Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most important sexual dysfunction in men. By definition, erectile dysfunction is the inability to maintain the rigidity of the penis that does not allow to initiate or continue sexual intercourse (coitus). It can occur in men of all ages, regardless of young, middle age or advanced age. Although it is basically caused by some psychogenic or organic problems, the truth is this: In every erection problem, a more or less psychogenic factor is either at the core of the event or is added to the event later on. Therefore, the role of psychogenic factors in the rooting of the erection problem is quite large.
The problem of erection is of course not a vital health problem. However, it is a very important issue that disrupts psychosocial life, couple relationships and therefore quality of life. Studies show that half of men between the ages of 40 and 70 have erectile dysfunction. It is also reported that about 10% of the same age group has severe erection problems. With age, especially after the age of 60, the frequency and severity of erection problems increase significantly. In scientific studies conducted in our country, it has been determined that one out of every 3 men in the 40 to 70 age group has moderate to severe erection problems.
The first issue addressed in men with erectile dysfunction is undoubtedly whether the problem is of organic or psychogenic origin. Organic problem means that the disease is caused by a physical (vascular or nervous) disease. Generally, organic causes are considered more prominent in men over 40 years of age with ED complaints. Psychogenic erection problem (PsED) is the name given to erectile dysfunction that is not due to a physical disease, but only to psychological distress and lack of skill. An important part of erectile dysfunction, which usually occurs at young ages, is due to the psychogenic background. We generally think that the core problem may be psychogenic under the age of 40 and organic after the age of 40. However, the opposite cases are not rare and should always be kept in mind. Although there is an organic cause at the core of the problem, the psychological factors added to it (disappointment, hopelessness, hurting the sense of masculinity, etc.) cause the event to grow like a snowball. It should not be forgotten that it is a small stone particle that starts an avalanche, but it is the snowdrifts that create the real destruction.