Erectile Dysfunction – When the Problem is all in the Head

When things go awry in the bedroom for a man, the problem is often attributed to the physical health of the penis.  While it is true that conditions such as blood pressure, diabetes, heart health or other problems with the plumbing can contribute to a less than Oscar-worthy performance between the sheets, there may also be psychological factors at play. Psychological factors account for about 10-20% of all cases of erectile dysfunction.  Additionally, some problems that originate as a one-time physical issue can actually turn into a recurring psychological problem.  Maintaining proper penis health and learning not to sweat the small stuff may help keep self-confidence in the bedroom high and erections firm.

Performance Anxiety

Performance anxiety is a psychological issue that many men will suffer from on occasion; however, it becomes a problem when an overwhelming sense of anxiety is associated with doing the deed, thus reducing both performance and pleasure.  Some men are so concerned about making their partner see fireworks that they essentially psych themselves out, which is a sure-fire way for the evening to become a disappointing dud.  The big problem with performance anxiety is that it feeds upon itself and can set the stage for a negative self-fulfilling prophecy. 

Imagine the following scenario: a man and women have evening plans that are sure to lead to an intimate encounter, but the man is up the night before worried about the big date, which leaves him tired and sluggish the next day at work.  He then falls behind at work, gets yelled at by his boss and has a skyrocketing stress level all day long.  When the big date finally comes, he is feeling tired and he doesn’t bring his A-game to the bedroom that night.  His partner, meaning well, comments, “It’s okay, it happens to lots of guys.”  Classic line, right?  This now gets stuck in his head, and he becomes determined to do better the next night; however, now there is pressure to outdo his performance, and he falters again, further reducing his self-confidence.  The pattern may continue to repeat itself, as the man now has a fear of failure in the bedroom. Thus, what started as a physical problem has now become the psychological problem of performance anxiety.

Small Penis Syndrome

Many guys have wondered how they measure up in the manhood department, and while for most it may just be a simple question of curiosity, for others it can take on an entirely new state of mind, even to the point of obsession.  Small Penis Syndrome is a state of mind in which men who have a physically adequate size penis are convinced that their penis is too small and reach a state of depression and shame regarding their member.  They become obsessed with the idea that they cannot please their partner sexually and may even be fearful of being nude with another person.  Men with this syndrome often seek out unnecessary medical consultations, and may even elect to have penis-lengthening surgery.

Other Psychological factors

Several other psychological factors can negatively affect a man’s sexual health and performance.  Depression, excessive stress, guilt, shame, low self-esteem and loss of interest can all contribute to ED.  Feeling bad about one’s skills in the bedroom and even the appearance of one’s love-stick can also lead to to low self-esteem and reduce one’s level of confidence.

 Maintaining Sexual Health

Just as ED from physical causes can be treated, so can ED stemming from psychological stressors.  For persistent cases of depression, anxiety or Small Penis Syndrome, psychotherapy conducted by a trained counselor has been shown to be effective in treating ED with a psychological etiology

Additionally, engaging in positive coping mechanisms, maintaining good physical health, getting regular exercise, and eating right can all keep the body in peak physical condition. The daily use of a penis vitamin creme (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also increase sensitivity, and improve the look and feel of the penis, which may enhance ones’ self-esteem and self-confidence in the bedroom.