Understanding Erectile Dysfunction - Diagnosis and Treatment
Alternative Therapies for Erectile dysfunction
Several alternative therapies may aid in erectile dysfunction. These include the following:
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Herbs and supplements
Acupuncture
This technique is an ancient Chinese method of healing that involves placing very fine, solid needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture stimulates the body's ability to resist or overcome illnesses and conditions by correcting imbalances. Acupuncture has helped some men with ED.
Aromatherapy
The scents employed in aromatherapy may relax the amorously inclined and put you in the mood. Some evidence shows aromatherapy may actually increase blood flow to the penis. No specific scent has been proven to affect all men, so try several to find one that works for you.
Herbs and Supplements
There's little evidence yet to support the use of herbs for treating erectile dysfunction. If you do choose to try herbs and supplements, inform your doctor and proceed with caution. Herbs and supplements that have been used for ED include the following:
- Ginkgo has been shown to increase blood flow, but there is no direct proof that this leads to regained erectile function for men.
- Ginseng and saw palmetto are two popular herbs whose claims regarding erectile function have yet to be well proven.
- The amino acid arginine is being studied and may show promise in some cases of erectile dysfunction, but more research is needed.
The herb yohimbe has also been purported to improve erectile dysfunction, but due to potential serious side effects, it cannot be sold over the counter in the United States. Although numerous studies of the prescription medicine yohimbine hydrochloride have been conducted, their results cannot be interpreted as evidence for the dietary supplement yohimbe. In its prescription drug form, benefits are uncertain.
Because so many herbs can interfere with medications, check with your doctor before starting any herbal therapy.
Therapies That May Harm You
The following therapies may damage your health:
- Cell therapy (which, in the case of erectile dysfunction, involves transferring cells from a pig's gonads into humans) is hardly likely to work, very expensive, and illegal in the U.S.
- Chelation therapy, a form of chemical purging supposedly good for improving vascular circulation, is unproven and may be dangerous.
- Magnetic field therapy may have some applications, but there is no evidence that it cures erectile dysfunction.
Most U.S. medical insurance polices -- unless there is a specific contractual exclusion -- cover treatment for erectile dysfunction that is considered medically necessary.
Finally, don't be embarrassed about discussing sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, with your doctor. Most doctors are prepared to talk about and help treat erectile problems or refer you to another doctor who can
