Erectile Dysfunction

• Did you know erectile problems are common following pelvic surgery?
• Did you know, exercises to improve your pelvic floor can improve your erectile function?
• Did you know that premature ejaculation is the most common sexual dysfunction in men, affecting 30% of men worldwide?

What is Erectile Dysfunction??

Inability to gain and maintain an erection is common, especially as men age. It affects 1 in 5 men over 40. Sexual dysfunction has the potential to impact your self-confidence and quality of life, as well as your relationship.

There are many factors affecting sexual dysfunction including prostate surgery, radiation therapy, trauma or abuse, psychological or lifestyle factors, bladder issues such as urgency or frequency, and interference with nerve function in conditions such as spinal cord trauma, Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s Disease.

As a profession, research is helping us to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanism by which our pelvic floor muscle function can impact on and improve the ability to gain and maintain an erection. Our highly experienced Men’s Health Physiotherapy team can provide you with advice, education and treatment for your pelvic floor, bladder and bowel health to improve your erectile dysfunction symptoms.

Not only do the pelvic floor muscles help in achieving and maintaining an erection, they also help to regulate erectile function. Some pelvic floor muscles are responsible for delaying ejaculation. Building the strength, control and endurance of these muscles can allow you to delay ejaculation and gain control of your sexual function. Other pelvic floor muscles are responsible for the formation, maintenance and climax of an erection. Learning appropriate activation techniques and coordination of these muscles helps improve erectile quality and function.

Common Symptoms

• Difficulty maintaining an erection
• Difficulty achieving an erection
• Difficulty with maintaining an adequate erection to allow for penetration
• Premature ejaculation

How can we Help?

Research has shown that premature ejaculation symptoms can improve or even be cured with pelvic floor muscle training and education from a physiotherapist. Erectile dysfunction symptoms often accompany premature ejaculation.

There is evidence that pelvic floor exercise can help improve erectile dysfunction. Your physiotherapist will provide you with a specific pelvic floor exercise program, tailored to your individual needs. Learning to use your pelvic floor muscles, when you need them, is crucial to achieving peak erectile function. Our physiotherapists will also advise you on maintaining a consistent exercise program and diet to optimise your erectile function. Pelvic floor muscle training is only part of the picture of erectile recovery. Your physiotherapist can put you in contact with other helpful health professionals, as required.

What to Expect From my Appointment?

• Detailed Interview to fully understand your symptoms, medical and surgical history and your specific goals.
• Physical Assessment of your body, and pelvic floor using the latest technologies.
• Targeted Treatments including Diagnostic Transperineal Ultrasound to facilitate pelvic floor muscle activation, manual therapy and comprehensive advice and education.
• Progressive Exercise Program to assist you not only with your pelvic floor strength and endurance, but with your general fitness, health and well-being.
• Communication and Collaboration with your Urologist and General Practitioner to keep them informed of your progress and to support your care.