Erectile dysfunction (ED) is not uncommon. In fact, in Canada, 40% of men at age 40 have struggled to some degree with erectile dysfunction, and by age 70, that percentage goes up to 70%. Meaning, as you age, your chances of developing ED increase 10% each decade. What is this meant to mean? You're not alone. 

‍

ED is hardly something to be embarrassed or frustrated about, as it's extremely common. As long as you take the necessary steps to address the issue, there are ways to manage ED and lead a happy and fulfilling sex life.

‍

There are a number of potential causes of ED, so it's important to speak with your doctor to determine the underlying cause, as the treatment for ED will differ depending on the cause. Some of the most common causes include diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, depression and anxiety, and certain medications.

‍

But could condoms play a role in ED? This is a tricky question, so let's get to the bottom of it.

‍

Condoms and Erectile Dysfunction

The short answer is maybe, but condoms do not cause long-lasting ED. The primary cause of ED is physiological in nature and can be attributed to a variety of factors, including age, health, lifestyle, and medications. 

‍

The physical use of condoms can sometimes be a factor in ED, but it is typically not the primary cause.

‍

However, it is possible that condoms can contribute to ED in some men. How? This is because condoms can reduce sensation and make it difficult to stay aroused and maintain an erection. Sensation plays a key role in arousal and can be diminished when condoms are used, leading to difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection, as well as difficulty experiencing orgasm.

‍

Some men may find it difficult to stay aroused if they are using condoms due to psychological factors, but typically condoms don't diminish enough sensation for there to be any difficulty feeling pleasure or arousal. Additionally, some men may develop a psychological aversion to condoms, which can lead to anxiety and performance anxiety. Performance anxiety can cause ED, as it can lead to difficulty maintaining an erection.

‍

Ultimately, condoms are an important tool for preventing pregnancy and STIs, so it is important to utilize them in the appropriate circumstances.

Anxiety: The Root of Many a Man's ED

Anxiety is often the root cause of erectile dysfunction for many men. Performance anxiety can cause men to become too focused on their performance, leading to a decrease in arousal and difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection. Stress can also lead to a decrease in hormones such as testosterone, which can lead to difficulty with arousal and ED. Furthermore, certain psychological conditions such as depression can lead to ED.

‍

It is important to note that anxiety can be caused by a variety of things, including a fear of failure, fear of intimacy, or even a fear of using condoms. This type of anxiety can lead to difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection, and can lead to ED.

‍

The parasympathetic nervous system acts as the body’s relaxation system and is responsible for helping the body to relax and achieve an erection. Unfortunately, anxiety can interfere with the body’s ability to relax, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. If anxiety is the root cause of ED, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional to help work through the underlying issues and address the psychological causes of ED.

‍

The Psychology of Condom Anxiety

Condom anxiety is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when a person is anxious or uncomfortable about using a condom. 

‍

In a survey that was conducted in 2014 and involved 479 heterosexual men aged between 18 and 24, it was found that condom-associated ED is a problem that most men experience at some point. 14% of participants reported losing their erection while putting on a condom, and 16% said they had difficulty maintaining an erection during sex.

‍

This anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, including worries about the sensation impact of condoms, worries about being judged for using them, or a lack of understanding about how to use them correctly.

‍

The good news is that condom anxiety is a manageable issue. It’s important to remember that condoms are an important tool for preventing pregnancy and STIs, and that using them correctly can help you stay safe and healthy.

‍

One way to reduce condom anxiety is to have an open, honest conversation with your partner about your concerns. If you’re worried about the sensation impact of condoms, try different types and brands to find the one that works best for you. Taking the time to find the right condom for you can help you feel more comfortable and confident with using condoms.

‍

Additionally, it can be helpful to practice using condoms with a partner or alone to get used to the sensation and to build your confidence. If you’re still feeling anxious, talking to a healthcare provider or therapist can also be a great way to work through the issue.

‍

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that condoms are an important tool for protecting your sexual health, and that with the right approach and preparation, you can reduce your anxiety around using them.

‍

The Most Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

If you suspect that condoms may not be the only cause of your ED, it’s important to consider other potential causes of ED. These can include physiological factors such as age, health conditions, lifestyle, and medications. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can also contribute to ED. Additionally, certain lifestyle choices such as drinking or smoking can also increase your risk for ED.

‍

If you are experiencing ED, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and to discuss potential treatment options.

‍

Age: As mentioned above, 40% of Canadian men by age 40 have experienced some form of ED. This increases to 70% of men by the age of 70. But why does age play such a role? As men age, their bodies produce less testosterone, which is an important hormone for sexual functioning. This decrease in testosterone can lead to decreased libido and ED.

‍

Health Conditions: Certain health conditions can also lead to ED. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can all contribute to ED. Additionally, neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease can also lead to ED.

‍

Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and lack of exercise can increase the risk of ED. Additionally, heavy drinking and smoking can also increase the risk of ED for men.

‍

Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications, can cause ED as a side effect. It is important to speak with your doctor about any medications that you are taking that may be contributing to your ED.

‍

Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can all affect sexual functioning and lead to ED. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of these psychological issues in order to determine the best treatment plan.

‍

How Can I Stay Erect With a Condom On?

If you are having difficulty staying erect with a condom on, there are a few things you can do:

• Make sure you are using the right size condom. If the condom is too tight, it can be uncomfortable, and if it's too loose, you may feel awkward about the fit, which can have psychological impacts like increased anxiety or lack of confidence.
• Make sure you are using the right type of lubricant with the condom's effectiveness.
• Take your time. Don't rush into sex; focus on foreplay and easier to stay erect.

‍

Take breaks if needed. If you feel yourself losing your erection, don't be afraid to take a break and focus on other activities. You can also try different positions that require less physical effort.

‍

• Try a penis pump. A penis pump is a device that you can use to help increase blood flow to the penis using a vacuum-like pressure. This can help you stay erect and increase sensation. Just be sure to put the condom on after you've used the pump, so it doesn't break the condom.
• Try a cock ring. A cock ring is a device that is worn around the base of the penis to help restrict blood flow and keep an erection firm. This can help keep you erect longer and make it easier to stay erect with a condom on.

‍

If none of these techniques work for you, talk to your Phoenix about medications or other treatments that may help. We're here to help you with men's health and erectile dysfunction issues.

‍

The Condom Conclusion

Condoms can certainly increase anxiety, which may contribute to erectile dysfunction. However, condoms don't really take away enough sensitivity for the barrier to be the problem. It's most likely that if you've got condom related ED, it's a psychological issue, rather than a physical one. If you're having difficulty getting and maintaining an erection while wearing condoms, try some of the tips listed above like practicing, focusing on pleasure, and using lube. If the anxiety persists, seek professional help.

‍