In this time of lockdowns and heightened restrictions, maintaining healthy, intimate relationships is important. This helps relieve stress and keeps that feeling of connectedness with one’s partner.
There’s one factor that could put out the spark in intimate relationships that’s rarely talked about: erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s often caused by underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and low testosterone levels. And contrary to what many people might think, ED not only affects older men; it can affect younger men as well due to smoking and drinking.
Dr. Frederick Mendiola, a board-certified urologic surgeon with a subspecialty in minimally invasive urology and a special interest in sexual medicine, has brought to the Philippines a safe and non-invasive way to treat ED: GentlePro laser treatments.
GentlePro uses radial shockwaves to help develop new blood vessels and stimulate the area to be treated. Depending on the degree of ED, 5 to 8 treatments are needed to see a lasting improvement. This non-invasive treatment is virtually painless and has no downtime.
Dr. Mendiola also recommends the following lifestyle modifications:
- Get moving
“A sedentary lifestyle makes weight management more difficult, which is a proven contributor to ED. You can start by walking at least 30 minutes a day,” Dr. Mendiola said.
- Switch to a healthier diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish reduces the likelihood of having ED.
- Ditch the cigarettes
According to studies, men who smoke are twice as likely to develop ED than nonsmokers. Nicotine causes the blood vessels to constrict, which limits the amount of blood that flows to the organs.
- Monitor heart health
Hypertension, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol can damage the arteries, which prevents proper blood flow (thus causing ED).
ED is a common problem that is very treatable and should not be a cause for embarrassment. For a lot of men, initiating the first conversation about a very personal condition is the most difficult step. Know your options and have it treated as soon as possible by talking to a trusted urologist.
Schedule a consult with Dr. Mendiola by calling 0906-8844469. Message him on Facebook and Instagram (@docericmendiola).