Affecting roughly 50% of men aged 40 to 70, Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is more common than you might think.
Yet, many hesitate to seek treatment due to feelings of shame or self-consciousness. This ongoing struggle to achieve or maintain an erection can have a significant impact on mental health, self-esteem, and relationships.
The good news is, ED is treatable and reversible at any age.
If conventional treatments haven’t worked or you’re seeking a natural approach to improve not just sexual health, but also fertility and overall vitality, AcuMedic Specialist Men’s Health Clinic is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, we focus on addressing your physical, emotional, and mental health needs, including reproductive concerns.
Come visit us or get free online health advice.
Let’s take the first step towards better health together.
If you would like a broader introduction to our treatment approach to sexual health then download our free guide to Supercharged Sex.
How Can We Help?
Chinese Medicine has a proven track record in successfully addressing male reproductive health issues and offers a powerful, natural solution for low sex drive and erectile dysfunction, whether used on its own or alongside conventional treatments. By focusing on the underlying cause of the condition, Chinese Medicine can promote lasting improvements without the unwanted side effects that often accompany traditional medications.
Although research into Chinese Medicine for ED is still in its early stages, initial studies are promising. These findings suggest that Chinese Medicine can significantly improve erectile function and restore sexual health, especially when ED is linked to stress or emotional factors, rather than physical or medical causes.
Chinese Medicine may stimulate hormone release and activate nitric oxide—a compound that relaxes the smooth muscles of the penis during arousal. This process enhances blood flow, improving the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. In addition, Chinese Medicine can help to:
- Regulate testosterone levels
- Lower cholesterol
- Boost heart health
- Relieve stress and anxiety
All of these factors play a crucial role in erectile dysfunction.
With a focus on both symptom relief and addressing the root cause, Chinese Medicine offers a path to long-term improvements in sexual health.
How Quickly Will You See Results?
For optimal results, we typically recommend a course of 5 acupuncture sessions combined with daily herbal formulas over 3 weeks. However, many patients notice improvements after just one or two sessions.
The number of treatments required depends on the severity of your condition and your response to the therapy. Your Chinese Medicine physician will assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure maximum benefit.
Since Chinese Medicine focuses on restoring balance to your body and promoting long-term sexual health, by the end of your treatment plan, you should be able to achieve unassisted erections without relying on conventional medications.
About ED
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to get or keep an erection long enough for satisfactory intercourse.
Almost every man struggles with getting or maintaining an erection now and then. It’s often just a result of the stresses of modern life and usually isn’t a cause for concern.
Yet, if it’s happening 50% of the time or more, it may be a sign of underlying health issues that need attention.
ED can arise from both physical and psychological causes.
Physical Causes
Any condition that disrupts blood flow to the penis can lead to ED.
Common culprits include:
- Cardiovascular and vascular diseases: Blocked arteries, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis can restrict blood flow, making erections difficult to achieve.
- Neurological disorders: Conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s can damage the nerves involved in sexual function.
- Trauma and injury.
- Surgery: Operations for prostate, bladder, or colon cancer may be contributing factors.
- Chronic illnesses: Diabetes, kidney disease, and obesity are often linked to ED.
Certain medications, including those for high blood pressure, antihistamines, antidepressants, and tranquillisers, can also cause ED. In many cases, poor lifestyle and dietary choices play a significant role, and making simple changes can have a big impact.
Psychological Causes
Psychological factors often follow physical causes, as anxiety, stress, or relationship insecurities can make ED worse. In many cases, however, psychological issues like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress are the primary triggers.
This is known as Psychological ED, and it’s more common than you might think.
The good news? ED can be addressed at any age, with both conventional and natural solutions available. Don’t hesitate to consult your doctor to rule out other health conditions and find the treatment that’s right for you.
Western Medicine View
When it comes to treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED), Western medicine typically follows a step-by-step approach, starting with the least invasive methods and progressing to more invasive options as needed.
The first step in ED treatment involves eliminating harmful drugs that may be contributing to the issue. This is followed by addressing underlying psychological factors, such as stress or anxiety, through psychotherapy and behavioural modifications.
The next stage includes non-invasive treatments like vacuum devices, oral medications, and locally injected drugs. If these methods aren’t effective, surgically implanted devices or procedures to address veins or arteries may be considered, although these are rare cases.
PDE-5 Inhibitors
For many men, PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra®, Levitra®, and Cialis® are the first-line treatment. These oral medications are taken about an hour before intercourse and work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide—a compound that relaxes smooth muscles in the penis and dilates blood vessels to increase blood flow.
PDE-5 inhibitors enhance the body’s natural response to sexual stimulation but do not trigger an automatic erection, unlike injection drugs. Approved by the FDA in 1998, they have helped many men regain sexual function.
Other oral medications such as yohimbine hydrochloride, dopamine and serotonin agonists, and trazodone have been claimed to help, but scientific evidence on their effectiveness remains limited.
Pros and Cons
However, while PDE-5 inhibitors are effective for some, they may not work for everyone and should always be used under medical supervision. In fact, some medications can interact negatively with other drugs, particularly those used to treat heart conditions or blood pressure.
