Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection.
In the UK it is estimated that around half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 suffer from ED at some point in their lives.
But there could be a very good reason you’ve been struggling to get it up.
Some evidence suggests certain modern-day medicines and products are lowering men’s testosterone levels, resulting in an epidemic of man boobs, premature balding and ED.
Testosterone is the key male sex hormone. It’s responsible for stimulating sperm production, controlling sex drive, building muscle and bone mass.
But it’s not just diminishing testosterone levels impacting your erection. Studies suggest that these three things could be the reason for your bedroom woes:
1. Antidepressant medication
Antidepressants can be a lifeline for people suffering from mental health issues, but they can also cause other medical issues like ED.
The reason for this unfortunate side effect is that antidepressants change the levels of our nervous system’s chemical messengers, such as serotonin and dopamine.
This can cause a dampening of sensitivity of the sexual organs and can result in loss of erection.
2. Snoring
A German study found a link between snoring and ED. The scientist discovered that men who snore excessively are also more like to struggle getting it up.
They believe this is because both the maintenance of an open airway and ensuring sufficient blood flow to the penis rely on the same biological mechanism.
So the more your man snores, the less likely he is to get and maintain an erection.
3. Cycling
Cycling is a great form of cardio and can be extremely good for your health as it burns calories and strengthens your heart.
However, prolonged bouts of cycling can be bad news for your penis. This is because when men are cycling they put the bulk of their weight on the perineum, the bit of skin between the anus and the testicles.
Since the perineum acts as a conduit for the nerves and blood vessels supplying the penis, its prolonged compression can evoke erectile dysfunction.
Men who spend three or more hours in the saddle every week are more at-risk.
