Can Sex Addiction Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Are you or someone you know struggling with sex addiction? If so, you’re not alone. Sex addiction affects thousands of people every day, both physically and mentally. It is something that is more common than you’d think, even if it’s not spoken of often.

Since sexual addiction is not spoken about often, many addicts and their families have a lot of questions regarding the disease and how best to fight it. They also question what kind of side effects it may have. For example, many people wonder if sex addiction can cause erectile dysfunction in male addicts.

Is it true? Does sex addiction cause erectile dysfunction? Keep reading below to find out!

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a diagnosable medical condition. It’s main symptom is the male’s inability to get or keep an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Men with erectile dysfunction report that it causes stress and strain on their relationships and can affect their self confidence. Treatment requires medical intervention or psychological evaluation.

What causes it?

There are many causes of erectile dysfunction, both physically and psychologically. Some physical causes include:

Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes
Injury
Increased age
Drug and alcohol abuse
Smoking

Psychologically, erectile dysfunction can also be caused by stress, anxiety, or other mental disorders.

Can sex addiction cause erectile dysfunction?

There is no proof that sex addiction can directly cause erectile dysfunction. However, there have been plenty of studies on the topic. For example, WebMD notes one such study that surveyed hundreds of men who visited a doctor for erectile issues. While the study didn’t find much correlation, it did show a relationship between porn addiction and overall sexual dysfunction.

The reason why some sexual addicts report erectile dysfunction may be due to the reward system in our brains. Sexual behavior gives us a “reward” that is similar to the feeling addicts get after enjoying their high.

Therefore, sex addicts seek to enjoy that reward more often. If a sex addict is known to interact with porn or sexual partners continuously, well beyond a normal level, then overtime the ability to achieve arousal or orgasm can lessen. In other words, the sexual addict’s tolerance to the stimulation of sex and porn can increase and make it difficult for them to achieve an erection. There is no proof that addiction causes erectile dysfunction directly, though.

Seek treatment

Do you want to learn more about sexual addiction and related medical conditions? If so, contact us at Coeur d’Alene Counseling. We have been offering sexual addiction counseling to the people of North Idaho for many years. We are trained professionals in the field and can help you through your addiction with individual counseling, group therapy, and more.

Don’t struggle through your addiction alone – seek recovery with us today!

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