WHAT IS
ERECTILE
DYSFUNCTION (ED)
ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IS MORE
COMMON THAN YOU MIGHT THINK1

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has difficulty getting or keeping an erection long enough for sexual satisfaction. For some, ED symptoms can occur just once in a while. For others, it may be a constant problem. Either way, you should know that you’re not alone. ED is a common condition affecting approximately one in three NZ men aged between 40–70 years.1

That doesn’t mean you have to accept ED as merely a part of the ageing process. It is a real medical condition that can be managed and treated, so you can take back the things that are important in your love life.2


What if I am experiencing ED?

Experiencing ED can be difficult on personal relationships. It’s hard for partners to understand why you may be withdrawing from physical contact, which can cause a spiral of self-doubt on both sides. They may feel you don’t love them, or find them attractive anymore. Frustration, hurt, and confusion can result from the loss of romance and personal connection that ED can cause.2

There are ways of treating and reducing your ED issues.

Ask your doctor or talk to a pharmacist to see if Vedafil® tablets are right for you.

WHAT
CAUSES
ED?

The first step to is to talk with your GP or Pharmacist. Even if you are embarrassed, remember, your healthcare professional has treated many men with ED before, so you’re not alone.

Male sexual arousal is a complex process that involves the brain, emotions, hormones, nerves, muscles and blood vessels. ED can result from a problem with any of these, and sometimes a combination of physical and psychological issues is the cause. In many cases, ED is caused by something physical. Common causes include.2,3

  • PHYSICAL CAUSES

    Heart disease, clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis), high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, metabolic syndrome — a condition involving increased blood pressure, high insulin levels, body fat around the waist and high cholesterol.

  • DISEASES

    Kidney, neurological or cardiovascular disease, diabetes may affect hormone circulation, blood flow or nerve function.

  • HORMONE IMBALANCES

    The thyroid, prolactin, and testosterone, can affect a man’s response to sexual stimulation. These imbalances can be the result of a tumour of the pituitary gland, kidney disease, liver disease, or treatment of prostate cancer.

  • SURGERY

    Surgery performed to treat diseases such as prostate and bladder cancer, often require the removal of nerves and tissues around the affected area which can lead to ED. Injuries to the pelvis, bladder, spinal cord or penis that require surgery may also lead to ED.

  • PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

    There are a number of treatments which can cause or contribute to erection difficulties. It would help if you discussed all current medicines you are taking, whether prescription or not, with your GP or pharmacist. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting your GP.

  • LIFESTYLE CHOICES

    Smoking, alcohol intake, or recreational drug use can damage blood vessels and/or restrict blood flow to the penis causing ED. Smoking, in particular, plays a significant role in causing ED in people with arteriosclerosis (narrowing/hardening of the arteries).

  • PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS

    Modern life can be full of deadlines, frustrations and demands. Stress is commonplace in the lives of most people, but when it reaches a certain threshold, it can start affecting mood, productivity, relationships, as well as general quality of life. When ED happens, it usually takes a man by surprise. You may then perpetuate the recurrence of ED by worrying about the experience occurring again. This can lead to ‘performance anxiety’, or a fear of sexual failure.

    Low self-esteem, lost vitality, or depression can affect a person physically and psychologically, which may be due to prior episodes of ED, or other issues unrelated to sexual performance.

  • REFERENCES
    1. Quilter et al. Male Sexual Function in New Zealand. A Population-Based-Cross-Sectional Survey of the Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction in men 40 – 70 years. J Sex Med; 2017; (14)7:1928-1936.
    2. DiMeo PJ Urol Nurs 2006;26(6):442-6.453, Quiz 447
    3. McMahon CG, Med J Aust 2019;210(10):469-476
    4. Vedafil Data Sheet June 2019
    5. Viagra Data Sheet

    *Ask your doctor if Vedafil is right for you and use strictly as directed. If symptom persists or you have side effects, see your healthcare professional. Vedafil is not a funded medicine, normal doctor charges and prescription fee will apply. Vedafil® is a Viatris company trade mark, Viatris Limited, Auckland. Copyright© 2022 Viatris Inc. All rights reserved.