How Men Over 40 Can Overcome ED and Reignite Intimacy

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) after 40 is a medical condition that, when treated, can provide you with renewed intimacy. Your body has undergone some significant changes since turning 40, both physically and psychologically, as well as some social benefits of being in the "mid-life" stage. As a result, your experience of ED is not unique; many other men also experience a decline in their sexual performance and/or desire at this age.

Did you know that approximately 40% of all men will experience some form of ED by age 40? And continue to experience increased numbers of ED cases during each subsequent decade.

Why Does ED Happen After 40?

As previously stated, many men in their 40's experience ED because of vascular problems related to the size of the blood vessels; as a result, for some men, ED may serve as an early indicator of more extensive cardiovascular issues.

There are many reasons for the decline in sexual arousal and performance; the primary contributors are:

• Physical Contributors - high blood pressure, high cholesterol; Diabetes; reduced Testosterone levels.

• Lifestyle Contributors - stress, inadequate sleep, smoking, sedentary lifestyle.

• Mental Contributions - performance anxiety, work stress, and relationship stressors are some of the factors creating the cycles that limit your ability to achieve physical arousal.

Ways to Get Back Your Energy After ED

To regain your vitality after suffering ED, you need to take a multi-faceted approach; below are steps you can take NOW:

1) Put Cardiovascular Health on Top of Your List: If it's good for your heart, chances are it will also be good for your sexual life as well. You should aim for 30 total minutes of exercise per day, with a concentration on aerobic activities and strength training that will enhance your circulation and blood flow.

2) Optimize Your Diet: The "Mediterranean Diet," which has abundant amounts of leafy greens, healthy fats (like olive oil), and lean proteins, has proven to be beneficial in terms of blood flow and decreasing your chances of developing ED. Processed sugars and excessive alcohol should be avoided as these types of food and drink will slow down the central nervous system.

3) Consult with a Professional: Whether it is a counselor, MD, therapist, or urologist, the bottom line is, stop suffering and go see someone. There are numerous options available through today's medical field, including PDE-5 inhibitors (like sildenafil or tadalafil) and TRT for low testosterone. A healthcare provider can help determine if an underlying condition (like heart disease or diabetes) is causing your issue.

4) Manage your Stress and Sleep. Chronic stress keeps you in a constant fight-or-flight mode, which ultimately hinders your ability to become aroused. You should also make it a point to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night; sleep is when the majority of testosterone is produced in the body.

Finding the Elusive Spark Again: Communication is Essential

While ED affects the individual experiencing it, it also definitely takes a toll on relationships. Because of the extreme anxiety men may experience about "failure" due to ED, many choose to completely avoid intimacy, resulting in their partners feeling rejected.

Be Open and Honest: Discuss with your partner that erectile dysfunction is simply a physical limitation (and not due to a lack of attraction to your partner).

Re-Define Intimacy: Try to concentrate on areas outside the vagina through what many couples call "outercourse" or alternative forms of intimacy (e.g., erotic massages, bonding, etc.) The added element of anxiety that partners feel due to having to "perform" is often removed, and allows the male to relax enough for the erection to emerge naturally.

In Summary

Reversing the effects of ED in midlife is about making lifestyle changes for long-term health, wellness, and emotional stability. By being proactive about it today, you'll enjoy a healthy, happy sex life for many years to come.