Living with Erectile Dysfunction

Men with erectile dysfunction tend to feel guilty, alone, unsatisfied and unhappy. They are afraid to lose their partner or they find it difficult to make personal relationships. Doubt caused by looking for a reason or meaning behind the dysfunction can be avoided if a personal interaction between the doctor, patient and family is established right from the outset. This will help patients acquire knowledge and manage the problem.

Individuals who are conscious of the problem and play an active role in overcoming the dysfunction, which they realise depends largely on themselves, will have a better response. Commitment is required to develop healthy lifestyle habits and actively participate in addressing the problem.

While the healthcare professionals, considering the sensitive nature of these cases, will combine their academic and clinical training with more humane and ethical aspects. They will also take into account each patient's cultural, social, moral and economic concerns when determining the most appropriate care.

These patients need to express their feelings and emotions, as does any other group, and so they value communication, sympathy, privacy and confidentiality. In this respect, an empathetic attitude helps the patient feel dignified and accept their situation. This environment encourages the patient to discuss, discern, be self-critical, analyse problems, etc., and to eventually adopt a collaborative attitude with the healthcare team.

This approach seeks to involve the patient throughout the process by making them participate in the treatment decision and follow the therapeutic regimen. Patients are offered realistic expectations and this helps them manage any negative emotions. 

It is the medical team's responsibility to advise, guide and provide support during the entire therapeutic process. All of this means patients can develop independence, self-care, cooperation, responsibility and participate throughout the process.