Causes of Erectile Dysfunction During Andropause

As men age, there is a drop in hormone production similar to that experienced in female menopause. This condition is frequently referred to as male menopause, or andropause, and is just as real as the female version. One difference is that for women the change occurs more rapidly, while for men it happens slowly over a long period of time. One of the symptoms of andropause may include a decreased ability to get or keep an erection.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability of a man to develop or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Most men have trouble with erection at some point in life but the risk increases as men age and testosterone levels drop. This change in hormones affects many body systems including those that affect sexual functioning.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction during Andropause

Many of the causes of erectile dysfunction during male menopause are due to decreased levels of testosterone. These levels affect sexual functioning, energy, and mood. Other factors that can influence a man's ability to have an erection are health problems, many of which have increased risk of developing with age and around the time of onset of andropause symptoms.

Sexual functioning: The ability to perform sexually is affected by lower testosterone levels in different ways. One way is in lowered sperm production. Sperm production has been know to correlate with sexual desire in men. Lower sperm production equates to lower desire to have sex. Blood flow may be decreased in the body. Adequate blood flow to the penis is necessary to develop an erection.

Energy and mood: Low testosterone levels increase fatigue. Lower energy levels decrease sexual desire. Depression and anxiety are often seen in connection with andropause. Like semen production, sexual desire is also correlated to mood levels. When feeling depressed or anxious, it is more difficult to have an erection or even have a desire for sex. Inability to have an erection can increase feelings of depression or anxiety, causing a cycle that is hard to break.

Disease and medications: Certain health problems that increase with age may be related to erectile dysfunction. Many diseases and medications may affect blood flow or cause constricting of the blood vessels which affect the ability to develop an erection. Diseases such as diabetes may cause nerve damage which can also prevent a man from being able to get an erection.

In most cases, erectile dysfunction during andropause can be effectively treated by a physician.