How often have we heard people close to us discuss their sexual problems with us? It is mostly about them boasting about their sexual prowess or their bedroom antics, but never once about their shortcomings.
If there is any discussion then it is always about bringing the partner down. Not just men, but women indulge in it too, and it is more often than not a way to malign the other person.
Image credit: Shubh Mangal Saavdhan)
Using someone’s Erectile Dysfunction as a diss is the height of insensitivity
“Uska toh khada he nahi hota (He doesn’t even get a boner)”
“It lasted for like 5 minutes, this was shorter than my previous relationship”
Phrases like these are thrown around casually because we don’t see Erectile Dysfunction as a medical disorder but as sexual incompetence.
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A study had concluded that India is “the impotence capital of the world”. While the large population and multiple children households might make you question it, the high prevalence of lifestyle diseases is making it harder for our youth to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The taboo surrounding Erectile Dysfunction must be addressed
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve and/or maintain a penile erection which leads to unsatisfactory sexual intercourse. Since it is taboo, people shy away from seeking professional help.
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A latest survey conducted by Pfizer Upjohn aimed at scaling people’s knowledge of Erectile Dysfunction, its treatment, and the factors that influence treatment. The survey included 1042 men and women, and 307 urologists, andrologists, sexologists, and consulting physicians.
According to the survey, 82% of women said that they would ask their partners to visit a doctor to get the right treatment for ED, instead of talking to friends or relying on home remedies. At the end of the ED is a treatable condition, except in certain cases that can be treated.
Women’s role in ensuring the taboo around Erectile Dysfunction is put to rest
Those who care will always look out for you. We have heard this many times, but what if those who are close to you do not have the right knowledge on how to deal with certain issues? Tackling the stigma around ED begins with awareness.
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Some interesting facts that came up from the survey gives us insight into the mind of the everyday citizen and their awareness:
1. 53% of men are not aware of ED, while 78% of women are aware of it
2. 35% of men and 47% of women think that stress is the major catalyst for ED
3. 56% of men would like to discuss ED with their partners to fix their relationship
4. 28% of women might consider separation if their partner does not take any corrective measures
5. 61% of men would consult the doctor and get treated by medication prescribed by the doctor
6. 42% of men are willing to substitute medicines prescribed by their doctor with a cheaper option or opt for what their pharmacist suggests
7. 21% of women are not sure if their partners satisfy them physically
8. 70% of men believe that they can sexually satisfy their partners
9. 87% of men believe sexual intimacy is very much required in a relationship
It is clear that one needs to share their problem with someone, even if it is not their partner.
Doctors say that the treatment also has a lot to do with a partner’s support
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According to the Pfizer Upjohn survey, 96% of doctors agreed that partners play a significant role in the success or failure of the man’s ED treatment. They say that it may also influence decisions regarding treatment and even its continuation.
Creating a space for discussing and sharing will aid in the treatment. This finding is also in line with other global studies, conducted over the years, which suggested that 34% of men with ED would be willing to visit a doctor if their partners asked them to do so.
While it is important to have an understanding partner to talk to about issues as intimate as erectile dysfunction, it is equally important, if not more, for men to seek medical help and support in such cases. It is time we have healthy conversations surrounding sexual health and put an end to taboos that have plagued us all along.
Lead: Shubh Mangal Saavdhan
