Erectile dysfunction (ED) is characterized by the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. As a man, this condition can significantly impact your quality of life.
It can also damage your self-esteem and affect your relationships and overall well-being. If you suspect that you’re having ED, your best bet is to see a professional who is trained to treat ED in Singapore.
A knowledgeable provider can help you tell for sure what could be causing your ED before suggesting any treatment. Now, while medications like phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are commonly prescribed to manage ED, they may not be effective for everyone.
This page will teach you the best next steps when your ED medications don’t work. But first;
What are the Common Underlying Causes of ED
ED can come as a surprise which explains why many people frequently ask; why am I all of a sudden getting ED? Here is what you need to know;
Erectile dysfunction is often a symptom of an underlying health condition rather than a standalone issue. So, you may all of a sudden get ED as a symptom of a health condition you didn’t know you had. Common physical causes of ED include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, hormonal imbalances, and neurological disorders.
However, there are also psychological factors. Common psychological factors often linked to ED include stress, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
During your ED treatment in Singapore, a knowledgeable provider will be keen to get to the root cause because treating only the symptoms with medications may not provide a long-term solution. Once they know the specific factors contributing to your ED your doctor will be able to develop a more personalized and effective treatment plan just for you.
For example, if your condition is primarily due to psychological issues, the most appropriate plan for your ED treatment in Singapore would be counseling or therapy instead of medication. Similarly, if your ED is caused by a medical condition like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, the key focus will be to manage these conditions.
So, When Are Medications Recommended for ED?
Medications, such as PDE5 inhibitors (including Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra), are often the first line of treatment for ED. These drugs enhance the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical that relaxes muscles in the penis and increases blood flow so it is easier to achieve and maintain an erection.
You may be recommended medications for ED if yours is caused by physical factors like poor blood flow or nerve damage. But, medications may not work for everyone.
Chances are there you may experience side effects, or the medications may be contraindicated due to other health conditions. What’s more, medications used for ED treatment in Singapore do not address psychological causes or more complex underlying medical conditions.
What to Do When Nothing Works for ED?
It can be disheartening when you try medications for your ED treatment in Singapore but nothing seems to work. Don’t give up yet. If medications do not effectively manage ED, there are several alternative treatments that you could use. Here are some of the most effective options for when medications don’t work for ED;
1. Penile Implants
Penile implants are a surgical option for men with severe ED who do not respond to other treatments. This procedure involves placing a device inside the penis to allow you to achieve an erection. Penile implants are available in two types; inflatable implants and malleable (semi-rigid) implants.
- Inflatable implants are devices that are filled with fluid to create an erection. They offer a natural appearance in both the flaccid and erect states and can be inflated or deflated as needed.
- Malleable (semi-rigid) implants are rods which keep the penis firm but bendable. They are simpler to use but may not appear as natural as inflatable implants.
Penile implants are generally considered when all other treatments have failed. And, they have high satisfaction rates among men and their partners.
But do keep in mind that surgery carries risks like infection and mechanical failure, for example. You will need to acknowledge and discuss these risks with your provider before proceeding.
2. Counseling and Psychological Therapy
For ED cases with a psychological component, counseling or therapy can be highly effective. Performance anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues can all contribute to ED.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), sex therapy, and couples counseling are common approaches to addressing these issues. You may need to work with a psychologist or counselor to help you and your partner address the psychological barriers to sexual function, improve communication, and reduce performance anxiety.
3. Vacuum Erection Device (VED)
A vacuum erection device (VED) is a non-invasive option that can help achieve an erection. Just as it sounds, this option for ED treatment in Singapore involves using vacuum pressure to increase blood flow to the penis.
The device consists of a plastic cylinder that is placed over the penis, a pump (manual or battery-operated), and a constriction ring placed around the base of the penis to maintain the erection after the vacuum is released. VEDs are a viable option if you prefer not to use medications or have contraindications for them. They may also be useful if your ED is due to physical causes like nerve damage, for example.
4. Penile Injections
Penile injections like alprostadil are another effective option for ED treatment in Singapore. These medications are injected directly into the base or side of the penis to induce an erection by widening blood vessels.
Penile injections are effective for many men, including those who do not respond to oral medications. The primary drawback of penile injections though is the discomfort and anxiety associated with the injection itself.
Also, there is a risk of a prolonged erection (priapism) and fibrosis (scarring) which you will need to acknowledge. However, with proper training and technique, you should find this treatment highly effective and satisfactory.
5. Exercise and Physical Activity
Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, has been shown to improve ED in some men. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, and also increases blood flow.
It can also reduce the risk factors associated with RED like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Physical activity not only helps with erectile function but also improves overall health and well-being.
6. Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle modifications can also significantly impact erectile function. Reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and improving diet can all contribute to better erectile function.
Smoking cessation, in particular, is crucial as smoking can damage blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis, contributing to ED. Managing stress can also be beneficial.
7. Medication Changes
Sometimes, ED can be a side effect of medications taken for other health conditions. For example, you may get it as a side effect of using medications for high blood pressure, depression, or anxiety.
In such cases, adjusting the medication or switching to a different drug can resolve ED. Please, consult with your provider before making any changes to medication though. They can help identify which drugs may be contributing to ED and suggest alternatives.
In Closing
If you’re struggling with ED and medications aren’t effective, consult with a medical professional who specializes in ED treatment in Singapore to explore other treatment options. There are multiple pathways to restoring sexual health and well-being, even when the first line of treatments does not provide the desired results. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment right now, engage a specialist right now at;
Dr. Ben Medical @ Tanjong Pagar | ED Treatment | STD Treatment Singapore
160 Robinson Road, #03-09,
SBF Center, Medical Suites,
Singapore 068914
+65 8881 2344
