By focusing on comprehensive diabetes management and offering innovative treatments like Wave Therapy, we help men get their sexual health back on track and feel better overall.

If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to erectile dysfunction that is also harder to treat. Therefore, restoring diminished blood flow through treatments like Wave Therapy should be done as soon as possible. Remember, managing diabetes effectively is the first step towards improving erectile function.

Our goal is to restore your confidence and assure you that faith is not lost in treating both simultaneously. With your diabetes managed, treating ED becomes easier and more straightforward. Contact us today to begin your journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life.