Category: The link between sexual performance and mental health

  • “More Sex!” It’s What Doctors Should Prescribe

    “More Sex!” It’s What Doctors Should Prescribe

    More Sex

    Science Shows that Sex is Healthy for Him AND Her

    A study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology in 2018 found that women who had active sex lives were less likely to develop heart disease than those who were less sexually active. Additionally, a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 2015 showed that women who had regular sex were less likely to develop hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Another study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology in 2012 found that sexual activity was associated with higher levels of estrogen, which can improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

    And a recent large scale study of people over 40 years of age conducted in Japan showed that all-cause mortality and cancer mortality were significantly elevated among men who lacked sexual interest.

    When we visit the doctor, we often hear a lot more about the drawbacks than the health benefits of sex.

    Danish doctor and professor of sexology, Christian Graugaard, says that patients and doctors alike have it all wrong. He makes the case for the health benefits of sex and sexual health, advocating for doctors to spend more time considering the sex lives of their patients. For many adults, especially those in their later years, sexual well-being is important every aspect of an individual’s health.

    Loving sex is good for the head and the heart

    There are several reasons that partnered sex for older couples are beneficial for heart health.

    First, sexual activity is a form of exercise. During sexual intercourse as well as foreplay, both men and women experience stretching of muscles and tendons, flexion of joints, and hormone fluctuation which promotes cardiovascular fitness.

    Second, the intimacy built into a sexual relationship is a source of emotional and social support, which is a key component that defines life context and in turn shapes health.

    Third, partnered sexuality and satisfaction with it reduces exposure to stress, modify response to stress, and promote recovery from stress, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

    Dr. Graugaard quotes the World Health Organization (WHO) in his definition of sexual health. They say that sexual health as “a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality.” This definition suggests that sexuality “is closely linked to personal integrity, identity, body image, bonding, and social curiosity.”

    In January 2023 the results of a large scale study were published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine that showed that men with ED who used PDE-5i pills had fewer heart problems and live longer than non-users. And, the study found, the more of these pills men take the longer they live. The reason is likely that users benefit from regular sex in a positive feedback loop.

    Yes – that’s a lot of key factors in a person’s well being. Sexual health affects us mentally, emotionally, culturally, and (of course) physically. With so many important components, it is no wonder Dr. Graugaard is urging doctors to speak with their patients about this issue!

    Why is sexual health so critical for maturing adults?

    Sexual health is important for adults, but those dealing with other health issues should be particularly aware of this issue. According to Dr. Graugaard, a healthy sex life is proven to aid in the treatment and morale of chronically or critically ill patients.

    There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, sexual encounters can be a “refuge” from the stress of illness. Close physical relationships can also add meaningfulness to the life of patients who are otherwise suffering.

    His statements are backed by recent studies: In Italy, it was discovered that men with type 2 diabetes who had frequent sexual problems suffered more illness-related distress that their sexually healthy counterparts. According to Dr. Graugaard, “a fulfilling sexual life might reduce morbidity and perhaps even mortality of patients. Sadly, nearly two-thirds of the aforementioned diabetes patients reported that sexuality had not been addressed by any doctor within the past year.”

    Is the quality of sex important for health?

    Yes, particularly for women.

    Clinical studies show that multiple domains of relationship quality have stronger effects on women’s health—including immune system and cardiovascular function—than on men’s and that sexual quality is more important for women’s happiness and life satisfaction than for men’s.

    Sexual health is no small matter

    At FullMast, we wholeheartedly agree that sexual health is no small matter.

    In Dr. Graugaard’s article, he cites a population study from Holland which showed that 90% of 16 to 95 year olds considered their sex life important, very important, or extremely important. Undoubtedly, men and women in Canada have similar feelings about intimacy in their own lives. But what can they do if physiological barriers stand in the way?

    For men facing issues related to erectile dysfunction who want to enjoy the many health benefits of sex, we are here to help. If you would like a free consultation with an accredited doctor specializing in erectile dysfunction in Vancouver or Toronto, call 1-844-500-1177 or book your confidential appointment online today.

  • Satisfying sex. Which comes first confidence or performance?

    Satisfying sex. Which comes first confidence or performance?

    Satisfying sex

    When it comes to intimate relationships, confidence has always been a bit of an enigma. Just how important is high self-esteem in relationships? Does confidence come from a healthy sex life, or is it a necessary ingredient to get things moving in the first place? Is confidence sexy, or are sexy people confident?

