No relationship remains effortless for a lifetime, and for some, erectile dysfunction can be a source of prolonged difficulty. Embarrassment, a decline in intimacy, and a lack of self-confidence can all arise from ED, and couples may not know how to approach this sensitive topic. Depending on the cause, erectile dysfunction may respond well to medical intervention; however, did you know that couples therapy can also make a significant difference?
Therapy can help couples maintain their bond through this difficult time. It can sometimes address underlying challenges contributing to the dysfunction and restore an intimate connection. From carefully selecting the words you use to describe your feelings surrounding ED to going on an exciting excursion together, your therapist can recommend numerous approaches to conquer those hard nights together.
Comprehending Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a condition in which a man has difficulty achieving or sustaining an erection. This may result in him changing his patterns of intimacy, as those who are experiencing ED often struggle to participate in satisfying sexual connections.
Some of the most common difficulties that couples report when a partner is struggling with dysfunction include:
- Prolonged foreplay that leads to performance anxiety, worsening the problem
- A trend toward pornography use
- An inability to participate in sexual encounters for more than a minute or two, leaving the other partner with unmet needs
- Pulling away emotionally
Erectile dysfunction can cause a significant disruption in even happy couples’ intimacy patterns. Thankfully, therapy has plenty to offer.
How to Conquer ED as a Team
While only one person is experiencing the physical elements of ED, both partners can help to address the problem. Couples therapy can help by introducing strategies for long-term success.
Choose Your Words Carefully
For many couples, the partner who does not have ED often has one immediate thought: to soothe their companion. While this effort is rooted in love and care, choosing your words carefully during this time is essential.
For example, a person’s first response may be to minimize the problem. “It’s all right; I haven’t been very interested in sex anyway!”
While this may function as an attempt to reduce the pressure, it can lead to the other partner feeling unwanted or unloved. Couples therapy can help you and your partner find the right words to support each other without hurting the other person, even if unintentionally.
Try Different Intimacy
Intimate connection can be found from more than just sexual contact. Therapists can help couples find intimacy in other ways, which takes creativity and practice. For example, it may take time for two people to rekindle the intimacy of gentle touch, hugs, or even sitting next to each other. Hold hands, kiss, and lean on each other for support. One or both people may feel that such contact is pointless if it does not result in sex, but these acts are the cornerstone of connection. Therapists can even help couples learn how to do this on their own; this therapeutic technique is called sensate therapy.
Enjoy Good Meals
Erectile dysfunction may have causes outside the control of the individual (such as physical damage from surgery, prostate issues, and more); however, smart choices can lessen the impact. Eating more flavonoids and whole foods has been associated with a decrease in the severity of erectile dysfunction symptoms.
Stay Active
In the same vein, staying active can help the body more successfully regulate blood pressure, an essential function for maintaining an erection. Studies show that getting up and moving can tone muscle, especially in the pelvic floor, leading to improved sexual performance.
Rekindle the Spark With a Fun & Romantic Getaway
As couples lose their intimate connection due to ED, they may spend less time together doing things they love. One of the most effective ways to help ease the symptoms of ED is to get out and go on a fun rendezvous together. Going somewhere new can reinvigorate the brain’s dopamine (reward) system, producing feelings of happiness and pleasure. Doing this with a partner can help rekindle the spark of newness and excitement, nurturing greater connection and attraction. Your therapist can offer ideas and help you plan how to build intimacy organically.
Schedule Your Couples Therapy Appointment Today
Treating erectile dysfunction successfully often involves a combination of addressing physical symptoms, rebuilding connection, and learning how to think about the problem in an actionable way. A couples therapist can help you recover your intimacy as you work to overcome the symptoms of ED. Contact Village Counseling to schedule a session and see how you and your partner can conquer hard nights by rekindling your bond.