Impact of erectile dysfunction on emotions and relationship

Whether the causes of male impotence are physiological or psychological, the patient and his partner will always experience a wide range of feelings and emotions. Any of these feelings can lead to low self-esteem, which further increases the likelihood of impotence. Feelings of insecurity reinforce performance anxiety and create a vicious cycle of repeated failures and bad feelings. The psychological effects of male impotence can then enter every aspect of a man’s life, from his relationship with his sexual partner, to his social interactions and even his job performance.

Men who are suffering from impotence often isolate themselves from their relationships. Erectile dysfunction can be embarrassing to talk about. Partners of men with ED feel that initiating a discussion regarding the situation will cause embarrassment and humiliation. The partner may also develop a sense of inadequacy, thinking the cause of ED is their fault and that they are no longer physically attractive. In most cases, ED is a result of physical causes but it can be made much worse by psychological factors. Silence, embarrassment, and feelings of inadequacy and humiliation only lead to further withdrawal on the part of both partners, increasing the distance and tension within the relationship. The anxiety which results can easily make a case of ED worse, leading to a vicious circle of failure and anxiety about such failure.

ED can ultimately lead to the break down of a relationship or family.
It is important for a man to feel as comfortable as possible discussing his condition with his partner as well as his physician, in order to consider suitable treatment options and minimize the likelihood adverse effects on the relationship.