In December, 2018, the ED Treatment Information Center completed a detailed survey on the impact of Erectile Dysfunction on the partners of men with ED. The results of that survey are now available for download.
Abstract
A survey of 129 adult partners of men with erectile dysfunction found high levels of relationship stress and a general lack of communication.
A significant majority of respondents:
- Experienced some impact or a major impact on their confidence, self-esteem, overall happiness, and feelings about their relationship.
- Were more open than their partners in talking and ED, exploring alternate means of sexual satisfaction, and getting relationship help from a counselor, therapist, or intimacy coach.
- Were very interested in information about ED causes and treatments, as well as a directory of doctors and counselors who treat ED and related problems.
- Were very interested in ways to improve their sex lives.
Methodology
A survey instrument consisting of 21 questions was developed and presented on an online survey platform[1]. Participants were recruited for the survey through posts on online media[2]. A total of 152 participants began the survey, but 23either (1) did not have a partner suffering from ED, or (2) did not complete the survey. These 23 responses were discarded.
Conclusions
Erectile dysfunction is generally not taken seriously in our society. In fact, it is often the subject of jokes.
This study shows that ED has a profound negative impact on the partners of men with ED, including their confidence, self-esteem, and general happiness.
Because of feelings of embarrassment and shame, men are often uncomfortable talking about their condition or seeking help. This often compounds the emotional issues faced by their partners.
Partners are very interested in solutions to their problems, including information on treatments, and support services. In their own opinions, partners are more comfortable than men with ED in discussing the problem and seeking help.
The highest level of interest among partners (63.5% Very Interested) was for improving their sex lives. (This suggests a strong opportunity for intimacy coaches and counselors.)
To address this need, we’ve just posted a new article, A Great Sex Life with Erectile Dysfunction.
Find out more about getting emotional help and support for you and your partner.
Download the Complete Paper
Related Study
Comprehensive Study on the Impact of Erectile Dysfunction
Published: March 30, 2018
A survey of 597 adult men suffering from erectile dysfunction found high levels of stress, dissatisfaction with medical care and treatment options, and mental health issues:
edtreatment.info/ed-impact-study
[1] SurveyMonkey.com
[2] EDtreatment.info, FaceBook.com, FrankTalk.org, LinkedIn.com, SupportGroups.com, Patient.info, ProstateCancerInfoLink.ning.com, Reddit.com