    While questions may linger, one thing is certain: Confidence is a worthwhile goal for those looking to improve their relationships. Let’s take a look at what experts say about how self-image affects relationships, and what you can do to improve your confidence between the sheets.

    Yes, confidence is a big deal in the bedroom.

    Actually, it’s a big deal in all aspects of a healthy relationship. Studies show that women with low self-image are 19% less satisfied in their marriages. Additionally, people with high self-esteem are more likely to take emotional risks which are necessary for the health of a partnership.

    In the Hite Report, a landmark study of sexuality, one woman shared that  “What started me off into having [orgasms] was a great deal more confidence in myself which has been a steadily growing feature of the last several years, talking plainly about sex and the sex we were having with my husband and experimenting with different things to do in bed.” Other Hite Report participants agreed that increased confidence and communication helped to increase their sexual satisfaction.

    But the question still stands – how do you get that much-needed confidence in the first place? Here are a few tips from experts in the field.

    Get your head in the game.

    If body image concerns are creeping into your head during intimate moments, it might be worthwhile to flip the switch. Sex therapist Annie Gunn told Business Insider that focusing on the sensations in your body and the bond with your partner may help to dispel self-doubt during an encounter. In the same article, sexologist Kristie Overstreet adds that self-conscious lovers should “Remember that sex is supposed to be fun and not taken too seriously.”

    Get healthy.

    We’ve already written about the bevy of research about how exercise can improve your sex life. Besides helping with sexual performance and erectile dysfunction, regular workouts can also have a great effect on body image. The endorphins released from exercise don’t hurt, either!

    Give it time.

    Many women in the Hite report alluded to the sexual confidence that comes with age. According to an article published by Harvard Health, it takes many women until their 30s to gain confidence in the bedroom. When she reaches age 40 and older, orgasms can become more intense and body-comfort increases. Men can also shed preconceived notions about body image, erectile performance, and other issues as they age, allowing for a healthier sex life. As we’ve said before on this blog, the concept of hitting leaving a “sexual peak” behind as we age is far from the reality for many Canadians!

    Confidence is for everyone.

    Confidence is not something you are born with. It is built through time, a healthy lifestyle, and a good mindset. With the right steps and attitude, sexual confidence is attainable for anyone at any age.

    That said, if more serious issues are plaguing your sex life, calling for reinforcements may be your best option. Our clinics help Toronto and Vancouver men access medically sound, non-intrusive treatments for their erectile dysfunction. If ED is affecting your confidence and performance in the bedroom, call us at 1-877-500-1177 or schedule your free initial consultation online today.

  • Porn Can Contribute to Erectile Dysfunction

    Porn Can Contribute to Erectile Dysfunction

    Porn and Erectile Dysfunction

    It’s the conclusion that many articles, websites, and recent conversations have come to: When young men deal with ED, pornography is sometimes the culprit.

    As a medical clinic, the question we ask is always the same: What do the facts say? Does science have the answer to the question “Can porn really cause erectile dysfunction?”

    Let’s find out.

    How Much Do We Really Know About Erectile Dysfunction in Young Men?

    It’s true that erectile dysfunction is an issue for younger men. A 2013 study found that about 1 in 4 men experiencing ED are under the age of 40.

    Is this number an increase? Unfortunately, little data from previous generations exists to make a true comparison.

    Some earlier takes on this subject (such as a Kinsey study in 1948) suggest that ED used to be less common in young men, but these studies are rare and use methods which differ greatly from those we use today, making it hard to conclude one way or the other.

    While we do not know the extent of an “increase” in instances of ED, recent data shows that it is a prevalent issue for young men today. But could porn be the reason? Can porn really cause erectile dysfunction?

    How Does Pornography Affect the Brain?

    Studies have found that the reward centres of the brain respond actively to pornography. Individuals whose reward centres are particularly triggered by these images respond to pornography the same way a drug addict’s brain would respond to a substance.

    Some believe that frequent exposure to pornography trains the reward centres in the brain to respond only to increasingly graphic images which do not mimic real-life sexuality, making it difficult to become excited during intimate encounters.

    Not so fast, neurologist Dr. Simone Kühn notes in a 2013 Telegraph article about her study on the subject. At this point in the research “It’s not clear whether watching porn leads to brain changes or whether people born with certain brain types watch more porn.”

