Erectile dysfunction (ED) may have once seemed like an issue exclusive to older men, but today, more and more young men are experiencing it too. ED is becoming increasingly common in men under 40, with recent studies suggesting that one in four men in this age group now experience some form of erectile dysfunction.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we understand how deeply ED can affect your confidence, relationships, and overall quality of life. That’s why we take a comprehensive, personalized approach to your sexual wellness. With cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care, we’re here to help you understand what’s causing ED and how to overcome it.

Why is ED on the rise?

Understanding why erectile dysfunction is increasing in younger men can help you recognize patterns in your own life. Let’s explore some of the most common contributing factors:

• Performance anxiety and stress: Performance anxiety is one of the leading causes of ED in young men. When you feel anxious about sex or whether you’ll perform well, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline. This reduces blood flow to the penis and prevents a firm erection. Even one bad experience can create a cycle of anxiety and avoidance.
  
• Mental health conditions and medications: Conditions like depression and anxiety can also affect your sexual desire and ability to get or maintain an erection over time. Ironically, the very medications used to treat these conditions—especially SSRIs—can also cause ED as a side effect, making it even harder to break the cycle.
  
• Lifestyle and substance use: Poor lifestyle habits can affect your vascular health and hormone levels. A diet high in processed foods, excessive alcohol intake, lack of exercise, or frequent cannabis use can all interfere with healthy sexual function. These choices can also contribute to low self-esteem, which may worsen the problem.
  
• Early exposure to pornography: Some studies suggest that frequent or early exposure to pornography can desensitize you to real-life intimacy. This can lead to unrealistic expectations or difficulty becoming aroused during actual sexual experiences, contributing to ED.
  
• Social media and self-image pressures: Comparing yourself to others online can trigger feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. This mental strain can manifest in the bedroom. Constant exposure to curated images and content may distort your perception of what’s “normal” or “expected” in a sexual relationship.
  
• The impact of COVID-19: Isolation, increased stress, and even the physiological effects of COVID-19 infection itself have been linked to a rise in ED. Many men also developed poor health habits during lockdowns, compounding the problem.

How to manage or treat ED?

Thankfully, ED is highly treatable. Whether your symptoms are caused by anxiety, lifestyle, or physical health conditions, there are several proven options to help you regain control of your sexual health. These range from lifestyle changes to cutting-edge ED treatments.

Lifestyle changes

• Improving your daily habits can make a powerful difference in your sexual function. Start with:
• Reducing stress and getting quality sleep
• Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet
• Exercising regularly to improve circulation
• Limiting alcohol and avoiding recreational drug use
• Reducing pornography consumption
• Managing anxiety or depression through therapy

Oral ED medications

Medications like Viagra (sildenafil) or Cialis (tadalafil) help increase blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get and maintain an erection. These medications are safe for most men when taken in low doses and can even be used for performance anxiety-related ED. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we ensure your dosage is tailored to your needs for safe, effective results.

TriMix injections

TriMix is a non-surgical, injectable ED treatment made from a custom blend of three medications. When injected into the base of the penis, it creates a strong and lasting erection without requiring sexual stimulation. It’s a good option if oral medications haven’t worked for you, if you want an alternative to pills, or if you want to induce immediate erections.

GAINSWave therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses gentle acoustic waves to stimulate blood flow and regenerate tissue in the penis. GAINSWave therapy helps treat the root causes of ED by promoting new blood vessel growth and breaking down microplaque. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a long-term solution without medication or injections.

P-Shot

The Priapus Shot, or P-Shot, uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from your blood to stimulate natural tissue growth and enhance blood flow in the penis. This regenerative treatment improves erection quality, sensitivity, and even penile size for some men.

Testosterone therapy

If your ED is related to low testosterone, hormone replacement therapy may be the right option. Symptoms like low libido, fatigue, and mood swings often accompany low testosterone levels. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we test your hormone levels and create a personalized plan to restore your hormonal balance safely and effectively.

Erectile dysfunction might be more common than ever, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept it as your new normal. With the right care, ED can be treated—often completely reversed. Schedule a consultation at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine. We offer a full range of cutting-edge treatments and support to help you regain confidence and enjoy a fulfilling sex life again.