Sexual Performance

Learn more about the causes of ED
and what you can do to prevent it.

The Problem

ED, or Erectile Dysfunction, is more common than you realize. And it can happen to men earlier in life than anyone expects. It is estimated 52% of males will experience some form of ED in their lifetime. While there is no “one treatment cure’s all”, improvements in science have allowed us to develop treatments that can combat the symptoms of ED.

52% of males will experience some form of ED in their lifetime.

The Causes

The physical cause of ED is either limited blood flow to the penis (which prevents it from hardening), an inability to retain blood, or nerve damage. Stress and emotions can also play a role in ED. However, it can also be a symptom of serious illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of arteries.

The Treatments

Tailored treatment options are available through Peak Health Group. Request an appointment with Dr. Aister below and get things back on track.

What is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s (pay-roe-NEEZ) disease is a noncancerous condition resulting from fibrous scar tissue that develops on the penis and causes curved, painful erections. Penises vary in shape and size, and having a curved erection isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. But Peyronie’s disease causes a significant bend or pain in some men.

This can prevent you from having sex or might make it difficult to get or maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction). For many men, Peyronie’s disease also causes stress and anxiety. Penile shortening is another common concern.

Peyronie’s disease rarely goes away on its own. In most men with Peyronie’s disease, the condition will remain as is or worsen. Early treatment soon after developing the condition may keep it from getting worse or even improve symptoms. Even if you’ve had the condition for some time, treatment may help improve bothersome symptoms, such as pain, curvature and penile shortening.

Symptoms

Peyronie’s disease signs and symptoms might appear suddenly or develop gradually. The most common signs and symptoms include:

  • Scar tissue. The scar tissue associated with Peyronie’s disease — called plaque but different from plaque that can build up in blood vessels — can be felt under the skin of the penis as flat lumps or a band of hard tissue.
  • A significant bend to the penis. Your penis might curve upward or downward or bend to one side.
  • Erection problems. Peyronie’s disease might cause problems getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction). But, often men report erectile dysfunction before the beginning of Peyronie’s disease symptoms.
  • Shortening of the penis. Your penis might become shorter as a result of Peyronie’s disease.
  • Pain. You might have penile pain, with or without an erection.
  • Other penile deformity. In some men with Peyronie’s disease, the erect penis might have narrowing, indentations or even an hourglass-like appearance, with a tight, narrow band around the shaft.

The curvature and penile shortening associated with Peyronie’s disease might gradually worsen. At some point, however, the condition typically stabilizes after three to 12 months or so.

Pain during erections usually improves within one to two years, but the scar tissue, penile shortening and curvature often remain. In some men, both the curvature and pain associated with Peyronie’s disease improve without treatment.

Treatments

We suggest scheduling a time with Dr. Aister to understand your bedroom problems better.

What is Premature Ejaculation?

Ejaculation is the expulsion of semen from the body. Premature ejaculation (PE) is when ejaculation happens sooner than a man or his partner would like during sex. PE is also known as rapid ejaculation, premature climax or early ejaculation. PE might not be a cause for worry. It can be frustrating if it makes sex less enjoyable and impacts relationships. If it happens often and causes problems, your health care provider can help.

In the U.S., about 1 in 3 men 18 to 59 years old have problems with PE. The problem is often thought to be psychological, but biology may also play a role.

Diagnosis

It is typical for men to be able to have at least some control of if and when they ejaculate during partnered sex and masturbation. If a man does not feel that he has control of when ejaculation occurs, and if there is worry by the man or his sexual partner(s), PE may be present.

When PE gets in the way of your sexual pleasure, you should see your health care provider. The diagnosis is determined by whether ejaculation occurs early, late, or not at all. Most often, your health care provider will diagnose PE after a physical exam and talking with you. Some questions he or she may ask are:

  • How often does PE happen?
  • How long have you had this problem?
  • Does this happen with just one partner, or all partners?
  • Does PE happen with each attempt at sex?
  • What type of sexual activity (i.e., foreplay, masturbation, intercourse, use of visual cues, etc.) do you take part in and how often?
  • How has PE changed your sexual activity?
  • How are your personal relationships?
  • Is there anything that makes PE worse or better (i.e., drugs, alcohol, etc.)?

Lab testing is only needed if your health care provider finds something during your physical exam.

Treatment

Psychological therapy, behavioral therapy, and drugs are the main treatments for PE. However, we suggest scheduling some time to talk with Dr. Aister and his team.