Additionally, drug therapy can cause side effects such as headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, muscle pain, and upset stomach. In rare cases, medications can cause priapism—a painful, prolonged erection lasting over four hours, which requires immediate medical attention.
Injections and Non-Surgical Options
If these medications aren’t effective, other non-surgical options, like vacuum devices and injections, or even surgical options, may be considered.
For some men, injections into the penis can trigger an erection by increasing blood flow. Commonly used injection drugs include papaverine hydrochloride, phentolamine, and alprostadil (Caverject). While effective for many, these treatments can lead to side effects such as priapism (a persistent erection) and scarring.
Additionally, nitroglycerin, a muscle relaxant, is sometimes applied to the surface of the penis to enhance erections. A system called MUSE involves inserting a pellet of alprostadil into the urethra, which leads to an erection within 8 to 10 minutes. Common side effects include aching in the penis, testicles, and perineum, as well as warmth, burning sensations, and minor bleeding in the urethra.
Behavioural Therapy
Psychotherapy and behavioural therapy are often recommended alongside medical treatments, especially if ED has psychological roots, such as depression, anxiety, or performance-related fears. For psychologically-based ED, experts often recommend techniques that reduce anxiety, including counselling therapy aimed at addressing performance anxiety. Partners can also play a key role by helping to foster intimacy and gradually build sexual stimulation, which can be effective in alleviating the psychological barriers contributing to ED.
An integrated approach that combines conventional treatments with Chinese Medicine can be a powerful way to enhance results. This combination offers the potential to restore optimal sexual health while reducing the uncomfortable side effects associated with standard therapies.
Always consult your doctor to explore the most suitable treatment options for your specific needs.
Chinese Medicine View
Chinese Medicine recognises the powerful connection between the mind and body, understanding how physical, lifestyle, and emotional factors deeply influence overall health. This is especially evident in conditions like Erectile Dysfunction (ED), where both the body and mind play a role in the disorder.
Key Imbalances Leading to ED
In Chinese Medicine, ED is often caused by imbalances in the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood—essential elements for healthy sexual function.
The main causes include:
Liver Qi Stagnation
The Liver ensures the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. When Liver Qi becomes blocked, it leads to emotional stress, frustration, and anger, which directly affect sexual performance. Stagnant Liver Qi also disrupts blood circulation, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are used to clear the stagnation, improve circulation, and relieve stress, helping restore sexual health.
Blood Stagnation
Blood stagnation occurs when blood flow is blocked, limiting circulation to the penis and other vital organs. This often results in difficulties with erections. In Chinese Medicine, improving blood flow is critical, and acupuncture combined with herbs promotes the free flow of blood, helping to resolve stagnation and support erectile function.
Kidney Qi Deficiency
The Kidney in Chinese Medicine is the source of vitality and sexual function, storing the essential energy (Jing) needed for reproduction. A deficiency in Kidney Qi is one of the most common causes of ED, weakening both energy levels and circulation. This can be worsened by stress, poor lifestyle choices, smoking, alcohol, and ageing. Chinese Medicine strengthens the Kidney system, restores vital energy, and improves circulation to enhance sexual performance.
Chinese Medicine tailors treatments to each individual, never offering a one-size-fits-all approach.
By addressing the root causes of ED, both physical and emotional, treatments are customised to restore balance and vitality. A combination of acupuncture and herbal therapy targets specific imbalances, ensuring a holistic, personalised solution that promotes long-term sexual health and well-being.
Lifestyle Advice
While it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor if ED persists, there are key lifestyle changes you can start making today to support your sexual health and enhance any ongoing treatments.
Here’s how to get back on track:
Limit or avoid alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs
While they may seem to help you relax, these substances only worsen ED by interfering with your body’s natural functions. Cutting back can dramatically improve your sexual health.
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Regular exercise boosts circulation, balances hormones, and increases testosterone levels. Losing excess fat and building muscle improves sexual health and overall vitality.
Prioritise your mental and emotional well-being
ED affects more than just the body—it impacts your emotions too. Open, honest conversations with your partner can reduce anxiety and strengthen your connection. Understanding each other’s health issues fosters empathy and mutual care.
Reduce stress
Stress is a major factor in ED. Make time for relaxation through exercise, meditation, or mindfulness. A balanced, stress-free lifestyle will boost your sexual health and overall performance.
Get adequate sleep
Quality sleep is essential for sexual function. Lack of sleep can lower energy, disrupt hormones, and worsen ED. Prioritising rest supports overall well-being and sexual vitality.
These lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in improving ED and enhancing your overall health. If you’d like more tailored advice or to have a confidential chat, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit our Clinic.
For a deeper dive into our approach to sexual health, download our free Supercharged Sex guide.
+ *CLINICAL TRIALS
Aydin S et al. Acupuncture and hypnotic suggestions in the treatment of non-organic male sexual dysfunction. Scandinavian Journal of Urology and Nephrology, 1997, 31(3):271-274.
Shui HD. [Acupuncture treatment of defective ejaculation.] Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, 1986, 6(1):19 [in Chinese].
BOOK APPOINTMENT