    More recent studies show that healthy young men with a porn addiction experience less ED while using porn than during sex with a partner. See this 2021 study  A web-based survey of men with “problematic” pornography consumption concluded that “prevalence of ED in young men is alarmingly high, and the results of this study suggest a significant association with problematic pornography consumption.”

    What Are Some Reasons For Erectile Dysfunction in Young Men?

    While the consumption of pornography has increased since the advent of the internet, other changes have also taken place in the last quarter century which could also affect male sexual health.

    Young people have seen a rise in instances of high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and other health problems associated with ED. Stress has also increased among young people, and attention spans are growing shorter. For young men experiencing erectile difficulties, these risk factors should all be considered by a doctor.

    What Can Young Men Do To Treat ED?

    Yes, the brain can be impacted by pornography. And yes, the brain is one of many factors considered when treating erectile dysfunction. But there is no conclusive evidence linking the two. While it may be worth considering for some individuals with certain brain types, every man is different. Potential causes for erectile dysfunction in young men vary greatly.

    Before running to a doctor for a quick-fix prescription or trying to self-diagnose the reasons for your ED, see a men’s health specialist for an evaluation. Doctors who specifically treat erectile dysfunction are experts in physiological and psychological risk factors and will take your whole health into consideration when creating a treatment plan.

    If you live close to Toronto and the GTA, FullMast Clinics are a great resource for any man dealing with ED. To get started, contact us online or call 1-844-500-1177.

  • Sex, Scams, and Science: Why You Deserve a Doc When Dealing with Erectile Dysfunction

    Sex, Scams, and Science: Why You Deserve a Doc When Dealing with Erectile Dysfunction

    Dealing with Erectile Dysfunction with help of Doctor

    Dealing with erectile dysfunction isn’t easy to talk about. Over-the-counter pills, online quick fixes, or even just ignoring it can seem easier than calling a men’s health clinic, especially if the challenge of getting and maintaining an erection is new to you.

    We know. We get it. But you and your partner deserve to know what’s going on with your body. A doctor who specializes in erectile dysfunction can decipher the real reasons your penis isn’t performing. And that doesn’t just make the process of finding the right treatment quicker and easier–it could also save your life.

    Erectile Dysfunction Can Be a Symptom of More Serious Problems

    An erection occurs when the arteries in your penis receive signals from the brain to let more blood flow in. This process involves a lot of important parts of your body including the circulatory system, the nervous system, your pelvic muscles, and even your brain.

    This means that when you experience challenges getting or maintaining an erection, the causes could involve many different and critical parts of your body.

    That matters to a doctor, and it should matter to you. It matters that erectile dysfunction could signal high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or even diabetes. It matters, too, that you have options for dealing with erectile dysfunction. There are a variety of treatments available which take those underlying issues into account.

    A specialist like Dr. Ron Mayer at Toronto men’s health clinic FullMast is trained to identify and treat the causes of erectile dysfunction. That’s good news not only for your sex life, but your well-being in general.

    Getting Help for Erectile Dysfunction is Easier Than You Think

    An erectile dysfunction specialist is just that: a specialist. Doctors at our men’s health clinic spend all day dealing with erectile dysfunction by talking to men and their partners and treating sexual health issues. That means they’re experts in not only treating ED, but in making sure people are comfortable with the process.

    Don’t know anything about erectile dysfunction? We will walk you through any questions you have. Don’t want to take pills? We have great treatments that don’t involve medication. Need support navigating erectile dysfunction with your partner? We know just the person to help.

    Going to a doctor for your erectile dysfunction not only helps you to improve your health, it opens up possibilities and resources for dealing with erectile dyfunction that you may not have even known existed before your visit.

    Oh…and it works.

    Alternatives to a visit to your doctor, like over-the-counter pills, don’t have a great track record. While they may work for some, success can be short-lived. That’s because these band-aid solutions don’t address the core health issues at play with your erectile dysfunction.

    Erectile dysfunction is a common issue, and seeking treatment from a specialist is the smartest way to address it. Your sex life, your body, and your health deserve a holistic, informed approach which only an erectile dysfunction specialist can provide.

    Schedule your consultation with the FullMast Men’s Health Clinic in Toronto or Vancouver, or call 1-844-500-1177 for more information.